Cherry Point Water Contamination

Cherry Point Water Contamination Overview

Cherry Point, officially known as Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point (MCAS Cherry Point), is located in Havelock, North Carolina. The base spans almost 29,000 acres with multiple operable units. It was originally commissioned in 1942 and is considered “one of the best all-weather jet bases in the world” today. 

Active duty personnel, retired Marines, civilians, and family members make up a population of more than 38,000 at the base. Unfortunately, many of these individuals have been impacted by—or are at risk of—illnesses related to toxic water. The base became a Superfund site in 1994 because of this contamination, and cleanup efforts are still underway. MilotaryHazards.org is dedicated to helping veterans understand toxic exposure at military bases and what options could be available. Contact us today for more information.

About Cherry Point 

Those stationed at MCAS Cherry Point have been exposed to toxic PFAS, petroleum, and VOCs in water. 

• Located in Havelock, NC
• Formally known as Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station  
• Active 1942-today 
• Superfund site for soil and groundwater contamination

PFOA: Groundwater – 22,100 – 2022
PFOS: Groundwater – 372,000 – 2022
PFOA+PFOS: Groundwater – 394,100 – 2022
Source

Updates for Cherry Point Water Contamination

Explore the history of water contamination concerns at Cherry Point Air Station:

2022: The base’s groundwater tested positive for very high levels of PFOS and PFOA, two types of PFAS. The maximum level of PFOS detected was 372,000 ppt, and the maximum level of PFOA detected was 22,100 ppt. Source

2017-2018: The base’s drinking water tested positive for multiple types of PFAS, including PFOS and PFOA, at a combined maximum level of 151 ppt. Source

2012: A problem area of the base, known as “Hot Spot 2” is covered, restricted to industrial use, and groundwater use is banned because of soil and groundwater contamination with VOCs and PFAS. Source

2005: Government, military, and state officials signed an agreement (a Federal Facilities Agreement) to ensure proper investigation and planned cleanup of the military site.  

1994: Cherry Point was declared a Superfund site and placed on the EPA’s National Priorities List (NPL) due to extensive contamination that puts the public and environment at risk. 

Cherry Point and Its History of Toxic Chemicals

Contamination Updates – Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station

• 1994: Cherry Point becomes a Superfund Site and part of the NPL. 
• 2000-2004: The Navy conducts testing and monitoring of soil and water contaminants. 
• 2005: A Federal Facilities Agreement is signed to continue addressing contamination concerns. 
• 2007-2011: Efforts to remove and safely contain toxins take place at the base.
• 2022: Elevated levels of PFAS detected in the base’s groundwater and drinking water. 
• 2024: Cleanup efforts continue. 

Where Was There Water Contamination at Cherry Point?

Toxic contamination has been present across Cherry Point Air Station. However, key areas with VOC and PFAS contamination include fire stations, fire training areas, landfills, pits, and debris areas. These were areas where firefighting foam was used to put out and maintain fires, as well as where harmful chemicals were disposed of. These chemicals can then leech into the soil, impacting groundwater that feeds the base’s drinking water supplies. 

What Water Contaminants Were Found at Cherry Point?

The main contaminants found at Cherry Point include: 

• PFAS: PFAS, a group of chemicals found in products like firefighting foam, can cause a series of health illnesses, such as testicular cancer and kidney cancer, especially with long-term exposure. 
• Petroleum: Petroleum products are used frequently by the military to fuel and maintain vehicles. However, petroleum spills and disposal can create toxic soil and water conditions, putting people at risk of heart and respiratory problems. 
• VOCs: Various VOCs have been found in Cherry Point soil and groundwater. VOCs can cause cancer and other life-threatening health illnesses, especially with long-term exposure or exposure in high quantities.

Other contaminants found in the soil and groundwater at Cherry Point: 

Source

Individuals who know or suspect they’ve been exposed to such toxins at Cherry Point for six months or longer should consider seeking legal representation. Known exposure and diagnosis of a related illness could enable victims to file a claim against chemical manufacturers for wrongful exposure. 

Is Cherry Point Water Safe to Drink?

Water treatment efforts are still underway at Cherry Point. Some of the most recent water test results indicate elevated levels of PFAS that are above the EPA’s new enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL). For example, the MCL for both PFOA and PFOS is 4 ppt. Previous levels of PFOA and PFOS at Cherry Point have reached 142 ppt and 64 ppt, respectively. These results are 16-35.5 times the MCL. 

Water Treatment Efforts at Cherry Point

Officials have been working on removing toxins from soil and water at Cherry Point Air Station for three decades. In their dedication to remediation, the U.S. Navy, the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR), and the EPA signed the Federal Facilities Agreement (FFA). The FFA is meant to ensure proper cleanup and compliance with state and federal regulations. 

Cleanup efforts at Cherry Point have involved the installation of ground treatment systems, usage of air sparging/soil vapor extraction (AS/SVE) systems, and evacuation techniques. The Navy also continues to regularly test groundwater and drinking water to detect any regulatory concerns. 

What Health Risks Are Linked to Drinking Water at Cherry Point? 

PFAS, petroleum, and VOCs are connected to serious health problems for those who were exposed at Cherry Point. PFAS, in particular, has gained a substantial amount of attention as the list of military sites with toxic water continues to grow. It’s crucial to let your doctor know of any known or suspected toxic exposure. Maintain regular check-ups and participate in any recommended screenings to ensure potential health conditions are caught as soon as possible. Early detection can aid with treatment options and prognosis. 

Health risks and symptoms linked to drinking contaminated water: 

Who Is Eligible to File a Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Water contamination lawsuits can take several months or longer to resolve, so it’s important to meet with an attorney as soon as possible if you’re interested in pursuing legal action. During an initial consultation, an environmental attorney can help confirm your eligibility and opportunity for a successful case. 

To be eligible, you typically must have had at least six months of toxic exposure and a diagnosis of a related health condition. There are also deadlines for when you must file, which your attorney can help you navigate. 

Will There Be Settlements for Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawsuits?

Water contamination settlements can range from $30,000 to $500,000, depending on the details of your case. On average, settlements often fall around $100,000 to $300,000, with an average settlement amount of $250,000. 

If your case lacks evidence or involves a minor injury, compensation from a settlement could look more like $30,000 to $75,000. Conversely, a case with strong evidence and a severe illness could exceed $1,000,000. The right attorney will help you build the strongest case possible, backed by reliable evidence. 

Keep in mind that pursuing a verdict in court could result in a higher payout, so you risk walking away with no compensation at all. As a result, many toxic water cases do conclude with a settlement. 

How Can I File a Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawsuit? 

There are a few steps involved with filing a Cherry Point Air Station water contamination lawsuit. Consider this process to file appropriately: 

Steps for filing a Cherry Point water contamination lawsuit:

• Determine eligibility: The first step is determining if you meet the necessary qualifications to file a claim. This involves reviewing specific criteria, such as exposure timelines, health impacts, and military service details. An attorney can provide a thorough legal evaluation to help ensure you meet the required standards for pursuing a case.
• Collect evidence: Evidence is crucial in an MCAS Cherry Point water contamination lawsuit. You will need to gather documents such as medical records that show health conditions linked to the contamination, military service orders that prove your presence on the base, and any environmental studies or reports related to the water contamination. An attorney can guide you in identifying and collecting the most relevant evidence.
• File the case: Once eligibility is confirmed and evidence is collected, the next step is to file the lawsuit. This involves drafting and submitting the necessary legal documents to the appropriate court. An attorney will ensure the paperwork is properly prepared and filed within the correct jurisdiction to move the case forward.
• Enter into negotiations: After the case is filed, negotiations between your attorney and the opposing party can begin. Settlement discussions may take place before or during the trial process. Your attorney will aim to secure a fair settlement, though negotiations can continue until a verdict is reached in court.
• Prepare for trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to trial. This step involves thorough preparation, including gathering additional evidence and witness testimony. While trial verdicts can sometimes result in higher compensation than settlements, there is also a risk that the outcome may not be favorable. An experienced attorney will help prepare for all possible scenarios in court.

What Evidence Is Needed for My Cherry Point Case?

Evidence is essential for a water contamination claim because it serves as the foundation for proving that the contamination occurred and that it directly impacted your health or well-being. Without solid evidence, it becomes difficult to establish a clear connection between the contaminated water and the harm you’ve suffered, making it less likely for your claim to succeed.

Evidence that may help bolster your Cherry Point water contamination case: 

Ultimately, this evidence can help prove exposure, demonstrate the harm caused, and establish who is responsible for the contamination. By thoroughly documenting these key factors, you strengthen your case for compensation. Choosing an attorney experienced in toxic torts is crucial, as they understand the complexities involved in such cases. They can ensure the right evidence is gathered, presented effectively, and strategically used to support your claim. This expertise can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome, providing you with the compensation and justice you deserve for your suffering.

How Long Do I Have to File a Cherry Point Water Contamination Claim?

Cherry Point water contamination claims must be filed within the statute of limitations, which is a state-specific legal timeframe for filing a lawsuit. To qualify for compensation, victims must initiate their claim within this set period. Failing to do so could result in losing the right to seek damages for water contamination-related illnesses.

Typically, claimants have one to two years from the time of diagnosis to file their lawsuit. However, some states allow up to six years, especially for illnesses caused by PFAS contamination. Because these timeframes vary by state and circumstance, consulting with an attorney as soon as possible is crucial to avoid missing important deadlines. An attorney can ensure your claim is filed within the proper timeline and improve your chances of receiving compensation.

Who Should Be My Water Contamination Lawyer?

Veterans and their families who were stationed at Cherry Point for six months or longer may qualify for compensation if they now suffer from illnesses related to toxic water exposure. Exposure to contaminated water can lead to serious health issues, and legal action may help secure the compensation you deserve. Our dedicated team, backed by years of experience, specializes in connecting veterans to skilled lawyers equipped to handle military base lawsuits. These attorneys will help evaluate your claim, prepare your case, and provide expert representation from start to finish. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and explore your legal options.