Fort Hood Water Contamination

Fort Hood Water Contamination Overview

Fort Hood, now named Fort Cavazos, was established in 1942. It’s located between Austin and Waco, TX within Bell and Coryell Counties. The base’s primary role was to provide land for training troops during World War II. Since then, it has continued to be a popular location for stationing, training, and deploying members of the military during war times. The base has continued to evolve with various expansions and updates, making it one of the largest active duty posts today. 

In addition to its role in supporting war efforts, Fort Hood has gained attention for water contamination. The main toxin found in Fort Hood drinking water is PFAS. PFAS is found in a range of products, including firefighting foam that has been used by the military for decades to put out and maintain fires during training activities. Unfortunately, the group of chemicals that make up PFAS build up in the body and environment over time and put veterans at risk of serious health illnesses, such as testicular cancer and kidney cancer. MilitaryHazards.org is dedicated to helping veterans understand their toxic exposure and connecting them with attorneys who are skilled at handling such cases. Contact us today for more information. 

About Fort Hood 

Those stationed at Fort Hood have been exposed to toxic PFAS in water. 

• Located between Austin and Waco, TX
• Now known as Fort Cavazos
• Established in 1942
• Active today training and deploying troops

PFOA: Groundwater – 150 ppt – 2020-2021
PFOS: Groundwater – 310 ppt – 2020-2021
PFOA+PFOS: 460 ppt – 2020-2021
Source

Updates for Fort Hood Water Contamination 

Take a look at how water contamination has impacted Fort Hood: 

2024: Texas farmers decided to sue PFAS manufacturers after contamination impacted the health of their animals and pets. Their claim cited data showing extensive PFAS contamination around military bases, not just in Texas but across the United States. Source

2022-2023: Fort Hood water tested positive for high levels of PFAS. One type of PFAS (PFHxS) measured 50 times higher than the EPA’s health advisory. PFHxS levels were around 500 ppt, which is 50 times the 10 ppt health advisory. 

2021: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) updated its Tap Water Database and cited 32 different contaminants in Fort Hood water. Around 15 of these toxins exceeded EWG Health Guidelines, including arsenic and haloacetic acids. 

2016-2020: The DoD announces plans to look for PFAS contamination at Fort Hood. While investigations begin, firefighting foam is still used to extinguish fires. 

1960s-early 2000s: PFAS-containing firefighting foam is used for fire training exercises, to extinguish fires, and potentially within pesticides. It is often sprayed directly onto the ground, where it can seep into soil and groundwater. 

Fort Hood and Its History of Toxic Chemicals

Fort Hood has been using PFAS-containing firefighting foam since the 1960s. This has led to more than four decades of introducing these “forever chemicals” to the soil and groundwater at the base. Firefighting foam is often sprayed directly on the ground, where it can be absorbed into the soil and groundwater. And in many cases, groundwater supplies drinking water for military members and their families. 

Long-term exposure to PFAS puts victims at risk of life-threatening conditions, especially in higher amounts. More and more veterans and their loved ones are now taking legal action to help recover damages that can help with steep medical bills. 

Contamination Updates – Fort Hood

• 2024: Veterans begin to file lawsuits after toxic PFAS exposure at Fort Hood.
• 2022-2023: Fort Hood water tests positive for elevated levels of PFAS. 
• 2021: Fort Hood water exceeds health guidelines for multiple toxins.
• 2020: Contamination investigations kick off at Fort Hood. 
• 2016: The DoD announces plans to look for PFAS at the base. 
• 1970s-early 2000s: Firefighting foam use continues. 
• 1960s: Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is developed by the military, initiating decades of use.

Where Was There Water Contamination on Fort Hood?

Areas where PFAS contamination is suspected to have originated include: 

• Abandoned Sanitary Landfill No. 1
• Active Fort Hood Landfill 
• Building 88038 LCR Facility 
• Building 91039 Motor Pool 
• Building 90050 Old Fire and Crash Hangar
• Buildings 52940, 56519, 90145, 23025, and 7081 Active Fire Stations 
• Buildings 3201, 2445, 1285, 7002, and 4335 Former Fire Stations
• Buildings 90033, 6975, 7027, 90094, 90108, 90109, 90101, 90120, and 90176 Hangars
  Source

Contamination issues at Fort Hood have been sitewide. However, key areas with elevated levels of toxins in drinking water are where firefighting foam was used, stored, and disposed of. Landfills, drainage areas, hangars, fire stations, and fire training areas are frequently listed in cleanup plans for military bases like Fort Hood due to the use of toxic substances. 

What Water Contaminants Were Found at Fort Hood?

PFAS has been the main contaminant of concern at Fort Hood, originating from decades of firefighting foam used at the base. However, military activity has introduced several other toxins to the base’s soil and water. 

Other contaminants found in the water at Fort Hood: 

Source

Many of these contaminants are not susceptible to enforceable EPA regulations. Individuals who have been exposed to PFAS or other toxins for longer than six months should consider their legal options if faced with an illness related to wrongful exposure. 

Is Fort Hood Water Safe to Drink?

Some of the most recent test results for PFAS in Fort Hood/Fort Cavazos water tested well above the EPA’s new enforceable limits, which are 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS. These test results from 2020-2021 reached a maximum level of 310 ppt for PFOS and 150 ppt for PFOA. Exposure to this amount of chemicals, especially for more than six months, can lead to serious health consequences. Fort Hood has had a steady population of around 25,000-35,000 people, raising concerns about how many have been negatively impacted by toxic water. 

Water Purification Efforts at Fort Hood

Fort Hood follows the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980. This provides regulations for how chemicals are investigated and cleaned up, including PFAS. Fort Cavazos’ current cleanup status is listed as “remedial investigation underway,” with a completed Final Preliminary Assessment related to PFAS. 

Aside from sampling and investigating the presence of PFAS in Fort Hood water, its water also goes through chemical coagulation, filtration, and disinfection techniques to remove impurities. 

What Health Risks Are Linked to Drinking Groundwater at Fort Hood? 

Exposure to contaminants at Fort Hood has been associated with numerous health risks and symptoms. Prolonged exposure, especially for individuals who were stationed at the installation for six months or more, can increase the likelihood of developing serious health issues. Contaminants in the water may lead to long-term health problems, which is why it’s crucial for those affected to monitor their health closely. Regular medical checkups are strongly encouraged to help ensure early detection and treatment of any illnesses that may arise due to toxic water exposure. This can expand your treatment options, reduce the risk of complications, and potentially improve your prognosis. 

If you served at Fort Hood and have concerns about your health, consulting a healthcare provider familiar with toxic exposure-related conditions is essential. They can provide specialized testing and care to address any symptoms or underlying conditions caused by drinking toxic water. 

Health risks and symptoms linked to drinking contaminated water: 

Who Is Eligible to File a Fort Hood Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Individuals who have been diagnosed with a health condition linked to PFAS exposure after being stationed at Fort Hood may be entitled to compensation. PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” have been found to cause serious health problems, and exposure to these chemicals has raised concerns about long-term effects. If you have developed an illness related to PFAS contamination, you may be able to pursue legal action to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, filing a claim requires meeting specific eligibility criteria, making it crucial to understand the legal process involved.

To determine whether you qualify for a water contamination lawsuit, it’s essential to consult with an attorney experienced in environmental and toxic exposure cases. Legal requirements, such as proof of exposure, length of time stationed at the base, and documented health conditions, must be thoroughly evaluated. An attorney can assess your case, guide you through the steps needed to file a lawsuit, and ensure that all legal deadlines are met. Acting promptly increases your chances of securing the compensation you deserve while protecting your rights against further harm caused by the contamination.

Will There Be Settlements for Fort Hood Water Contamination Lawsuits?

Settlement amounts for cases related to water contamination at Fort Hood are anticipated to vary significantly based on factors like the specific diagnosis, your age when the illness was diagnosed, and the strength of the evidence linking your health condition to the water contamination at Fort Hood. 

Most settlements are expected to range between $30,000 and $500,000, though some claims may result in payouts up to $1,000,000. For context, past lawsuits involving cancer diagnoses have often settled in the range of $100,000 to $300,000. Individuals who were younger at the time of diagnosis or who experienced prolonged exposure to toxic water may be eligible for higher settlements.

On the other hand, cases with less clear proof of contamination or involving minor health issues could result in lower settlements, typically between $30,000 and $75,000. It’s also important to note that settlements are generally expected to be lower than potential trial verdicts, although a favorable outcome isn’t guaranteed. On average, settlements are predicted to hover around $250,000.

How Can I File a Fort Hood Water Contamination Lawsuit? 

To file a Fort Hood water contamination lawsuit, you’ll need to navigate the legal process. This typically entails: 

Steps for filing a Fort Hood water contamination lawsuit:

1. Determine your eligibility. The first step in pursuing a claim is to determine whether you meet the necessary criteria. Consulting an attorney is essential, as they can assess your situation and ensure you meet the qualifications for filing a water contamination lawsuit.
2. Gather evidence. Strong evidence is crucial for success in an El Toro water contamination case. This may include medical records, military service orders, environmental reports, and other relevant documentation that establishes a link between your health condition and the contaminated water.
3. File the lawsuit. After collecting the necessary evidence, the next step is filing the lawsuit. An attorney can assist in preparing and submitting the required legal documents to the appropriate court, ensuring the case is properly initiated.
4. Negotiate a settlement. Once the lawsuit is filed, your attorney can begin settlement negotiations. Negotiations can continue up until the case is resolved in court, with the goal of reaching a fair settlement before the trial concludes.
5. Prepare for trial. If settlement talks do not lead to an acceptable agreement, the case will proceed to trial. While verdicts from trials tend to be higher than settlement amounts, there is no certainty of a favorable result. Your attorney will prepare for trial to advocate for the best possible outcome.

Rest assured, MilitaryHazards.org can connect you with lawyers skilled at navigating this process from start to finish. 

What Evidence Is Needed for My Fort Hood Case?

Evidence is a key component of establishing, building, and bolstering your water contamination case. 

Evidence that may help bolster your Fort Hood water contamination case: 

How Long Do I Have to File a Fort Hood Water Contamination Claim?

Fort Hood water contamination claims must be filed within the statute of limitations, which is a legal time limit that varies by state and the circumstances of a case. To be eligible for compensation, individuals must initiate their lawsuit within this designated period.

Typically, claimants have to file a claim between one and two years from the time of diagnosis. However, some states allow up to six years, especially in cases involving PFAS-related conditions. Given the differences in these timelines, it is crucial to consult with a lawyer promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate window.

Who Should Be My Water Contamination Lawyer?

If you were stationed at Fort Hood for six months or longer and have since been diagnosed with a PFAS-related illness, you may be eligible for compensation. Our experienced team has a long history of helping servicemembers connect with attorneys who specialize in military base contamination lawsuits. They can assist you by reviewing your case, preparing the necessary paperwork, and representing you throughout the legal process. Reach out to our office today to schedule a consultation and explore your legal options.