Wurtsmith Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit [2024 Update]

PFAS Contamination at Wurtsmith Air Force Base

Wurtsmith Air Force Base (AFB) in Oscoda, Michigan, is a significant site of concern for contamination by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to breaking down in the environment.

This contamination has raised health and environmental concerns, especially for local residents and ecosystems dependent on nearby water sources.

Historical Use of Firefighting Foam at Wurtsmith AFB

One of the primary sources of PFAS contamination at Wurtsmith AFB is the historical use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).

This foam, widely employed by the U.S. military since the 1970s to combat petroleum-based fires, contains PFAS chemicals.

These substances were used extensively at Wurtsmith AFB in:

• Firefighting training exercises
• Emergency responses to aircraft fuel fires
• Routine maintenance and testing in aircraft hangars

During these activities, AFFF seeped into the soil, ultimately contaminating groundwater and nearby surface water bodies such as Van Etten Lake and Clark’s Marsh.

The former fire training area of the base is located near the southwest corner of Wurtsmith AFB.

The highest concentrations of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances are found near this location, migrating into nearby Clark’s Marsh.

Extent of PFAS Contamination at Wurtsmith AFB

Investigations by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and the U.S. Air Force have confirmed significant PFAS contamination in and around the base.

PFAS concentrations have been detected in groundwater, soil, and surface water at levels far exceeding state and federal health advisory limits.

Key findings include:

• Elevated PFAS levels in groundwater: Testing has revealed levels of PFOS and PFOA—two of the most dangerous PFAS chemicals—far above the EPA’s limit of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for drinking water.
• Contaminated drinking water sources: Nearby private wells and public water systems have shown PFAS levels that pose significant health risks.
• Contamination in local ecosystems: PFAS have been detected in wildlife, including fish from Van Etten Lake and animals in Clark’s Marsh, raising concerns about the broader environmental impact.

Wurtsmith AFB served as one of the primary training facilities for World War II combat crews and bomber pilots, and was later repurposed during the Cold War as a key Strategic Air Command base, housing nuclear-capable bombers and supporting U.S. military operations until its closure in 1993.

Wurtsmith AFB also played a support role during the Persian Gulf War, serving as a bomber training base during the conflict.

Due to its use for military aircraft and training purposes, the former base consistently saw the use of AFFF throughout its history.

Health Risks Linked to PFAS Exposure

The contamination at Wurtsmith AFB presents significant risks to human health, particularly for residents relying on local water sources.

PFAS exposure has been linked to:

• Cancer, including kidney and testicular cancers
• Thyroid disease
• Immune system suppression
• Liver damage
• Developmental issues in children and fetuses
• Hormonal disruptions and high cholesterol levels

Remediation Efforts at Wurtsmith AFB

Efforts to address PFAS contamination at Wurtsmith AFB have included testing, monitoring, and limited cleanup initiatives.

The U.S. Air Force and state agencies have undertaken actions such as:

• Groundwater treatment systems: Construction of systems to pump and treat contaminated groundwater to reduce PFAS concentrations.
• Site inspections and investigations: Conducting remedial investigations to assess the full extent of contamination.
• Provision of clean drinking water: Providing alternate water supplies to residents with contaminated wells.
• PFAS Preliminary Assessment: Conducting initial evaluations to identify potential sources of PFAS contamination, affected areas, and pathways for exposure to prioritize cleanup efforts.

Concerns from Local Communities and Environmental Advocates

Despite ongoing remediation efforts, residents and environmental groups remain concerned about the pace and effectiveness of the cleanup at Wurtsmith AFB.

Key concerns include:

• The slow progress in addressing contamination hotspots
• Potential health risks from prolonged exposure
• Limited transparency and communication from the Air Force regarding cleanup timelines

Impact on the Great Lakes Region

Wurtsmith AFB’s contamination also highlights broader environmental concerns for the Great Lakes ecosystem.

PFAS from the base have the potential to migrate into the Au Sable River, a vital waterway that supports local fisheries and feeds into Lake Huron.

This poses risks not only for Oscoda residents but also for communities throughout the region.

What are PFAS Chemicals and Why Are They Dangerous?

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals widely used across industries for their durability and resistance to heat, water, and oil.

Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS are highly persistent, remaining in the environment and the human body for decades without breaking down naturally.

Originally developed for applications like non-stick cookware, water-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foams, PFAS have become a significant environmental and health concern.

Their use in firefighting foams, particularly on military bases and at airports, has led to widespread contamination of soil, water, and air.

When PFAS seep into groundwater, they can taint drinking water supplies, exposing surrounding communities to these hazardous chemicals.

The health risks of PFAS exposure are alarming.

These chemicals accumulate in the body over time, increasing the likelihood of severe health conditions such as certain cancers, liver damage, thyroid disease, immune suppression, and reproductive issues.

Vulnerable groups, including children and pregnant women, face heightened risks due to the long-term effects of PFAS on developing bodies.

The environmental impact of PFAS contamination is equally troubling.

Wildlife exposed to PFAS often suffer health effects similar to humans, and these chemicals can move up the food chain, ultimately affecting entire ecosystems.

The persistence and toxicity of PFAS make their cleanup both technically challenging and costly, compounding their long-term environmental threat.

Health Effects of PFAS Exposure

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to numerous health issues, even at minimal levels.

These chemicals disrupt essential biological functions, leading to chronic and potentially life-threatening conditions.

Research indicates that PFAS interfere with hormonal balance, compromise immune responses, and cause lasting damage to critical organs.

Common health effects associated with PFAS exposure include:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid disease
• Liver damage
• Immune system suppression
• High cholesterol
• Developmental effects in fetuses and infants
• Reduced vaccine efficacy in children
• Hormonal disruptions
• Reproductive health issues

Studies, including data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), have detected PFAS in the blood of the majority of the U.S. population, underscoring the prevalence of exposure.

This widespread contamination highlights the urgent need for action to mitigate PFAS risks to both public health and the environment.

PFAS Litigation: An Overview

Lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers and chemical companies are emerging due to the significant health and environmental harm linked to these chemicals.

Plaintiffs argue that corporations failed to adequately warn the public about the dangers of PFAS, despite evidence of their persistence and toxicity.

Legal claims often seek compensation for medical expenses, cleanup of natural resources, and property devaluation.

A major focus of PFAS litigation is contaminated drinking water.

DuPont, a leading PFAS manufacturer, settled over 3,000 claims for $670 million related to PFAS exposure near its West Virginia factory.

Communities near military bases like Wurtsmith Air Force Base face challenges from PFAS contamination caused by firefighting foam use.

These lawsuits not only aim to secure compensation but also push for stricter regulation and accountability for PFAS contamination.

Who are Potential Defendants in PFAS Lawsuits?

Defendants in PFAS lawsuits include major chemical and manufacturing companies responsible for producing or distributing PFAS in consumer products and firefighting foam.

Many lawsuits allege these companies knew of PFAS’s risks but continued manufacturing and selling these harmful substances without proper warnings.

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) manufacturers have become primary targets in litigation, as this firefighting foam has led to widespread groundwater contamination at military and industrial sites.

Potential Defendants in PFAS Litigation include:

• 3M
• DuPont (and its spinoff, Chemours)
• Tyco Fire Products
• Kidde-Fenwal
• Chemguard
• Dynax Corporation
• Corteva, Inc.
• AGC Chemicals
• BASF Corporation
• Solvay Specialty Polymers
• Daikin America

Do You Qualify for the Wurtsmith Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit?

Exposure to PFAS-contaminated water poses severe health risks, including cancers, immune disorders, and liver damage.

Contaminated drinking water near Wurtsmith Air Force Base has impacted families, service members, and surrounding communities, leaving them vulnerable to long-term health complications.

This exposure highlights the urgent need for action to mitigate PFAS pollution and provide clean, safe water.

If you or a loved one were exposed to PFAS-contaminated water at or near Wurtsmith Air Force Base, contact our law firm for a free consultation.

Use the chat feature on this page for an instant case evaluation.

Lawyers are investigating potential PFAS claims against manufacturers responsible for contamination at military installations like Wurtsmith AFB.

Gathering Evidence for a PFAS Claim

Building a successful PFAS claim requires strong evidence to connect exposure to health impacts.

Organizing relevant documentation is critical to supporting your case and demonstrating how PFAS contamination has affected you.

Evidence for a PFAS Lawsuit may include:

• Medical records detailing health conditions linked to PFAS exposure
• Water testing results indicating PFAS contamination in drinking water
• Employment or residency records showing time spent near contaminated sites
• Expert testimony linking health conditions to PFAS exposure
• Environmental studies documenting contamination in affected areas

Our team can assist you in gathering and organizing this evidence to strengthen your claim.

Contact us today for a consultation and to discuss your eligibility for a PFAS lawsuit.

TorHoerman Law: Investigating PFAS Lawsuits Near Wurtsmith Air Force Base

Toxic PFAS chemicals have been detected in water surrounding Wurtsmith Air Force Base (AFB), raising significant health and environmental concerns for local residents and ecosystems.

PFAS contamination is a nationwide issue, particularly near military installations where firefighting foam has been heavily used.

Exposure to PFAS-contaminated water has been linked to numerous health conditions, including cancers, immune system suppression, and thyroid disease, as well as widespread environmental damage.

Our PFAS lawyers are actively investigating claims against chemical companies and manufacturers who were aware of the risks but failed to warn the public.

If you or a loved one have suffered serious health problems due to PFAS exposure at or near Wurtsmith AFB, you may be eligible to file a claim.

Contact TorHoerman Law today for a free consultation.

Use the chat feature on this page for an instant case evaluation to determine if you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit.