Marine Corps Air Station El Toro Water Contamination

MCAS El Toro Water Contamination Overview

Former Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) El Toro is located near Irvine, California, in Orange County. It was commissioned in 1943 and was closed in 1999. The base covered around 4,700 acres and spent decades providing a space for military training and operations, particularly for the Marines. 

El Toro also gained a reputation as “Toxic El Toro” because of widespread contamination. As a result, veterans and their loved ones are now facing illnesses related to toxic exposure. MilitaryHazards.org is working hard to spread awareness of water contamination issues at military bases, connecting victims with experienced attorneys. Contact us today for more information. 

About MCAS El Toro

Those stationed at MCAS El Toro have been exposed to toxic PFAS in water. 

• Located near Irvine, CA 
• Purchased by the Marines in 1942
• Closed in 1999 under the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 (BCRA) 
• Contamination with PFAS, TCE, arsenic, benzene, and more

PFOA: Groundwater – 5,230 ppt – 2017-2020
PFOS: Groundwater – 2,800 ppt – 2017-2020
PFOA+PFOS: Groundwater – 8,030 ppt – 2017-2020

Updates for MCAS El Toro Water Contamination 

Learn more about water contamination at the El Toro military base: 

2023: Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), PFAS was flagged as an emerging chemical concern for MCAS El Toro. 

2016-2021: The Navy conducted a Preliminary Assessment and Site Investigation to determine the prevalence of PFAS at El Toro. Groundwater well samples had PFAS ranging from 5.2 ppt to 333 ppt. 

2006-2007: A “no further action” declaration was signed for the final operational units at the Superfund site in March 2006 with a final groundwater remedy selected in 2007. In January of 2007, an extensive TCE cleanup project began with an estimated 40-year timeline for completion. 

2002-2006: The Irvine Ranch Water District implemented a groundwater extraction and treatment system to remove toxins from El Toro groundwater. 

1990-2001: A multiphase extraction study completed extensive remediation of VOCs from the soil before the Navy continued excavating and disposing of soil at problem sites. 

1990: Because of hazardous contamination, El Toro was placed on the EPA’s National Priorities List (NPL) and named a Superfund site.

1978: The DoD established the Installation Restoration Program to address hazardous contaminants at military sites like El Toro.

Source

MCAS El Toro and Its History of Toxic Chemicals

Military activity at MCAS El Toro has led to extensive contamination of soil and groundwater. Primary toxins of concern include PFAS and TCE, though the base has been contaminated with many other carcinogenic substances.

Contamination Updates – MCAS El Toro

• 1978: El Toro participates in the DoD’s Installation Restoration Program. 
• 1990: MCAS El Toro became a Superfund site and was placed on the NPL. 
• 1990-2001: Efforts sought to remove VOCs from the soil. 
• 2002-2007: Groundwater treatment efforts continued. 
• 2016-2021: The Navy began to investigate the extent of PFAS contamination.
• 2023: PFAS was officially labeled as an emerging contaminant of concern.

Where Was There Water Contamination at MCAS EL Toro?

There are numerous contaminated sites at El Toro, according to the EPA. These sites include landfills, aircraft hangars, and an explosive ordnance disposal range. Soil and groundwater samples across the base and in surrounding areas have displayed harmful levels of numerous toxins, including PFAS. 

What Water Contaminants Were Found at MCAS El Toro?

Veterans and their families were exposed to toxins in El Toro water during its time of operation. PFAS is one of the most well-known contaminants, putting victims at risk of kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and much more. However, PFAS isn’t the only contaminant of concern. 

Other contaminants found in the soil and groundwater at El Toro: 

If you were exposed to PFAS or any other toxins for at least six months at El Toro, you could be entitled to compensation after developing an illness related to your toxic exposure. 

Is MCAS El Toro Water Safe to Drink?

MCAS El Toro is no longer in operation. However, the land was redistributed to federal agencies, state agencies, and developers. Contamination from the base has also impacted nearby communities. For example, the Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) tested positive for eight different types of PFAS. The EPA recently established enforceable limits for PFOS and PFOA at 4 ppt. IRWD test results for PFOS and PFOA reached maximum levels of 26 ppt and 19 ppt, respectively. 

Water Treatment Efforts at MCAS El Toro

The Navy, EPA, and IRWD have been working on a 40-year project to address water contamination at El Toro, particularly TCE contamination. However, since this project kicked off, PFAS has become an emerging contaminant of concern, requiring additional remediation efforts. 

IRWD monitors water for PFAS and shut down a well in 2018 that displayed levels of PFAS. In partnership with the Orange County Water District (OCWD), IRWD has worked to build a groundwater treatment system that removes PFAS from drinking water. 

What Health Risks Are Associated with Drinking Water at MCAS El Toro? 

Contaminants found at El Toro have been associated with a wide range of health risks and symptoms following exposure. Individuals who were stationed at the base for six months or longer may face an increased risk of developing serious health conditions, as prolonged contact with the toxic substances can lead to long-term effects on the body. The chemicals present in the water, including PFAS and other harmful compounds, are known to cause conditions such as cancers, reproductive issues, and immune system disorders.

Given the potential for significant harm, anyone who served at El Toro should undergo regular medical checkups. Early detection is critical in identifying illnesses linked to toxic exposure, which can improve treatment outcomes and prevent further complications. By staying proactive and consulting healthcare providers familiar with environmental hazards, you can better manage your health and address any issues that may arise due to contamination at the base. Regular monitoring allows for timely intervention, which is key to protecting your long-term health.

Health risks and symptoms linked to drinking contaminated water: 

Who Is Eligible to File an El Toro Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Individuals diagnosed with a health condition linked to PFAS exposure after being stationed at MCAS El Toro may be entitled to financial compensation. These “forever chemicals” are associated with various serious health issues. If you have been affected by PFAS contamination at the base, you could be eligible to pursue legal action. However, to qualify for a water contamination lawsuit, certain criteria must be met, such as proof of exposure, a confirmed diagnosis, and a connection to the contaminated water.

To determine whether you qualify for compensation, consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Legal professionals who specialize in toxic exposure cases can assess your situation, gather necessary evidence, and guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit. Acting quickly is important because legal deadlines, such as statutes of limitations, may apply. A lawyer can help ensure you meet qualifications and navigate the legal system to seek the compensation you deserve for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages resulting from your exposure at MCAS El Toro.

Will There Be Settlements for El Toro Water Contamination Lawsuits?

Settlement amounts for water contamination claims at El Toro are expected to vary based on circumstances like the severity of your diagnosis, your age at the time of diagnosis, and the strength of evidence linking your illness to the water contamination at El Toro. The ability to demonstrate a clear connection between your condition and toxic exposure plays a crucial role in determining the compensation you may receive.

Most settlements are anticipated to range between $30,000 and $500,000, although certain cases may reach as much as $1,000,000. Previous lawsuits involving cancer diagnoses have typically resulted in payouts between $100,000 and $300,000. Individuals who were diagnosed at a young age, or those who endured long-term toxic exposure or more severe illnesses, are likely to receive higher settlement amounts.

On the other hand, individuals with less proof of contamination and more minor health issues may receive lower settlements, often in the range of $30,000 to $75,000. While settlements are generally expected to be lower than potential trial verdicts, it’s important to understand that trial outcomes are never guaranteed. On average, settlement amounts are anticipated to be around $250,000, though again, this can vary.

How Can I File an MCAS El Toro Water Contamination Lawsuit? 

It’s important to understand what steps are involved with filing an El Toro water contamination lawsuit. Rest assured, there are lawyers who can help support you through the entire process. 

Steps for filing an El Toro water contamination lawsuit:

1. Determine your eligibility. The first step in pursuing a water contamination claim is to assess whether you meet the required criteria. An attorney can provide a thorough legal evaluation to confirm if you qualify to file a lawsuit.
2. Gather necessary evidence. Strong evidence is key to building a successful case in an El Toro water contamination lawsuit. This may include medical records, military service documentation, environmental reports, and any other materials that establish a connection between your illness and the contaminated water.
3. File your claim. Once the evidence has been collected, the next step is to file your lawsuit. An attorney will assist in preparing and submitting all required paperwork to the proper court, ensuring your case is properly filed.
4. Begin settlement negotiations. After filing, your attorney will enter into settlement negotiations on your behalf. Discussions can continue throughout the legal process and may result in an agreement before the case reaches a final verdict.
5. Prepare for trial. If negotiations fail to result in an adequate settlement, the case will move to trial. While trial verdicts often result in higher payouts than settlements, there is no guarantee of a positive outcome. Your attorney will prepare your case for court to achieve the best possible result.

What Evidence Is Needed for My El Toro Water Contamination Case?

Evidence can guide the success of your case and influence how much compensation you receive through a potential water contamination settlement after toxic exposure at El Toro. 

Evidence that may help bolster your MCAS El Toro water contamination case: 

How Long Do I Have to File an MCAS El Toro Water Contamination Claim?

Claims for water contamination at El Toro must be submitted within a designated timeline called the statute of limitations, which varies by state. This legal timeframe determines eligibility for compensation, as individuals must file their lawsuits within this period to be eligible for a successful settlement or verdict.

Typically, claimants have one to two years from the date of their diagnosis to initiate legal action. However, some states allow for extended filing periods, offering up to six years for cases related to PFAS exposure. These variations can significantly impact your ability to pursue compensation. Given the complexities and differences in legal timelines, you should consult with an attorney as soon as possible. They can provide guidance on your rights, help you navigate the legal process, and ensure your claim is filed in a timely manner, maximizing your chances for a successful outcome.

Who Should Be My Water Contamination Lawyer?

If you served at El Toro for six months or more and were later diagnosed with a PFAS-related condition, you might be entitled to compensation. Our experienced team is dedicated to connecting servicemembers with attorneys who specialize in military base contamination claims. We can help assess your situation, prepare all necessary paperwork, and guide you through the legal process. Contact us today to arrange a consultation and learn more about your rights and options.