Fort Bragg PFAS Lawsuit [2025 Update]

PFAS Contamination at Fort Bragg: Overview

Between 2013 and 2019, PFAS compounds were detected in several drinking water systems at Fort Bragg (now Fort Liberty), including the Eureka Springs Water System, Pre Ranger Water System, Range 7 Water System, and the Fort Bragg – Old North Utilities Services.

The highest total PFAS concentration recorded during this period was 84.1 parts per trillion (ppt), encompassing various compounds such as PFBS, PFHxS, PFHxA, PFOS, PFOA, and PFHpA.

PFAS levels detected at Fort Bragg, as reported by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) are as follows:

• PFBS 2013-2019: 9.0
• PFHxS 2013-2019: 24.1
• PFHxA 2016-2019: 5.4
• PFOS 2013-2019: 22.7
• PFOA 2013-2019: 25.6
• PFHpA 2013-2014: 13.0
• PFHpA 2016-2019: 6.4

These findings indicate that the drinking water systems at Fort Bragg may contain PFAS concentrations well above the current federal safety standards, raising concerns about potential health risks for service members and residents.

Sources of PFAS at Fort Bragg

The primary source of PFAS contamination at Fort Bragg is the historical use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) during firefighting drills and training exercises.

AFFF, which contains high concentrations of PFAS chemicals, was used extensively to combat fuel fires during military operations.

Over the years, these chemicals have seeped into the soil and groundwater, contaminating the surrounding drinking water systems and posing long-term environmental and health risks.

Other military operations at Fort Bragg, including maintenance and cleaning activities, have contributed to the widespread contamination.

As these toxic chemicals continue to persist in the environment, the long-term effects on human health and the surrounding ecosystems are becoming increasingly evident.

Despite the base’s closure and transition to civilian use, the legacy of PFAS contamination at Fort Bragg continues to affect local communities and military personnel.

Impacted Populations at Fort Bragg

The populations most affected by PFAS contamination at Fort Bragg include military service members, their families, and local residents.

Military personnel stationed at Fort Bragg, especially those involved in training exercises that used AFFF, are at high risk of exposure to PFAS chemicals.

The contamination also extends to civilians living near the base who may have used contaminated water systems or consumed PFAS-laced water.

Vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, face an even greater risk due to their heightened sensitivity to the harmful effects of PFAS.

As these chemicals accumulate in the body over time, the potential for developing serious health issues increases.

Addressing PFAS Contamination at Fort Bragg

Efforts to address PFAS contamination at Fort Bragg are ongoing, with both local and federal agencies working to reduce exposure and clean up the affected water systems.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) have taken steps to monitor contamination levels and develop strategies to mitigate the impact on public health.

In response to the contamination, the Army has implemented several remediation measures, including installing filtration systems designed to remove PFAS chemicals from the affected water supplies.

Due to the persistent nature of these “forever chemicals,” full remediation remains a challenge.

The cleanup process is expected to take years, requiring significant investment in both time and resources.

Broader Implications of PFAS Contamination at Fort Bragg

The PFAS contamination at Fort Bragg is part of a larger pattern of pollution affecting military bases across the United States.

These chemicals, often used in firefighting foam and other military applications, have led to widespread contamination of water supplies, soil, and air.

The implications of this contamination extend far beyond the military base, affecting local communities and ecosystems.

As PFAS chemicals have been detected in groundwater, drinking water, and even wildlife, the environmental impact of this contamination is profound.

In some cases, PFAS exposure has led to bioaccumulation in fish and other aquatic species, disrupting local ecosystems and threatening biodiversity.

The contamination of public water systems has forced local communities to turn to alternative drinking water sources, exacerbating the challenges posed by these toxic chemicals.

As more military sites are identified with PFAS contamination, the need for comprehensive remediation efforts and stronger environmental protections becomes more urgent.

The Fort Bragg situation serves as a stark reminder of the environmental and public health risks posed by these persistent chemicals, highlighting the importance of continued legal action and community advocacy.

What Are PFAS Chemicals and What Makes Them Dangerous?

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of human-made chemicals that have been used in a wide variety of industrial and consumer products for their ability to resist heat, water, and oil.

These chemicals are commonly found in firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, food packaging, and water-repellent fabrics.

They are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because of their persistence in both the environment and the human body.

What makes PFAS particularly dangerous is their stability.

Unlike many chemicals, PFAS do not break down naturally over time, meaning they can accumulate in water, soil, and living organisms, including humans, for decades.

These chemicals can pose long-term health risks as they persist in ecosystems and human bodies, contributing to a growing public health and environmental crisis.

Why Are PFAS Chemicals Dangerous?

PFAS chemicals are dangerous because of their persistence and bioaccumulation in the environment and human body.

Once these chemicals enter water systems, soil, or air, they can spread over vast areas, contaminating ecosystems and drinking water supplies.

Their resistance to degradation means that they accumulate over time, increasing the potential for harmful exposure.

In the human body, PFAS accumulate in organs and tissues, particularly in the liver, kidneys, and blood.

Even low levels of exposure have been linked to a wide range of serious health problems, making them a significant threat to both human health and wildlife.

The fact that they can remain in the body for extended periods amplifies the health risks, particularly in communities exposed to contaminated drinking water or working in environments where PFAS-containing products are used.

Health Risks Associated with PFAS Contamination

Exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to numerous health issues, ranging from mild to life-threatening.

These chemicals can accumulate in the body over time, increasing the risk of various chronic health conditions.

Common health risks associated with PFAS contamination includes:

• Cancer: Long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to an increased risk of kidney, liver, and testicular cancers. Research suggests that PFAS disrupt normal cellular processes, contributing to cancer development.
• Liver Damage: PFAS chemicals can cause liver toxicity and damage, leading to liver dysfunction and other related health problems.
• Thyroid Disease: PFAS exposure can disrupt the thyroid gland’s ability to regulate hormones, causing thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
• Immune System Disruption: PFAS chemicals are known to impair the immune system, reducing the body’s ability to fight infections and respond to vaccines.
• Reproductive Health Issues: PFAS exposure may cause fertility problems in men and women, and in pregnant women, it can lead to low birth weight and developmental issues in infants.
• Cholesterol Problems: Elevated cholesterol levels and metabolic disorders, such as obesity and diabetes, have been linked to PFAS exposure.

The widespread presence of PFAS chemicals in drinking water, soil, and air has made it critical to address these risks through legal action and public health initiatives.

Environmental Impacts of PFAS Contamination

The environmental impact of PFAS contamination is far-reaching and long-lasting.

Because PFAS chemicals do not break down naturally, they persist in the environment for decades, leading to widespread contamination of water, soil, and air.

These chemicals have been detected in groundwater, rivers, lakes, and oceans, posing serious threats to ecosystems.

Environmental impacts can include:

• Water Contamination: PFAS chemicals infiltrate both public and private drinking water systems, contaminating groundwater and surface water. This contamination has forced some communities to seek alternative water supplies and has raised concerns about the long-term health effects on human populations.
• Soil and Groundwater Contamination: PFAS have been found in the soil at various military and industrial sites, as well as in residential areas near areas of contamination. This can lead to the contamination of local water supplies, agricultural lands, and recreational spaces.
• Harm to Wildlife: PFAS contamination affects wildlife, particularly aquatic organisms. Fish and other animals that live in contaminated water can accumulate PFAS in their bodies, which then enter the food chain. This disrupts biodiversity and poses risks to both wildlife and humans who rely on these animals for food.
• Ecosystem Disruption: The persistence of PFAS in ecosystems disrupts the balance of natural habitats, particularly in aquatic environments. Plants and animals that rely on clean water sources are vulnerable to the toxic effects of PFAS, which can lead to long-term damage to local ecosystems.

Given their stability and resistance to natural degradation, the environmental consequences of PFAS contamination require urgent action to protect both human and ecological health.

Remediation efforts are complex, costly, and ongoing as communities and governments work to address this growing environmental crisis.

PFAS Litigation: An Overview

PFAS litigation has emerged as a critical area of legal action as communities, military personnel, and workers exposed to these toxic chemicals seek justice and compensation.

PFAS, commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistent nature, have been found in drinking water, groundwater, and soil near military bases, industrial sites, and communities.

Lawsuits related to PFAS contamination generally focus on holding responsible parties—primarily chemical manufacturers—accountable for the harm caused by their use or release of these hazardous substances.

PFAS litigation often involves complex legal challenges, including proving the link between exposure to these chemicals and the development of health conditions such as cancer, liver damage, thyroid disorders, and immune system dysfunction.

Plaintiffs typically seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and, in some cases, punitive damages.

With growing awareness of the dangers of PFAS, the number of lawsuits is increasing, and many individuals and communities affected by these chemicals are now pursuing legal action to address the lasting impacts of contamination.

Do You Qualify For the Fort Bragg PFAS Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one has been exposed to PFAS contamination at Fort Bragg (now Fort Liberty), you may qualify for the Fort Bragg PFAS lawsuit.

Those most at risk of exposure include military personnel, civilian employees, and residents of surrounding communities who relied on the base’s drinking water or groundwater.

PFAS chemicals, such as PFOA and PFOS, were widely used in firefighting foam and training exercises at military installations, and contamination at Fort Bragg has been linked to various health risks.

To qualify for the lawsuit, you must have been exposed to PFAS-contaminated drinking water or groundwater, particularly if you lived, worked, or were stationed at Fort Bragg.

If you’ve been diagnosed with health conditions such as cancer (including kidney, prostate, or liver cancer), thyroid disease, or other health problems potentially linked to PFAS exposure, you may be eligible for compensation.

Contacting an experienced PFAS attorney can help you understand your legal rights and determine if you qualify for a claim to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Gathering Evidence for PFAS Lawsuits

Gathering strong evidence is critical when pursuing a PFAS lawsuit.

The evidence you collect can help establish a direct link between PFAS exposure and the health issues you are facing.

Key evidence in PFAS lawsuits includes:

• Medical Records: Documentation of any health conditions related to PFAS exposure, such as cancer, liver damage, thyroid disease, and immune system dysfunction. These records are essential in proving the impact of PFAS contamination on your health.
• Water Testing Results: Results showing the presence of PFAS in drinking water or groundwater sources in the affected area. This helps confirm that you were exposed to contaminated water supplies.
• Employment and Service Records: Proof of military service or employment at the contaminated site, such as Fort Bragg, will help establish your exposure to PFAS during your time at the base or facility.
• Environmental Reports: Studies or environmental assessments conducted by government agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), that document the extent of PFAS contamination at the location.
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from individuals who lived or worked in the affected areas, including military personnel, civilian workers, and residents, can support your claim of exposure to PFAS chemicals.

Working with a knowledgeable attorney who specializes in PFAS lawsuits can ensure that all relevant evidence is gathered, organized, and presented effectively, maximizing your chances of success in obtaining compensation.

TorHoerman Law: Investigating PFAS Lawsuits at Fort Bragg

At TorHoerman Law, we are dedicated to investigating and pursuing justice for individuals affected by PFAS contamination at Fort Bragg and other military installations.

As a law firm with extensive experience handling environmental and toxic exposure cases, we understand the profound impact that PFAS exposure can have on both individuals and communities.

PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” have been linked to serious health conditions, including cancers such as kidney, prostate, and liver cancer, as well as thyroid disease and immune system dysfunction.

Our experienced legal team is committed to thoroughly investigating PFAS contamination at Fort Bragg and holding responsible parties accountable for the harm caused.

We are focused on helping military personnel, civilian employees, and nearby residents who have been exposed to contaminated drinking water, groundwater, or soil due to the historical use of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) and other PFAS-containing products.

Through meticulous research, gathering of medical evidence, and expert testimony, we work to build a strong case to secure compensation for victims of PFAS exposure.

Whether you are a current or former service member, civilian employee, or resident of Fort Bragg or the surrounding communities, TorHoerman Law is here to provide you with the support and legal expertise you need.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a health condition linked to PFAS exposure, contact us today for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to see if you qualify immediately.

Let us guide you through the legal process and help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.