Toxic Discovery in U.S. Lake Sets Off Global Alarm
A newly published study found the lake now holds the highest levels of toxic 'forever chemicals' ever recorded in natural water.
Researchers from the University of New Mexico discovered staggering concentrations of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in the lake's water, surrounding soil, vegetation, and wildlife. In some samples, levels exceeded federal drinking water limits by more than 10,000 times. One bird and one plant tested carried the highest PFAS loads ever documented globally.
Often used in firefighting foam and industrial products, PFAS are linked to cancer, hormone disruption, infertility, and immune issues, and they don't break down easily in the environment. What makes the findings at Holloman so alarming is that contamination doesn't stop at the water's edge.
According to the report, flooding from the lake has carried PFAS into nearby playas—temporary bodies of water that serve as crucial habitats for migratory birds. Scientists worry the chemicals could now be spreading across ecosystems via wildlife. The Santa Fe New Mexican reported that just one bite of duck meat from the lake could expose a person to a lifetime's worth of PFAS.
'We are worried about the possibility of toxicity on reproduction and development in local birds,' said lead researcher Jean-Luc Cartron. 'Contamination by PFAS could also be transgenerational.'
Researchers also observed oryx, an exotic species introduced to the region decades ago, drinking from the lake. And while hunting has been banned in the area since 2024, New Mexico health officials have warned anyone who consumed meat from Holloman wildlife in the past decade to consult a doctor.
This discovery adds fuel to a growing conversation about PFAS pollution in the U.S. and beyond. While other contaminated lakes exist, none have reached these levels. And although scientists are making progress in removing PFAS from water, the scale of the challenge remains massive.
The crisis at Holloman Lake isn't just a local issue. It's a flashing warning sign for the world.Toxic Discovery in U.S. Lake Sets Off Global Alarm first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 10, 2025
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