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Gore’s Data-Driven Approach

At Gore, our testing of PFOA in groundwater near our facilities in Cecil County, as well as our response, is guided by what the data and science tell us.

Data as of Mar 1, 2026

We Are Leading By Example

Our commitment and collaboration reflect our long-standing role in Cecil County and our responsibility to the people who live and work here. Through ongoing testing and system improvements, we aim to protect both the environment and the well-being of our community now and into the future.

Gore’s Data-Driven, Science-Backed Approach to Testing

Our commitment to environmental stewardship begins with science. By leveraging robust data and advanced scientific methodologies, we have implemented cutting-edge testing to better understand and address complex environmental challenges.

Following the discovery of PFOA in groundwater near our Cherry Hill facility in 2023, Gore mobilized a comprehensive, science-backed response. We partnered with third-party experts and collaborated with regulatory agencies to conduct in-depth analyses of groundwater, surface water, and soil conditions surrounding our facilities.

Our strategy is straightforward: let the data guide every step, from identifying potential impacts to developing solutions that support a healthy environment in Cecil County.

Adoption of New Sampling Methods

Gore has been on the forefront instituting advanced PFOA sampling approaches in collaboration with MDE-approved procedures near our facilities.

A worker wearing PPE placing three water samples inside a container

Sharing Data Findings

We’ve submitted multiple site-specific work plans and shared preliminary conclusions with MDE for review and guidance.

Gore EM2 Drill Project

Community Response

We’ve provided bottled water and installed POET systems for impacted residents in coordination with MDE.

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Ongoing Collaboration

We continue working with MDE to review findings, share data, and assess impacts to groundwater.

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Investment and Remediation

Gore has committed millions of dollars to assess and respond to potential PFOA presence near our facilities, including the planned implementation of ‘pump and treat’ groundwater remediation technology at our Cherry Hill site. Learn more here.

Pump and Treat System at Cherry Hill
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In Maryland, Gore has taken a leading role in adopting new and innovative PFAS sampling methods, working with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to investigate and address environmental concerns in Cecil County.

By staying at the forefront of advanced sampling methods, Gore has helped shape how PFAS investigations are conducted in Maryland and reaffirmed our role as a responsible community partner.

Residential Well Results

Insight into Action

When Gore began residential well sampling in coordination with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), we aimed to build a clear picture of potential impacts. We sampled more than 90 residential wells in the areas identified in approved plans.

The results to date have helped pinpoint where focus was needed and guide next steps with confidence and care, reinforcing the importance of science as the foundation for responsible decision-making.

We’ve conducted ongoing water and soil sampling around our Cecil County facilities, drawing from hundreds of data points across private wells, monitoring wells, and soil samples.

Providing Immediate Support

As we gather data, we act. From offering bottled water and installing advanced water treatment systems to funding connections to public water sources, Gore has prioritized fast, meaningful support for impacted residents. 

The Impact of Our Testing And Sampling Efforts

Launched Comprehensive Site Investigations

  • Conducted in collaboration with MDE, setting a precedent for rigorous environmental inquiry

Supported Community Initiatives

  • Offered bottled water to 195 impacted residents
  • Offered POET water filtration systems to 146 homes
  • Installed 92 POET systems with 10-year maintenance at no cost
  • Installed 27 artesian water systems serving more than a dozen homes

Collected 456 Samples Total

  • Samples from more than 238 locations
  • 95 residential water samples
  • 106+ monitoring wells across Gore facilities
  • 37+ soil borings

Expanded Geographic Scope

  • Investigations extended beyond Cherry Hill to Fair Hill, Appleton, and Elk Mills campuses

Adopted EPA Best Available Technologies

  • Implemented advanced carbon filtration systems at the Cherry Hill campus to reduce PFOA and related substances in manufacturing processes and wastewater

Ongoing Collaboration with Regulators

  • Continuous data sharing, joint reviews, and adaptive planning with MDE

A Timeline of Site Investigation Activity

See a comprehensive timeline of activity across the locations included in the site investigation. 

Download the Timeline

Facilities

Learn more about the investigations conducted at each Cecil County facility:

Front view of the Cherry Hill Campus on a clear day

Cherry Hill

A research and development hub for the Gore enterprise
Fair Hill

Fair Hill

A community of 260 Associates working in its Performance Solutions Division.
Appleton Campus

Appleton Campus

Comprised of four manufacturing facilities located on Airport Rd. and in operation since the mid 1980s.
Elk Mills Campus

Elk Mills Campus

Established in the late 1990s and located on Vieve’s Way, named after co-founder Genevieve Gore.

Additional Resources

Gore is committed to open communication with the community. For answers to common questions, visit our News & Updates or Frequently Asked Questions.

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