Holloman Lake within Holloman Air Force Base has been open for hunting, camping, and bird watching, but this changed in 2024 with the prohibition of hunting. Dr Miranda Durham, NMDOH medical director, stated, “The levels of PFAS contamination in Holloman Lake are deeply concerning.” She warned specifically, “Hunters who may have consumed waterfowl from the area over the past decade. “Anyone who has consumed waterfowl from the area over the past decade…is encouraged to talk to their healthcare provider.”
The New Mexico Environmental Department showed the “highest PFAS levels ever recorded in any wild animal and plant worldwide.”
The NMDOH stated the “NMED report highlights the need for additional testing of waterfowl and oryx samples.”
According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry website:
The health risks are related to:
- Exposure factors (e.g., dose, frequency, route, and duration).
- Individual factors (e.g., sensitivity and disease burden).
- Other determinants of health (e.g., access to safe water and quality healthcare)
Potential Health Risks:
- Increases in cholesterol levels
- Lower antibody response to some vaccines
- Changes in liver enzymes Pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia
- Small decreases in birth weight
- Kidney and testicular cancer
Learn more about PFAS in New Mexico:
