18-07-2025
Land access near Holloman Air Force Base to temporarily close due to PFAS levels
ALAMOGORDO, N.M. (KRQE) — To protect the public from potential PFAS exposure, land surrounding the Holloman Evaporation Pond near the Holloman Air Force Base will temporarily close starting Aug. 14.
To some, it might look like a lake you'd want to go swimming in. However, taking a closer look shows otherwise.
PFAS levels near Holloman AFB at record high
'Given the recent scientific evolution of it becoming a hazardous substance about a year ago and especially with it just last month being found in the soil surrounding the lake is what drove us to implement this closure that is coming up in 30 days,' said Colonel John Ethridge, Commander of the 49th Wing at Holloman Air Force Base.
Also known as 'Holloman Lake,' the Holloman Evaporation Pond and the land around it near the air force base will be closing to public access on Aug. 14. The base said it's to protect people from forever chemicals called 'PFAS.' Which are linked to health problems.
The land was initially transferred through the 1995 National Defense Authorization Act to the Department of the Air Force from the Department of the Interior. PFAS chemicals found in the soil and water are at least partly linked to the prior use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam products in firefighting operations and training programs on base, according to the public affairs office of Holloman Air Force Base.
In June, UNM researchers found PFAS levels at the site are at the highest levels recorded anywhere. The area is a wastewater treatment facility and was not meant for recreational use. For years however, people have been allowed to visit Holloman Lake.
Report reveals record-breaking levels of PFAS at Holloman Lake
The air force base said concerns over PFAS levels have lead to changes over the years including more fencing to prevent animals getting access to the water. They also ended their hunting program in 2019 and prohibited all recreational activities in the water.
Recent research showing PFAS chemicals in the nearby soil is what pushed the base to close the pond at least for the next two years.
Wildlife at Holloman AFB have high levels of chemical contamination, UNM study says
'Ultimately the timeline for reopening the area will be dependent on the evolution of that science and our ability to clean up and remove the PFAS from the area,' added Colonel Ethridge.
The base said their water and water for Alamogordo and surrounding areas has not been affected by the PFAS at the lake.
Reacting to the closure, the New Mexico Environment Department sent KRQE this statement:
'This is a clear admission that the U.S. Air Force poisoned Holloman Lake with toxic PFAS. With world-record-breaking contamination documented in the lake's wildlife and plants, the time for cleanup is now.'
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