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Frequently Asked Questions

Our collection of FAQs provides clear, fact-based answers to common questions about environmental testing, regulatory oversight, and Gore’s actions. We regularly update the information to ensure it reflects the latest data and developments.

General Questions & Background

When people talk about PFAS in the context of water or the environment, they are often referring to specific compounds such as PFOA, PFOS, and four other PFAS compounds that are included in the EPA’s drinking water standards.

We’ve worked with our suppliers to eliminate PFOA from our supply chain and now only purchase fluoromaterials from vendors who certify they do not use PFOA.

No. Gore has never manufactured or processed PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid). Trace amounts were historically present in certain raw materials supplied to Gore. As a result, trace levels of PFOA were historically present in the raw materials used by Gore.

Gore only purchases fluoromaterials from suppliers who certify they do not use PFOA, and all of Gore’s PTFE suppliers have signed on to the EPA PFOA Voluntary Stewardship Program.

Gore is taking a science-based, community-first approach in coordination with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). Our response includes:

  • For residents within our sampling area: We provided bottled water and offered POET filtration systems—at no cost to residents and with long-term maintenance.
  • New Sampling Methods: We’ve adopted advanced PFOA sampling procedures across multiple facilities.
  • Sharing Data Findings: We’ve submitted site-specific work plans and shared data with regulators for review.
  • Ongoing Collaboration: We continue working closely with MDE to assess impacts to groundwater and guide next steps.
  • Significant Investment: Gore has committed substantial resources to ensure responsible investigation and support for impacted residents.

Gore denies the allegations in the lawsuits that have recently been filed. We remain committed to the health and safety of our Associates, the broader community, and the environment.

For decades, Gore has proactively enhanced workplace and environmental practices and maintained open communication with state and local authorities. We also worked with our suppliers to eliminate PFOA—cited in the lawsuit—from our supply chain many years ago.

We will continue to defend ourselves against these allegations through the legal process, guided by facts and science.

As part of our comprehensive site investigation, we recently submitted a proposal to Maryland Department of the Environment to remediate the impacted groundwater at our Cherry Hill site.

There are several technical and investigative steps involved in identifying potential impacts and determining appropriate next actions. Throughout this extensive effort, we’ve remained committed to detailing our progress, regularly sharing timely updates with the community and other stakeholders.

We remain committed to fulfilling our responsibilities as a long-standing employer and valued member of the Cecil County community —where many of our Associates, family and friends live and work.

Yes. All residents identified in the sampling areas submitted to MDE were offered bottled water.

Those who participated in Gore’s water sampling plan were also offered either a Point-of-Entry Treatment (POET) water filtration system or, where available, a connection to the public water system. These were provided at no cost (regardless of individual test results) and are limited to residents included in the sampling areas defined in coordination with MDE.

Gore is using a stepwise, data-informed process based on plans submitted to and in coordination with MDE. Sampling areas were initially determined using on-site data and residential well testing results, and have been expanded as new data became available. Gore, or our third-party environmental consultant Arcadis, has contacted all residents whose properties are within the current sampling zones.

Maps of these areas are available on the facilities pages of this website:

Yes. As part of our data-driven approach to assess groundwater conditions, Gore has conducted residential water sampling in coordination with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). Residents located near our facilities were contacted directly if their property fell within the sampling areas outlined in the recommended plans. Sampling has expanded over time based on data collected during each phase of the investigation.

All identified parcels have received communication from Gore or our third-party environmental consultant, Arcadis.

Maps of the current sampling areas are available on each of our Gore facilities’ pages of this website:

If your home is located within a designated sampling zone, you should have received a letter from Gore or Arcadis with additional information and contact details. You can also view maps of all current sampling areas on the individual facility pages of this site. If you’ve received a letter and still have questions, please reach out to Gore via our Contact Page.

Gore began posting summary graphs of residential water sampling results in November 2024. These visuals are updated monthly to reflect the latest available data.

If you have questions about the POET (Point-of-Entry Treatment) system installed at your residence, please contact Arcadis, our third-party global environmental consultant, directly through the hotline provided in your installation materials.

For more information about water filtration and PFAS treatment technologies, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers a variety of helpful resources:

Additional Resources & Information

We know many residents have questions about PFAS or PFOA, what it is, and what it means for you. While Gore is taking active steps to investigate and respond to the presence of PFOA near our facilities, we recognize that trusted public agencies are the best source for broader information.

Below, you’ll find helpful links to state and federal resources, as well as details on how Gore is supporting the community.

To residents within Gore’s sampling areas

As part of our data-driven approach to assessing groundwater conditions in and around our facilities, Gore has reached out to residents living near sites included in the Maryland Department of the Environment’s approved sampling plan. Learn how Gore has offered these residents free POET systems (which remove PFOA and other PFAS) or connections to public water—even when their test results are non-detect or below regulatory limits.

Learn how the State of Maryland is tracking PFAS in your area

Visit the Maryland Department of the Environment’s PFAS Resource Center to explore interactive maps, health advisories, and how water safety is being tested and addressed across Cecil County.

Understand the health impacts of PFAS from the CDC

The CDC’s PFAS fact sheet breaks down what these substances are, how they can affect your health, and what exposure levels may mean for you and your family.

Check current drinking water standards for PFAS

The EPA’s PFAS resource hub provides national drinking water regulations, guidance for homeowners with private wells, and the latest scientific findings on PFAS, including PFOA.

See if your home is in a sampling zone

Find out whether Gore’s groundwater sampling program near our Fair Hill, Cherry Hill, Appleton and Elk Mills campuses includes your property, as well as what recent results have shownand what steps are being taken if elevated PFAS levels are found.

Residents of some states have the right to opt-out of the “sharing” or “selling” of their personal information. Gore does not “sell” the personal information of website users. Gore may “share” the personal information of website users, as standard advertising practice meant to offer you a more personalized service.

If you want to opt-out from Gore “sharing” your personal information, click on Opt-Out of Sharing to turn off the targeting cookies that we share with our advertising partners in order to provide you with personalized information. Disabling sharing will stop the use of cookies to targeted advertising but you may still see generic Gore ads.

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