**Crisis in New Mexico: PFAS Contamination Raises Alarm as State Battles Federal Government**
A disturbing health crisis is unfolding in New Mexico, where residents near Cannon Air Force Base are grappling with alarming levels of PFAS contamination—dubbed "forever chemicals" for their persistence in the environment and the human body.
Recent testing revealed that nearly 99.7% of participants in a state biomonitoring project exhibited detectable levels of these harmful chemicals in their blood.
Most concerning are the residents closest to the contamination plume, who show considerably higher concentrations of PFAS linked to long-term exposure from firefighting foams used at the base.
Test results indicate that PFAS levels in groundwater reached an astounding 26,200 parts per trillion, a staggering 650,000% above federal drinking water limits.
Amid increasing public outcry and rising health worries, New Mexico Environment Secretary James Kenney has been vocal about the need for federal action.
He advocates for more robust cleanup efforts beyond the military base, emphasizing that the health and safety of New Mexicans cannot be sidelined. "We need the whole of New Mexico to stand up and say we've had it," he stated passionately.
Despite the U.S. Air Force reportedly investing over $73 million in investigation and treatment efforts, local officials insist these measures are insufficient.
Residents are understandably frustrated; many have seen their property values plummet and livelihoods decline due to the contamination. The state is currently embroiled in litigation with the U.S. Defense Department over environmental damages caused by PFAS, further exacerbating the crisis.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has also advocated for additional health surveys and is championing a new state law aimed at phasing out products containing PFAS.
While some environmental groups raise concerns about establishing a direct link between PFAS exposure and specific health outcomes, studies have revealed alarming associations: elevated cholesterol levels, various cancers, and decreased birth weights.
As this situation continues to escalate, it is clear that New Mexico's ongoing fight against PFAS contamination highlights significant challenges for the military and federal regulatory agencies.
Echoing broader concerns regarding government accountability, many locals feel their voices are lost in the bureaucratic shuffle.
With federal actions lacking urgency, the need for decisive leadership has never been greater.
As New Mexico battles this contamination crisis, it stands as a stark reminder of the urgent requirement for transparency and action in safeguarding public health and the environment.
Sources:
naturalnews.comzerohedge.com