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Overview of Water Contamination at Fort Knox  

Located in north-central Kentucky, Fort Knox is one of the most renowned military bases in the United States, famous as the vault for one of the country’s largest gold reserves. Its iconic status has made it a recurring figure in the American popular zeitgeist.

Established in 1917 after the United States entered World War I, Fort Knox reportedly became one of the Army’s largest training centers by 1922. In the 1930s, as military forces shifted from horse-mounted to mechanized cavalry, Fort Knox emerged as a hub for the development of armored warfare. The base even hosted the legendary Tuskegee Airmen during World War II. Today, Fort Knox remains a cornerstone of military innovation.

However, some aspects of Fort Knox’s history do not glitter like its gold. Like many military installations, it has struggled with water contamination issues that have only recently begun to merit proper attention. Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), and nitrates have been found in the base’s water supply. These toxins pose increased health risks to those who have served or lived there. 

If you or a loved one served at Fort Knox and developed health issues linked to contaminated water, you may be eligible for compensation. MilitaryHazards.org connects individuals with attorneys skilled in military water contamination cases. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your legal options.

Fort Knox Water Contamination Updates

  • 1917: Fort Knox is established as an army training cente’s a er during World War I. The base soon becomes home to one of the U.S.’s largest gold reserves.
  • 1920s – 1970s: Fort Knox becomes a permanent military installation with close connections to armored training. Extensive chemical usage throughout the facility creates opportunities for water contamination to occur.
  • 1974: The Federal Safe Drinking Water Act (FSDWA) takes effect, setting new standards for water safety in military and civilian settings.
  • 1990s – 2000s: Growing concerns about the toxic exposure risks faced by active-duty service members and veterans draws new scrutiny to environmental safety on military bases.
  • 2000s: Public authorities become increasingly aware of the risks posed by PFAS and other ultra-durable contaminants in the water supply.
  • 2009: The EPA establishes the first provisional health advisories for PFOA and PFOS — two types of PFAS chemicals — in drinking water.
  • 2010s – 2020s: The government and military begin taking various steps to study, document and clean up water contamination in and around military bases.
  • 2013 & 2019: Testing by the military does not detect PFAS contamination at Fort Knox. However, trace amounts of contaminants may still be present.
  • 2016: The EPA issues lifetime health advisories for PFAS chemicals in water.

Table of Contents

Fort Knox Water Contamination Background

Fort Knox’s history of water contamination stems from various sources. Chemicals have been used in military settings for decades. They have coated airplane parts, lubricated armored vehicles, and cleaned barracks. Such use created significant opportunities for harmful contaminants to seep into local water supplies. Improper disposal, aging infrastructure, spills, and storm runoff have all contributed manmade and natural contaminants to these water sources.

At one time, the potential hazards of these chemicals were not well understood. As a result, environmental damage often went unaddressed. Indeed, sometimes contamination went unnoticed because chemical levels fell below established safety thresholds. In other cases, some chemicals lacked any regulatory oversight at all. Today, however, increasing scientific and public awareness are highlighting the serious risks these contaminants pose (sometimes even at trace levels). This awareness is driving new efforts to tackle water contamination at military installations like Fort Knox.

One type of water contamination that has only come to the public’s attention comparatively recently comes from per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals.” Highly resistant to breakdown, PFAS persist in the environment and the human body for years. Through prolonged exposure, humans may develop an increased risk of multiple health issues. Federal and state authorities have begun implementing regulations to manage PFAS in the nation’s water supplies. Unfortunately, for generations of military personnel, the damage may already have been done.

Locations of Fort Knox Water Contamination

PFAS and other water contaminants can be found in various military settings, as well as in groundwater, surface water, and nearby wells. Efforts to monitor and remediate this contamination are ongoing. Check the map below to see areas where contamination has been identified in and around Fort Knox.

What Contaminants Are In Fort Knox’s Water? 

Many contaminants of concern have been noted in Fort Knox’s water at various times. Most notably, these include:

PFAS

PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because of their extreme resistance to heat, cold, oil, and water. They are very difficult to break down. For decades, they have been used in a wide range of products, from food packaging and non-stick cookware to cosmetics. In military settings, PFAS are commonly found in cleaning agents, aircraft coatings, and, notably, firefighting foams like aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).

Due to their extreme durability, PFAS can build up in the human body over time. Research increasingly shows that PFAS exposure can lead to serious health problems. These include various cancers, organ failure, and ulcerative colitis. Long-term exposure may significantly raise the risk of severe health issues for military members and veterans.

Trichloroethylene (TCE)

TCE, a volatile organic compound (VOC), was once widely used in industrial solvents, paint, and adhesives. Like PFAS, it is slow to degrade and can easily contaminate groundwater. Short-term exposure to TCE may cause mild symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. However, long-term exposure is linked to an increased risk of organ damage, reproductive issues, and cancer. Growing concerns about TCE’s potential harm have recently led to a gradual decrease in its use. It has previously been detected in Fort Knox’s groundwater.

Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)

PCE is a VOC commonly used as a cleaning solvent and in the production of other chemicals. It poses significant risks to human health and local ecosystems. Short-term exposure to PCE may cause symptoms like nausea, while long-term exposure can increase the risk of several health issues. Due to these risks, PCE is regulated in many countries, including the United States. The U.S. has implemented various guidelines for its use, exposure, and disposal under regulations from OSHA, the EPA, the Safe Drinking Water Act, and others.

Nitrate

Primarily known as a fertilizer chemical, nitrate can readily contaminate local groundwater through agricultural use and storm runoff. The extensive agriculture around Fort Knox has often allowed this contaminant to seep into water supplies. Prolonged exposure to nitrate is linked to higher risks of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer, as well as respiratory issues in children and infants.

Other Contaminants

Among the other contaminants that may appear in Fort Knox’s water are:

  • Chromium
  • Haloacetic acids (HAA5 & HAA9)
  • Barium
  • Nickel
  • Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
  • Copper
  • Lead

Each of these chemicals can pose serious health risks following long-term exposure. For example, lead—a known carcinogen—can enter water supplies through outdated lead piping systems. While many jurisdictions have begun replacing these pipes, lead pipes may still be present in older buildings and other areas. This is just one of many potential sources of water contaminants around Fort Knox.

Is The Water at Fort Knox Safe? 

Water at Fort Knox and in Hardin County, Kentucky, meets all applicable safety standards. However, water sampling by Fort Knox and local authorities still detected some contaminants. Meeting safety standards doesn’t guarantee water is contaminant-free, and certain groups—like children, the elderly, and people with specific health conditions—may be more vulnerable to low levels of contaminants.

Previous assessments in 2013 and 2019 also found no PFOS or PFOA—two primary PFAS contaminants—in the drinking water. As of 2024, testing at Fort Knox shows PFAS levels in the water are below detection limits, meaning any potential contamination is currently undetectable with available methods. However, undetectable does not mean a contaminant is not present in the water.

Fort Knox Water Treatment and Cleanup Efforts

Ongoing efforts by military and civilian authorities aim to address water contamination in and around Fort Knox. The base receives its water from Hardin County’s Water District #1, primarily sourced from the Muldraugh Water Treatment Plant, which has recently undergone significant upgrades to improve water quality and reduce contaminants.

Moreover, regulators are also taking proactive measures to limit PFAS contamination from both military and non-military sources. The military, for example, is phasing out PFAS-based firefighting foams—a significant source of contamination—in favor of safer alternatives. Additionally, the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are collaborating on various efforts to address PFAS contamination at bases throughout the nation. Through both independent and joint actions, these agencies are committed to advancing cleanup initiatives and reducing the environmental and health risks associated with PFAS.

What Health Issues Are Connected to Fort Knox’s Water Contamination?

Contaminants in Fort Knox’s water have been linked to increased risks of various health conditions, including:

  • Kidney cancer
  • Testicular cancer
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Hypertension
  • Immune system disorders
  • Reproductive and developmental issues

Health conditions related to PFAS exposure can take years to develop, making regular screenings essential for anyone who has served at Fort Knox. Still, while early detection can greatly improve treatment options, the financial and emotional toll of these conditions can be immense. Consequently, many service members are seeking legal action for health issues linked to toxic exposure at Fort Knox. If you’re considering this path, MilitaryHazards.org can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for PFAS-related health impacts.

Can I File A Lawsuit Over Fort Knox’s Contaminated Water?

If you believe you were exposed to contaminated water during your military service, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit for compensation. However, each case requires meeting some basic qualifications:

  • You’ll likely need to show that you served or lived at a base with known water contamination, often for a period of at least six months.
  • You must provide a diagnosis of a medical condition linked to water contamination. For instance, PFAS exposure is associated with conditions like ulcerative colitis. Having medical records that confirm this diagnosis could support your case.

Every water contamination lawsuit is unique, so it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney familiar with these complex cases. Reach out, and we’ll connect you with experts who are ready to assist.

How Much Can I Be Compensated For My Fort Knox Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Many water contamination lawsuits can result in financial settlements. Although settlements are not guaranteed, they may offer meaningful compensation to veterans and service members impacted by PFAS and other contaminants in Fort Knox’s water. Settlement amounts can vary based on factors such as:

  • Age
  • Type and severity of illness
  • Duration of exposure to contaminants

Settlement amounts typically range from $30,000 to $500,000, with the average falling around $250,000. Cancer-related cases may settle between $100,000 and $300,000, while cases involving minor injuries or limited exposure may settle for $30,000 to $75,000. However, these numbers are only estimates.

Your attorney will work closely with other parties involved to either negotiate a settlement or prepare the case for court. If your case does not settle, it could proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will decide whether and how much to compensate you. However, going to trial carries the risk of receiving no award in the end.

What’s the Process for Filing a Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Most water contamination lawsuits involve multiple steps and typically take at least several months to conclude. The process may include:

  • Consulting with a qualified attorney.
  • Gathering evidence with your attorney’s help.
  • Filing the case in court.
  • Providing personal statements and answering questions to support your case.
  • Collecting expert testimony on the effects of water contamination.
  • Attending pre-trial hearings.
  • Engaging in settlement negotiations.

An attorney experienced in personal injury, environmental law, and military cases will provide expert guidance as you navigate each step of the process.

What Evidence Will I Need For My Fort Knox Water Contamination Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Fort Knox water contamination lawsuit, you must provide evidence of an illness linked to chemicals like PFAS, TCE, or PCE. You will also need to demonstrate that you served at a military base affected by water contamination during your service. Typically, your military and medical records will serve as key evidence.

Additional supporting evidence may include:

  • Environmental reports on the extent of water contamination around Fort Knox.
  • Expert testimony connecting PFAS and other water contaminants to your health issues.
  • Personal statements on how your illness has impacted your life.
  • Financial records detailing the extent of the cost burden imposed by your illness.

Together, these materials can strengthen your case as you seek compensation for the harm caused by water contamination on military bases.

Is There A Deadline to File a Fort Knox Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Yes, there is a deadline to file a water contamination lawsuit for Fort Knox. Typically, you must file within two years of your diagnosis with a contamination-related illness. For instance, if you were diagnosed on January 1, 2024, you would generally need to file by January 1, 2026. Once the statute of limitations expires, you will no longer be able to file a claim. However, statutes of limitations may vary, so it’s best to seek legal advice as soon as possible after your diagnosis.

Get Help with Your Fort Knox Water Contamination Case

If you or a loved one have suffered health issues related to water contamination at Fort Knox, you are not alone. You deserve fair compensation for your losses, and a dedicated legal team can help you pursue it. Connect with experienced professionals who can guide you through the process. Consultations are free, so reach out to MilitaryHazards.org today to protect your rights and explore your options.

Sources:

  1. “Fort Knox’s primary water treatment plant resumes operations,” U.S. Army, https://www.army.mil/article/253928/fort_knoxs_primary_water_treatment_plant_resumes_operations
  2. “​​DoD-wide PFAS testing yields no significant preliminary findings at Fort Knox,” U.S. Army, https://www.army.mil/article/242134/dod_wide_pfas_testing_yields_no_significant_preliminary_findings_at_fort_knox
  3. “Water Quality Report 2023,” Hardin County Water District 1, https://tapwaterinfo.com/hardinco1 
  4. “Fort Knox,” U.S. Army Environmental Command, https://aec.army.mil/PFAS/KY/FTKX
  5. “Hardin County Water District #1/Ft. Knox,” EWG’s Tap Water Database — 2021 Update, https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/system.php?pws=KY0470990
  6. “Nitrate,” EWG’s Tap Water Database — 2021 Update, https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/reviewed-nitrate.php
  7. “Installation Action Plan, Final, September 2021,” Fort Knox Army Cleanup Program, https://aec.army.mil/aec/8216/5470/5029/21IAP-KY-FTKX.pdf
  8. “Trichloroethylene (TCE), NIH National Cancer Institute, https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/trichloroethylene
  9. “Tetrachloroethylene (Perchloroethylene),” EPA, https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2016-09/documents/tetrachloroethylene.pdf