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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: Bottled water and POET filtration systems at no cost, with long-term maintenance
  • New sampling methods: Advanced PFOA sampling procedures across multiple facilities
  • Sharing data findings: Submission of site-specific work plans and data to regulators
  • Ongoing collaboration: Continued coordination with MDE
  • Significant investment: Substantial resources committed to investigation and resident support
  • Proposed Remediation: In 2026, while continuing the site investigation at the Cherry Hill facility, Gore has proposed remediation plans in the immediate vicinity of the facility.

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 worked with suppliers to eliminate PFOA from our supply chain many years ago.

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

In 2026, while continuing the site investigation at the facility, Gore has proposed remediation in the immediate vicinity of the Cherry Hill facility.

The primary approach to remediation will be a ‘pump and treat’ groundwater remediation technology, which uses extraction wells to capture the groundwater, treat it onsite, and discharge it after testing confirms it meets permitting criteria.

In June 2025, we submitted an Interim Remedial Action Plan to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) outlining our proposed approach to remediate the presence of PFOA in groundwater in the immediate vicinity of our Cherry Hill facility. While site investigations continue in coordination with state regulators, Gore is poised to begin remediation activities at Cherry Hill in 2026.

More information about our remediation planning is available here: Addressing PFOA in Groundwater Near Gore’s Cecil County Facilities.

The primary approach to remediation will be a ‘pump and treat’ groundwater remediation technology, which captures groundwater, treats it onsite, and discharges it after testing confirms it meets permitting criteria. This proven method is designed to capture and contain the migration of PFOA in groundwater and reduce concentrations over time.

Before any treated water is discharged, it is tested to confirm it meets specific water quality criteria established in coordination with the Maryland Department of the Environment. Discharge requirements are reviewed and approved through the permitting process.

This work is part of Gore’s ongoing, data-driven approach to addressing PFOA impacts in groundwater near the Cherry Hill facility.

More information about the pump-and-treat system is available here: How Gore’s Pump-and-Treat System Works.

Gore is committed to ongoing communication with the community as work progresses. Updates on site investigation activities, remediation planning, and key milestones will continue to be shared on this site.

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

Residents who participated in Gore’s water sampling plan were also offered either a POET water filtration system or, where available, a connection to the public water system at no cost.

Gore uses a stepwise, data-informed process based on plans submitted to and coordinated with MDE. Sampling areas were initially determined using on-site data and residential well testing results and expanded as new data became available.

Maps of sampling areas are available on facility pages:

Yes. Gore has conducted residential water sampling in coordination with MDE. Residents were contacted directly if their property fell within approved sampling areas.

Maps of current sampling areas are available on facility pages.

If your home is within a designated sampling zone, you should have received a letter from Gore or Arcadis. Maps are also available on individual facility pages. Additional questions can be directed through the 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 system, contact Arcadis directly using the hotline provided in your installation materials.

For more information, refer to EPA resources on drinking water and PFAS treatment technologies.

Additional Resources & Information

We recognize that trusted public agencies are the best source for broader PFAS information. Below are helpful resources and details on how Gore is supporting the community.

To residents within Gore’s sampling areas

Gore has offered residents free POET systems or connections to public water as part of its data-driven groundwater assessment.

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

Visit the Maryland Department of the Environment’s PFAS Resource Center.

Understand the health impacts of PFAS from the CDC

Refer to the CDC’s PFAS fact sheet for health impact information.

Check current drinking water criteria for PFAS

See the EPA’s PFAS resource hub for regulations and guidance.

See if your home is in a sampling zone

Review facility pages for Fair Hill, Cherry Hill, Appleton, and Elk Mills to determine inclusion and next steps.

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.

Please note that your exercising of the rights outlined will have no adverse effect on the price and quality of our goods or services.

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