Holloman Lake: A Hidden Danger in New Mexico
From a distance, Holloman Lake in Alamogordo, New Mexico, appears to be a serene and inviting spot for camping, RV parking, and enjoying the outdoors. However, upon closer inspection, the reality is far from idyllic. The air around the lake carries a faint but unmistakable odor of rotten eggs, and the water has a yellowish hue that signals something is amiss. Visitors who venture too close quickly realize that this is no ordinary body of water. The lake, once a peaceful retreat, has become a hotspot for severe environmental contamination, posing significant risks to human health and the surrounding ecosystem.
A Legacy of Pollution
The story of Holloman Lake dates back to the 1960s when it was constructed to collect stormwater and wastewater from Holloman Air Force Base. Over the decades, the lake has primarily served as a wastewater catch basin for the base, accumulating pollutants that have now reached alarming levels. In January, the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) released a shocking report revealing record amounts of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the water, soil, plants, and animals around the lake. PFAS, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are a group of synthetic compounds known for their persistence in the environment and their ability to bioaccumulate in living organisms.
The discovery of PFAS at Holloman Lake is not an isolated incident. The U.S. Air Force, which operates the base, has been testing for these chemicals at military installations across the country since the late 2010s. Every base in New Mexico, including Holloman Air Force Base, Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, and Cannon Air Force Base near Clovis, has tested positive for PFAS contamination. The primary source of this pollution is attributed to the use of firefighting foam containing PFAS during training exercises. Although the military has announced plans to phase out these foams by October 2024 under the National Defense Authorization Act, the damage has already been done.
The Devastating Impact of PFAS
PFAS are everywhere—found in everything from nonstick cookware to food packaging. While they were once considered harmless, mounting scientific evidence has revealed the dangers of these chemicals. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to serious health issues, including cancer, reproductive problems, developmental delays, and organ damage. These effects are not limited to individuals directly exposed; PFAS can be passed down through generations, as they are transferred from mother to child. This generational impact is particularly concerning, as it means the consequences of PFAS contamination will be felt for years to come.
The contamination at Holloman Lake is so severe that it has earned New Mexico the unwelcome distinction of having the highest levels of PFAS ever scientifically recorded on Earth. One particularly troubling finding was the discovery of a Merriam’s kangaroo rat at the lake with PFAS levels 900 times higher than what is considered safe by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This finding raises alarms about the potential spread of these chemicals through migratory birds and other wildlife. Researchers have also observed foam coating the beach, rocks, and vegetation around the lake, which could potentially release PFAS into the air, further complicating the cleanup efforts.
The Human Toll of Environmental Neglect
Despite the clear risks, Holloman Lake remains accessible to the public, and many visitors are unaware of the dangers lurking in the water. During a recent visit by ABC-7, several campers were seen parked near the lake, completely oblivious to the contamination. One couple, who had just arrived to camp for a few days, expressed their shock and concern upon learning about the pollution. Within minutes, they packed up their belongings and left the area, citing feelings of unsafety. Other campers shared similar reactions, with one individual recalling seeing children playing near the water just days earlier. These stories highlight the urgent need for clearer warnings and greater public awareness about the risks associated with the lake.
A Call to Action
In response to the crisis, the NMED has filed two lawsuits against the U.S. Air Force, seeking reimbursement for damages caused by the pollution. Meanwhile, state lawmakers have introduced two new bills aimed at addressing the PFAS problem. The first bill would ban the sale of certain products containing PFAS, while the second would grant the state authority to hold responsible parties accountable for cleanup efforts. These measures are currently under review by the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and their passage could mark a significant step toward mitigating the impact of PFAS in New Mexico.
The situation at Holloman Lake serves as a stark reminder of the silent but pervasive threats posed by environmental pollution. As NMED Cabinet Secretary James Kenney so aptly put it, "This isn’t the legacy we want to be known for." The discovery of record-breaking PFAS levels in New Mexico is a call to action—a wake-up call for policymakers, communities, and individuals to take seriously the challenges posed by these "forever chemicals." If left unchecked, the contamination at Holloman Lake and similar sites could have far-reaching consequences for generations to come. It is time for collective action to ensure a safer, healthier future for all.
