Contact our Legal Partner
Get Started

Water Contamination at Cannon Air Force Base Overview

Cannon Air Force Base in Clovis, New Mexico, has a long history as a key military site. Established in 1942 as Clovis Army Air Field, it has played a vital role in U.S. defense operations since World War II. In 1951, Tactical Air Command took control of the base, and the 140th Fighter-Bomber Wing of the Air National Guard was stationed there. Six years later, the base was renamed after Gen. John K. Cannon. Simultaneously, it became home to the 27th Fighter Wing (now the 27th Special Operations Wing), a partnership that continues today.

In recent years, however, Cannon has faced environmental challenges that have impacted its legacy. Harmful chemicals, especially per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have contaminated the base’s water supply, posing serious risks to those stationed there. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has even classified the base as a Superfund site, meaning it will need significant cleanup efforts.

Unfortunately, service members exposed to Cannon’s contaminated water may face increased health risks. If you’ve been affected, you may be eligible for compensation. MilitaryHazards.org can connect you with experienced attorneys specializing in military base water contamination cases. Contact us today for a no-obligation, confidential consultation.

Cannon Air Force Base Water Contamination Timeline

  • 1942: Clovis Army Airfield opens during World War II.
  • 1957: Clovis Army Airfield is renamed Cannon Air Force Base.
  • 1950s – 1980s: Extensive chemical use by the military, coupled with poorly regulated disposal and cleanup practices, allows contaminants like PFAS to permeate the environment around the base.
  • 1974: The federal Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) takes effect, establishing new federal standards for drinking water. However, water contamination issues at Cannon continue.
  • 1980s – 1990s: Reports of chemicals spills and improper disposal at military bases become more widespread. Initial assessments of water quality for the presence of PFAS and other chemicals begin.
  • 2000s: The EPA begins more closely investigating water contamination at bases like Cannon.
  • 2011: The EPA first identified PFAS contamination in the groundwater near Cannon Air Force Base.
  • 2016: The EPA issued a lifetime health advisory for PFAS and PFOA in drinking water, heightening public concern.
  • 2018: The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) reported elevated PFAS levels in groundwater wells surrounding the base.
  • 2023: Ongoing lawsuits seek compensation for health issues caused by toxic exposure at Cannon Air Force Base.
  • 2024: A spill of 7,000 gallons of PFAS-containing firefighting foam occurred at Cannon AFB. The event highlights the ongoing need for monitoring and control of water contamination at military installations.

History of Water Contamination at Cannon Air Force Base

Cannon Air Force Base has faced water contamination issues for decades. The frequent use of chemicals and toxins in military operations made it easy for contaminants to enter the environment. Indeed, spills, improper disposal, storm runoff, and other sources allowed these substances to contaminate the local groundwater, which supplies most of the base’s drinking water. For years, a lack of awareness of the dangers of water contamination, combined with a weak approach to regulations, often allowed the contamination to spread unchecked. It’s only more recently that the public, military, and government have recognized the serious risks of water contamination.

Among the most notable water contaminants at Cannon are PFAS. These substances are often called “forever chemicals” due to their extreme resistance to breaking down. PFAS can accumulate in the body for decades, and in turn, increase someone’s risk of various health issues, including certain cancers. Contaminants at Cannon also include heavy metals (e.g., lead) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Like PFAS, these toxins may also cause considerable health risks for consumers. All these contaminants have been found at significant, sometimes dangerous levels, in Cannon’s water. Cleanup and remediation efforts are ongoing.

Location of Water Contamination at Cannon Air Force Base

Studies by the U.S. Air Force, the State of New Mexico, and other authorities have found various water contamination sites around Cannon Air Force Base. PFAS have even been detected in the area’s cattle, rendering their milk unsuitable for public consumption. The map below highlights areas where contamination has been found at substantial levels.

What Contaminants Have Appeared in Cannon Air Force Base’s Drinking Water?

The pervasive use of PFAS chemicals at Cannon AFB is a significant concern. These chemicals are found in various maintenance fluids and are often used as coatings on airplane parts. As a result, both maintenance personnel and flight crews may face significant exposure. Another major source of contamination is aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam containing PFAS. Although the military is phasing out AFFF, the process is ongoing. In fact, in mid-July 2024, a large spill of 7,000 gallons of firefighting foam occurred at Cannon. The base did not become aware of the spill until late August. As a result, there was ample time for potential contamination to spread. An extensive cleanup effort is ongoing.

However, PFAS are not the only contaminants found in Cannon’s water. Others include:

  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
  • Lead
  • Mercury
  • Copper
  • Arsenic
  • Nitrate
  • Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
  • Uranium

Some of these contaminants may only appear in low concentrations. All the same, prolonged exposure to these toxins — even at trace levels — can still raise someone’s risk of various health issues. These include various cancers, kidney disease, liver damage, and thyroid disorders.

Can I Drink the Water at Cannon Air Force Base?

Cannon’s 2023 water quality report indicates that the local water meets all required safety standards. However, this does not mean the water is contaminant-free. Ongoing concerns about the presence of PFAS in the area’s water remain. In line with EPA recommendations, the base conducts regular water quality sampling to monitor for PFAS. The base is also subject to all applicable water standards, including the Safe Drinking Water Act. Nonetheless, service members, veterans, and civilians may still face heightened health risks from long-term exposure to PFAS.

Water treatment efforts at Cannon Air Force Base

Recent years have brought considerable awareness of the pervasiveness of water contamination on military installations. Multiple initiatives to remove sources of contamination from military bases and clean up the local environment are ongoing.

At Cannon Air Force Base specifically, the government and military have allocated extensive funding to study, document, and recommend cleanup measures for water contamination in and around the base. The Air Force alone has spent $1.56 billion on this project as of 2023.

Additionally, the Department of Defense (DoD) has implemented protocols to reduce the amount of potentially harmful substances on bases. For example, the military has begun phasing out AFFF firefighting foam across bases. Municipalities nationwide are also beginning to install advanced filtration systems to remove chemicals like PFAS from drinking water.

Illnesses Linked to Water Contamination at Cannon Air Force Base

A growing body of research has linked exposure to PFAS and other water contaminants to serious health concerns. Those exposed while at Cannon AFB may be more likely to experience issues such as:

  • Kidney cancer  
  • Testicular cancer  
  • Thyroid cancer  
  • Thyroid disease  
  • Liver disease  
  • Kidney disease 
  • Weakened immune systems
  • Pregnancy complications  
  • Cardiovascular issues 
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)  
  • Developmental delays in children  
  • Ulcerative colitis

If you lived or worked at Cannon Air Force Base for an extended time, it’s crucial to get regular health screenings to detect potential issues. Some conditions may take years to develop, even long after you leave the service.

Many of these conditions may cause significant financial burdens for the afflicted. Consequently, numerous affected service members have filed lawsuits related to water contamination at Cannon AFB. If you believe your health was impacted, you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation. However, certain conditions will apply. Therefore, it’s important to speak with a qualified legal representative to begin your case.

Do I Qualify for a Cannon Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawsuit?

You will likely need to meet certain requirements to file a water contamination lawsuit for Cannon Air Force Base. Notably, you will need:

  • Proof of service or residence: You must show that you served or resided at Cannon for at least six months during a contamination period. Service documents can help demonstrate this connection.  
  • Proof of illness: You need to demonstrate that you have an illness linked to PFAS or other water contaminants. Medical records, photographs, and personal statements may help support this claim.

Each case is unique, and the guidance of a legal professional can be invaluable in pursuing your claim. Contact us to get in touch with a legal professional who can help you with your case.

Possible Settlement Amounts for a Cannon Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawsuit

Your water contamination lawsuit may result in a financial settlement. With a settlement, the defendant agrees to pay a certain amount for the losses you sustained. Here are a few facts about settlements:

  • Settlements typically range from $30,000 to $500,000.
  • Cancer-related claims generally settle for $100,000 to $300,000, with high-value cases potentially exceeding $500,000.
  • The average settlement is around $250,000.
  • Cases involving minor injuries or limited exposure may settle for $30,000 to $75,000.

These figures are estimates, and no settlement is guaranteed. The amount you receive may depend on factors such as the extent of your exposure, the duration of your residence at the base, and the severity of your health condition. Individuals who experienced prolonged exposure and developed severe conditions may receive higher settlements.

If your case doesn’t settle, it could go to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome. A trial may result in a larger settlement, but there’s also the risk of receiving no compensation. A legal expert can help you evaluate your options and decide whether to pursue a settlement or go to trial.

How Do I File a Cannon Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Water contamination lawsuits are often complex, typically spanning several months. Your attorney will guide you through the process, helping to:

  • Assess the strength of your case
  • Gather necessary evidence
  • File the required legal paperwork
  • Ensure deadlines are met

Due to the complexity of these cases, working with an experienced legal team is essential. Attorneys specializing in environmental law, personal injury law, and military regulations may improve your chances of a successful outcome.

Evidence to support your water contamination lawsuit

You need evidence to support your Cannon Air Force Base water contamination lawsuit. Your attorney will help you determine what materials to gather, which may include:

  • Medical documentation of diagnosed health conditions linked to water contamination (e.g., cancers, thyroid disease).
  • Military records showing your service at Cannon Air Force Base.
  • Proof of residence at Cannon during a period of contamination.
  • Environmental reports, water reports, or studies highlighting contamination levels in the area.
  • Personal statements describing how the contamination-related illness has affected your daily life and income.
  • Expert testimony explaining the connection between contaminated water and health conditions.

Is There a Deadline for Cannon Air Force Base Water Contamination Claims?

Your water contamination lawsuit is likely subject to a statute of limitations. Under the statute, you must file your claim within a certain time frame. Otherwise, you won’t be able to file later. In general, the statute of limitations for these cases is two years from the date you were diagnosed with a contamination-related health condition. However, time limits can vary, so you should seek legal advice promptly if you’ve received a diagnosis. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal intricacies and advise you on how to proceed.

Get Help With Your Cannon Air Force Base Water Contamination Case

The widespread contamination of water by PFAS and other harmful chemicals at Cannon Air Force Base has caused serious health issues for many active-duty service members and veterans. If you’ve been affected, a skilled legal team can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today, and we’ll connect you with legal experts who can help you build a strong case. Don’t wait—your comprehensive legal evaluation is just a click away.

Sources: