Widespread PFAS contamination at Camp Smith has sparked significant concerns about long-term environmental and health risks for military service members, civilian workers, and surrounding communities.
These toxic “forever chemicals” — including compounds like PFOA and PFOS — have been detected in drinking water supplies and groundwater, where they can persist for decades.
Because PFAS chemicals accumulate in the human body over time, even low levels of exposure may lead to serious health problems.
Published by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), PFAS chemicals were detected at the following levels in groundwater at Camp Smith in 2018:
- PFOA: 3.8 ppt
- PFOS: 51.0 ppt
These concentrations significantly exceed the Environmental Protection Agency’s 2024 Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) of 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS, indicating serious environmental and public health concerns related to past use of firefighting foams and other PFAS-containing materials.
Sources of PFAS Exposure at Camp Smith
PFAS exposure at Camp Smith stems largely from the routine use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam, specifically aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), during training drills and emergency response exercises.
This foam, used for its ability to quickly suppress fuel-based fires, contains high concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—a group of synthetic, toxic chemicals linked to long-term environmental and health risks.
Improper disposal, leaks, and storage of PFAS-based products at the military installation have also contributed to PFAS pollution in the surrounding soil and groundwater.
These hazardous chemicals have migrated into the drinking water systems, leading to PFAS contaminated water being detected in and around Camp Smith.
PFAS compounds have also been found in other materials used on military bases, such as water-repellent gear and cleaning agents, further increasing the scope of contamination.
Who May Be Exposed to PFAS at Camp Smith
Military service members stationed at Camp Smith are among the most likely to be exposed to PFAS, particularly those involved in fire safety training or operations that utilized AFFF.
Civilian workers and contractors on the base, as well as nearby residents who rely on local drinking water supplies, may also face PFAS exposure from contaminated groundwater.
Family members of service members living in base housing may have consumed PFAS contaminated drinking water without being aware of the potential health risks.
Given PFAS chemicals’ persistence in the environment and the human body, even individuals who lived or worked at Camp Smith years ago may still face serious health consequences.
The Environmental Working Group and other public health advocates have raised significant concerns about PFAS levels at many military installations, including Camp Smith, due to their links to serious health problems such as thyroid disease, kidney cancer, and other adverse health effects.
