Lake Holloman, a seemingly quiet desert lake to the west of Alamogordo, New Mexico, is revealed as an environmental hotspot for PFAS pollution.
A comprehensive study by researchers at the University of New Mexico Southwestern Biology Museum (MSB) found that the lake was identified as the epicenter of an ecological crisis that may have started more than 30 years ago.
The study is based on the initial findings of 2021, and records unprecedented levels and levels of synthetic compounds known as polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) – eternal chemicals, in almost every component of the lake ecosystem.
These chemicals are known for their sustainability in the environment and for their potential health risks to both humans and animals.
The highest PFA concentration ever recorded
The researchers conducted extensive testing on a wide range of environmental samples, including lake water, sediments, soil, algae, plants, fish, birds, reptiles and mammals. The findings are astounding:
Kangaroo rat liver contained 120,000 ng/g of PFA. It is more than 10,000 times the EPA’s drinking water limit. One plant sample recorded the highest PFA concentration ever recorded in vegetation. Lakewaters tested PFA better than previously recorded waters.
These extreme concentrations are thought to be attributed to the historical use of PFA-containing aqueous membrane formation foams (AFFFs) at nearby military facilities, particularly Holloman Air Force Base.
PFAS pollution is growing across the lake
Holloman Lake itself is highly contaminated, but researchers have confirmed that the toxic footprint extends far beyond the coast.
In fact, the highest soil PFA levels were detected downstream of the lake in Playa swamps stretching towards White Sands National Park.
The historic flow of water from the lake appears to carry pollutants through this vast playa system. This is an important habitat for migratory birds during seasonal rains.
Animal and water mobility throughout the region raises concerns that PFA contamination could become much more widespread than originally envisaged.
Natural Research Institute for PFAS Research
With a unique combination of desert hydrology, gypsum soil, and high wildlife densities, Holloman Lake offers researchers an unusual opportunity to study PFAS environmental behavior in real-world conditions.
This study focuses on patterns consistent with laboratory models, such as the length of PFAS molecules and how the presence of minerals such as salts and clays affects transport and accumulation.
This will make Holloman Lake a “natural laboratory” for understanding how PFAS compounds move through ecosystems, providing valuable insights to help inform national policies regarding chemical pollution.
Risks to wildlife and humans
Contamination poses a clear risk to wildlife. Researchers discovered a deadly con man chick near the nest at the highest PFA level recorded in birds, raising concerns about reproductive toxicity and long-term impact on species. Sensitive species like snowy Poover can be particularly at risk.
However, the threat does not stop with wildlife. The lake was once open to public hunting, but is visited by thousands of other game animals such as waterfowl and Orix.
Using PFA that can bioaccumulate in tissues, the possibility that contaminated meat may enter the food chain poses serious concern for human health.
In fact, the New Mexico Environmental Division has raised a red flag over the possibility of aquifer contamination and is working with researchers to monitor the water wells for the extent of PFA penetration.
Impact on migratory birds and hunters
One of the most pressing concerns is the role of migratory birds. These birds contaminated at Lake Holloman may carry PFA to marshlands in New Mexico and beyond.
As part of a broader risk assessment, University of New Mexico scientists are currently working with local Hunter and the Ministry of Game and Fish to track bird movements and assess exposure risks on other sites.
This evolving study highlights how local pollution can spill outwardly and threaten the wider ecosystems and communities far beyond sources.
Seek for continuous monitoring and repairs
Findings at Holloman Lake highlight the urgent need for long-term environmental surveillance and restoration efforts in New Mexico.
As PFA contamination is currently recognized as a global issue, this study serves as a rigorous reminder of the hidden costs of industrial chemicals and the need for more comprehensive environmental monitoring.
As scientists continue to unravel the full extent of pollution, Lake Holloman stands as both a warning and an important source of knowledge in the fight against PFA pollution.
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