In 2022, groundwater at Mather AFB tested positive for dangerous levels of certain PFAS.
These results found PFAS at levels exceeding established EPA guidelines for clean drinking water.
PFAS contamination found at detectable levels in groundwater at Mather AFB in 2022 (reported by the Environmental Working Group):
- PFBS (Perfluorobutanesulfonic Acid): 34 ppt
- PFHxS (Perfluorohexanesulfonic Acid): 309 ppt
- PFNA (Perfluorononanoic Acid): 1.3 ppt
- PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid): 134 ppt
- PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid): 111 ppt
These elevated levels of toxic chemicals raise concern for residents relying on public water systems and private drinking water wells in surrounding communities.
Sources of PFAS at Mather Air Force Base
The primary source of PFAS contamination at Mather Air Force Base is the historical use of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam widely used on military installations during training exercises and emergency responses.
AFFF contains high concentrations of PFAS chemicals such as PFOA and PFOS, which leach into groundwater and soil during routine application or accidental spills.
Additional contamination may have resulted from improper storage, disposal of firefighting materials, and runoff from aircraft maintenance activities.
As these hazardous substances persist in the environment, they continue to pose serious health and ecological risks for decades after initial exposure.
Impacted Populations at Mather Air Force Base
Those most at risk from PFAS contamination at Mather Air Force Base include military personnel who served at the installation, civilian employees, and residents of nearby neighborhoods who may have been exposed to contaminated drinking water.
Surrounding communities relying on private drinking water wells or public water supplies face increased risk, particularly those living near areas where PFAS levels were highest.
Vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, and individuals with preexisting health conditions, may be more likely to suffer serious health consequences such as thyroid disease, testicular cancer, and other PFAS-linked illnesses.
Because PFAS accumulate in the body, even low-level but prolonged exposure may result in significant long-term health effects.
Addressing PFAS Contamination at Mather Air Force Base
Efforts to address PFAS contamination at Mather AFB fall under a larger Department of Defense initiative to investigate and clean up toxic substances at military superfund sites.
The EPA and other agencies have coordinated PFAS testing, environmental assessments, and water sampling as part of the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR).
Advocates and public health experts argue that more comprehensive remediation is needed, including expanding PFAS testing, treating contaminated water systems, and monitoring health outcomes through a national disease registry.
A robust cleanup process is essential to reduce PFAS levels and ensure safe drinking water for nearby communities.
Broader Implications of PFAS Contamination at Mather Air Force Base
The PFAS contamination at Mather Air Force Base is part of a broader national crisis involving toxic exposure at dozens of military bases across the United States.
Mather’s case reflects systemic issues in chemical oversight, the military’s historic reliance on AFFF, and the slow pace of regulatory response.
Scientific studies continue to confirm that PFAS exposure is linked to higher incidence rates of certain cancers, immune system disorders, and other adverse health effects.
The findings at Mather underscore the need for more research, stricter PFAS regulations, and public transparency to protect surrounding communities and ensure environmental accountability.
Without timely intervention, the health risks of PFAS pollution will persist for generations.
