Where Does Ayer's Water Come From?
Water Source
Ayer Water Department groundwater wells and surface water
Ayer draws its water from local groundwater wells and the Grove Pond surface water supply. The town is adjacent to the former Fort Devens military installation, now partially redeveloped as Devens. The military's historical use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam has created significant groundwater contamination affecting Ayer's water supply.
What's in Ayer's Water?
Based on water quality reports, testing data, and environmental assessments, these are the contaminants of concern for Ayer residents:
PFAS ("Forever Chemicals")
Status: CONTAMINATION — Fort Devens plume
Fort Devens' decades of AFFF firefighting foam use has created extensive PFAS contamination in the groundwater beneath and surrounding the former base. Multiple Ayer water supply wells have been affected, requiring shutdown or treatment.
PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate)
Status: Exceeded EPA limits
PFOS from military operations has been found at levels significantly above the new EPA MCL of 4 ppt. This is the primary PFAS contaminant from AFFF firefighting foam.
TCE (Trichloroethylene)
Status: Historical — Industrial solvent
TCE, an industrial solvent used in military maintenance operations, has been detected in Fort Devens area groundwater. This known carcinogen adds to the complex contamination picture.
Lead
Status: Risk in older homes
Ayer's historic town center has housing stock from the 1800s with potential lead plumbing. The town is conducting its lead service line inventory.
Health Risks for Ayer Residents
According to the EPA and Environmental Working Group (EWG), prolonged exposure to contaminants found in Ayer's water may increase risk of:
- • Cancer: PFAS and TCE are both linked to multiple cancer types. Ayer and Devens communities have raised concerns about elevated cancer rates near the former base
- • Immune System: PFAS suppress immune function, reducing vaccine effectiveness and disease resistance
- • Liver & Kidney: Both PFAS and TCE are toxic to the liver and kidneys, the body's primary filtration organs
- • Reproductive Health: PFAS exposure is linked to reduced fertility, thyroid problems, and developmental delays in children
📍 Ayer Local Tip
Ayer residents — the Fort Devens PFAS contamination is one of the most significant military contamination sites in Massachusetts. If you live in the Sandy Pond Road area or near the Devens boundary, your groundwater exposure risk is highest. The town has been fighting for military cleanup funding. In the meantime, a home RO system is your best personal defense. Get your well tested if you're on private water.
The Solution: Reverse Osmosis Filtration
Standard pitcher filters (like Brita) are not effective at removing PFAS or most contaminants found in Ayer's water. Water quality experts recommend a Reverse Osmosis (RO) system that can remove up to 99% of dissolved contaminants.
Why RO Works for Ayer Water:
- ✓ Removes 99%+ of PFAS, PFOS, TCE
- ✓ Uses semi-permeable membrane to filter at molecular level
- ✓ Fits under your kitchen sink — no major renovation needed
- ✓ Provides clean drinking and cooking water on demand
- ✓ NSF-certified systems are independently tested and verified
Top Recommended RO Systems for Ayer
APEC ROES-50
A reliable, no-frills workhorse — perfect for Ayer families on a budget.
- • 5-Stage filtration system
- • Removes up to 99% of contaminants including PFAS
- • Industry-standard parts (easy, affordable replacements)
- • Excellent long-term track record with thousands of reviews
iSpring RCC7AK
Best for taste — adds healthy minerals back after filtering Ayer's water.
- • 6-Stage with alkaline remineralization
- • Water tastes like natural spring water
- • See-through housing shows filter condition
- • Top-rated by Ayer area homeowners
Waterdrop G3P800
The modern, space-saving tankless choice for Ayer homes.
- • Tankless design saves cabinet space
- • 800 GPD flow rate (fills a cup in seconds)
- • Smart faucet displays real-time water quality
- • Easy twist-and-pull filter changes — no plumber needed
Ready to Install?
Step-by-step DIY installation guide — works for any Ayer home
View Installation Guide →Frequently Asked Questions — Ayer Water
Is Ayer MA water safe to drink?
Ayer has been significantly impacted by PFAS contamination from Fort Devens. While the town has installed treatment and developed new water sources, home filtration is strongly recommended. The contamination is extensive and ongoing.
What happened at Fort Devens?
Fort Devens was an active military installation from 1917 to 1996. Decades of AFFF firefighting foam use, industrial operations, and other military activities contaminated the groundwater with PFAS, TCE, and other chemicals. The contamination plume affects Ayer's water supply.
Is the military cleaning up Fort Devens contamination?
The Army has conducted environmental investigations and some remediation, but the scope of contamination is massive. PFAS cleanup is particularly challenging because these chemicals don't break down naturally. Full remediation will take decades.
What water filter removes PFAS and TCE?
A reverse osmosis system removes both PFAS (95-99%) and TCE (97-99%). For Ayer residents dealing with military contamination, RO is the most effective single home treatment technology. It's a necessary investment.
Sources
- • Ayer Water Department Annual Water Quality Report (2024)
- • EPA Superfund Investigation — Fort Devens
- • Massachusetts DEP PFAS Response Program
- • Army Environmental Command — Devens Environmental Reports
- • Environmental Working Group (EWG) Tap Water Database