The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) is calling on the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to strengthen a proposed stormwater permit for Richmond International Airport by establishing enforceable targets for reducing PFAS discharges.

According to CBF, the draft Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit requires the airport to monitor PFAS and develop a pollutant minimization plan but does not include limits or measurable reduction goals for the chemicals. The organization argues that without defined performance targets, the plan lacks accountability.

PFAS contamination at the airport has been linked to the historic use of firefighting foam during training exercises. CBF noted that PFAS has been detected in White Oak Swamp, a tributary of the Chickahominy River, as well as in nearby private drinking water wells. Virginia has also issued a fish consumption advisory for PFAS downstream of the airport.

In comments submitted to DEQ, CBF said the final permit should include clear PFAS reduction targets and provide additional opportunities for public input on the airport's pollution control plan. The organization also pointed to the airport's planned $880 million capital improvement and expansion program, arguing that upgrades should include stronger measures to address PFAS runoff.

The public comment period for the draft permit closed on July 31. DEQ has not yet announced when it expects to issue a final permit.