PFAS and Forever Chemicals

presented by Brent Walls, a member of the Potomac Riverkeeper Network

Brent Walls, Upper Potomac Riverkeeper, will be presenting on the what, where and why of PFAS in the Potomac Watershed—essentially a PFAS 101. (PFAS = per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).

You will hear why PFAS is a ubiquitous pollutant that has many sources and how it moves through our environment and contaminates our bodies. Brent will also discuss the campaign strategy of Potomac Riverkeeper Network that focuses on military bases and biosolids. Strategies that include legislation, community projects and enforcement actions. Following Brent, Bergen Hubert, Buttonwood board member, will speak on how New Balance is working to phase PFAS out of production of their goods.

The Presenters:

Brent Walls has been an advocate for clean water for two decades in the Chesapeake Bay. As the Upper Potomac Riverkeeper, Brent has protected the public trust of the rivers and streams in the Upper Potomac by advocating for clean water and ensuring the virtues of the Clean Water Act are enforced since 2009. With a degree in Environmental Science and freshwater ecology, history of serving our country in the Navy and operating a small family farm, Brent brings unique scientific and social perspectives to Potomac Riverkeeper Network. His technical mindset with geographic information mapping and experience in water science has ensured defensible enforcement actions. In 2025, Brent also became the Director of Programs for PRKN. His experience in the Potomac watershed is a valuable asset to help the organization in advancing on our programmatic actions for a cleaner Potomac and Shenandoah watershed.

Bergen Hubert is a product chemistry and sustainability professional who has spent her career helping companies identify and phase out harmful chemicals from their products and supply chains. At New Balance, she leads the brand’s PFAS phaseout strategy, including the development of prohibition policies, testing procedures, and cross‑functional implementation. She has spoken widely on how the apparel and footwear industry is addressing PFAS, where these chemicals commonly appear in consumer products, and what it takes to build safer, more transparent supply chains. Bergen’s work centers on advancing chemical stewardship, regulatory readiness, and practical pathways for eliminating hazardous substances at scale.

This program is presented in partnership with the Antietam Watershed Association with support from Marge Kiersz, Lucinda D. Potter CPA, SEK CPA’s and Advisors, and from Buttonwood’s Today’s Horizon Fund Contributors, The Nora Roberts Foundation, the late Alma W. Oyer, the late Carolyn Terry Eddy Family, APX Enclosures, and Don Gibe and Nancy Erlanson.