Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico is investigating the environmental toll after 7,000 gallons of chemically contaminated water spilled on the facility over the summer, according to a public announcement by the base.
The tainted water contained PFAS — per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances commonly known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the environment and build up in the body. The substances are linked to a variety of health conditions and have polluted numerous military facilities and water supplies across the U.S.
The spill happened at the fire training area on base between July 9 and July 15, the base said in a press release Friday, and thousands of gallons of water containing PFAS leaked into a nearby retention pond.
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“We understand the concerns of our community, our airmen, and their families,” Col. Robert Johnston, the 27th Special Operations Wing and Cannon Air Force Base commander, said in the news release. “Please know that we are working expeditiously to address the affected area. We are committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure such incidents do not happen again in the future.”
PFAS, which have been used by the Air Force and other service branches in firefighting foam, have potential adverse health effects, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including kidney and testicular…
