Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawsuit

Toxic drinking water at Cherry Point may have put people at risk for cancer and other illnesses. This is due to contaminants in the water.

Veterans, families, and civilians faced exposure to toxic water at Cherry Point. Many later developed serious health issues linked to contaminated drinking water.

Investigations are ongoing into whether certain entities may have contributed to contamination and whether affected individuals were adequately warned. Some law firms are evaluating whether legal claims can be pursued regarding Cherry Point water contamination. Outcomes may vary based on individual circumstances.

Have you been harmed by contaminated water at Cherry Point? Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options for yourself or a loved one.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Cherry Point Water Contamination Issue

Thinking about filing a Cherry Point contamination claim? Here’s some background info you might want to know.

History of Cherry Point

Cherry Point was commissioned in 1942 and is an airfield in Havelock, North Carolina. Construction started in November of 1941, only 17 days before the Pearl Harbor attack. This Marine Corps Air Station was initially called Cunningham Field. The base was subsequently renamed to Cherry Point.

Today, Cherry Point still supports several Marine Corps units. This includes the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.

History of Water Contamination at Cherry Point

The EPA designated Cherry Point a Superfund site in 1994 due to groundwater and soil contamination. In 2005, the EPA, U.S. Navy, and North Carolina environmental agencies entered a Federal Facilities Agreement (FFA) to address groundwater contamination and cleanup efforts.

How the Contamination Happened

The investigations found that Cherry Point’s groundwater is contaminated with PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), VOCs (volatile organic compounds), petroleum, and other harmful contaminants. Specifically, an area known as Site 90 contains groundwater contaminated with VOCs. Petroleum is also present at an area known as Site 16, a disposal site. A tar-like substance may be a source of contamination beneath a site known as Burn Pit E.

Tests conducted in 2017-2018 by the Department of the Navy found PFAS contamination in off-base drinking water at Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station. PFOS was detected at 64 ppt, and PFOA at 142 ppt. A later 2022 groundwater survey found extremely high PFAS levels on base, with PFOS reaching 372,000 ppt and PFOA at 22,100 ppt.

Health Conditions Linked to Cherry Point Contaminated Water Exposure

Some studies have examined the presence of contaminants in water and have investigated potential health impacts. However, health outcomes can vary.

Exposure to PFAS and VOCs has been studied for potential health impacts. While research is ongoing, some studies suggest possible links between exposure and the following conditions:

Cancers with Links to PFAS and VOC Exposure

• Kidney cancer – Linked to PFAS and Trichloroethene (TCE) exposure.
• Testicular cancer – Linked to PFAS exposure.
• Thyroid cancer – Evidence supports a connection to PFAS exposure.
• Breast cancer – Some studies suggest a potential link, but more research is needed.
• Liver cancer – Linked to Trichloroethene (TCE) and Vinyl Chloride (VC) exposure.
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – Linked to Trichloroethene (TCE) exposure.

Other Potential Health Effects

• Thyroid disease – Increased risk of thyroid dysfunctions.
• Immune system suppression – Reduced vaccine response, higher infection risks.
• Pregnancy complications – Increased risk of preeclampsia and low birth weight.
• Increased cholesterol levels – Higher total cholesterol levels.
• Reproductive issues – Possible fertility concerns.
• Lung issues – VOC exposure can cause respiratory irritation.

Scientific agencies, including the EPA, CDC, and National Cancer Institute, continue to study the long-term health effects of PFAS and VOC exposure. If you were stationed at Cherry Point and developed one of these conditions, you may have legal options to explore.

Toxic Chemicals Found in Cherry Point’s Water

Contaminants were found in Cherry Point’s water. These include organic compounds and toxic chemicals. Here’s a breakdown of what the tests found.

PFAS (Forever Chemicals)

PFAS are chemicals that do not break down easily in the environment. The EPA initially set a health advisory limit of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water. In 2022, the EPA issued updated health advisories, lowering its guidance levels for PFOA to 0.004 ppt and for PFOS to 0.02 ppt. These advisories are non-enforceable and meant to provide information on potential health effects.

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

VOCs can contaminate water through waste, fuel leaks, and chemical disposal. Some VOCs found in water, like trichloroethene (TCE) and vinyl chloride (VC), are linked to cancer.

Other Contaminants Found at Cherry Point

From 2014 to 2020, tests at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point found 21 total contaminants. 11 exceeded EWG health guidelines. These included disinfection byproducts that form when chlorine reacts with organic matter.

• Bromodichloromethane – 143x EWG guideline
• Chloroform – 119x EWG guideline
• Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) – 382x EWG guideline
• Dichloroacetic acid – 95x EWG guideline
• Trichloroacetic acid – 224x EWG guideline

Other detected chemicals:

• Chromium (hexavalent) – 0.0620 ppb (3.1x EWG guideline)
• Haloacetic acids (HAA5) – 408x EWG guideline
• Haloacetic acids (HAA9) – 1,013x EWG guideline

Some contaminants can remain in groundwater for years.

Cherry Point Water Quality & Cleanup Efforts

EPA & Military Cleanup Initiatives

Regulatory agencies, including the EPA, have monitored contamination at Cherry Point for years. Documents from the 2000s to early 2010s outline cleanup efforts, such as subsurface treatment and petroleum removal strategies. A Permeable Reactive Barrier with Zero Valent Iron has been implemented to help reduce contaminants in affected areas.

Ongoing Environmental Monitoring & Future Risks

The Navy has made efforts to address the contaminated soil and groundwater. In 2002, it started monitoring groundwater in the “Old Incinerator Area.” To address soil contamination, it also installed an air sparging system.

As stated above, in 2005, a formal agreement was put in place to set testing guidelines, the Federal Facilities Agreement. These guidelines outline steps for long-term water assessments to observe any environmental changes.

In 2012, Hot Spot 2, a contaminated soil area, was covered, restricting the land to industrial use.

Who Is Eligible to File a Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Some individuals may be able to take legal action due to handling the Cherry Point contamination. Here’s a quick breakdown of who may be able to file.

Criteria for Veterans, Military Families, & Civilian Workers

Veterans and others stationed at Cherry Point during the contamination may be eligible to explore legal options. Eligibility generally depends on proof of exposure to contaminated water and a related medical diagnosis.

How to Prove You or Your Loved One’s Exposure & Illness

To break it down, claimants must show proof that:

• Proof of presence – Records showing they lived or worked at Cherry Point during the contamination period. More specifically, veterans and civilians must provide records showing they lived or worked at Cherry Point during the contamination period to be eligible. These records can include military service records, housing records, or employment documents.
• Medical documentation – A diagnosis of a condition potentially linked to toxic exposure. A confirmed medical diagnosis is also needed. These diagnoses need to connect the illness to toxic water exposure.

How to File a Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawsuit

If you or a loved one were exposed to contamination at Cherry Point, you may have legal options to explore. Winder Law Firm can review your case for free, contact us today.

Steps to Take Before Filing a Claim

Here’s how to prepare to file a Cherry Point water contamination lawsuit:

1. Confirm your eligibility

Get records to show you were present at Cherry Point during the contamination period.

1. Put together medical records

Gather records linking your illness to toxic water exposure.

1. Consult with an attorney

Consult a qualified attorney to review your case and legal options.

Documents & Evidence Needed for Your Case

A Cherry Point lawsuit generally requires evidence to support a claim, such as:

• Proof of Physical Presence During the Contamination

Military records, housing documents, or employment history at Cherry Point.

• Medical Issues Due to Exposure to Contaminated Water

Diagnosis, treatment history, and expert opinions that link your condition to water contamination.

Why Hiring a Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawyer Can Be Beneficial

A lawyer can help review your claim, organize essential records, and explain the legal process.

Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawsuit Settlement & Payouts

Any potential compensation will depend on multiple factors, including legal arguments, evidence, and case-specific details. These may include the extent of exposure and documented health effects. While past contamination cases have shaped legal strategies, each Cherry Point case will be evaluated on its own facts.

Compensation Details

If liability is established, affected individuals may be eligible to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, compensation is not guaranteed and will depend on individual case factors, legal proceedings, and supporting evidence.

Factors That Affect Your Settlement Value

• Medical Diagnosis & Evidence

Severe conditions with strong supporting medical records may be considered in compensation evaluations.

• Exposure Time & Conditions

Exposure duration and contamination levels may be considered in case evaluations, but outcomes depend on individual circumstances.

Past Military Water Contamination Case Payouts

For informational purposes only: The Camp Lejeune case involved contamination-related claims. In 2023, three settlements collectively totaled $850,000. This figure reflects settlements in that specific case and does not predict or determine outcomes for Cherry Point lawsuits, which will be assessed separately based on their unique facts and legal arguments. Cherry Point claims are evaluated independently, and any compensation, if awarded, will be based on individual case factors, legal arguments, and available evidence.

Individual amounts are likely to vary, though, based on the specific circumstances of each individual.

Disclaimer: Our firm didn’t handle this case. This info is for reference only. Past results don’t guarantee future outcomes. Cherry Point claims are evaluated separately and independently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Cherry Point Water Safe to Drink Now?

Water samples from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point’s public supply system were collected on August 17, 2023, and results received on March 7, 2024, showed no detectable PFAS concentrations in the tested drinking water. These results apply only to the on-base water system, and testing will continue every two years as required by DoD policy.

Did Cherry Point have contaminated water?

Yes, past studies have identified contaminants in Cherry Point’s water. Some research has examined potential health effects related to these substances.

What Are the Main Contaminants in Cherry Point Water?

The contaminants include chemicals like PFAS (forever chemicals), VOCs, and petroleum-based pollutants.

How Do I Know If I Qualify for a Lawsuit?

Eligibility for a lawsuit depends on various factors, including a history of exposure at Cherry Point and a medical diagnosis. A legal professional can assess your potential claim.

How Long Does the Lawsuit Process Take?

The legal process takes time, and it varies from case to case. It may take a few months or a few years. The timeline may depend on evidence gathering, settlement negotiations, and court proceedings. If parties are willing to settle, the case may be resolved more quickly. If the case goes to trial, it may take much longer.

Contact a Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawyer Today

A lawyer can help you file a Cherry Point water contamination lawsuit. They can review your case and discuss legal options.

Free Case Evaluation – No Fees Unless Compensation is Recovered

Winder Law Firm works on a contingency basis, meaning clients do not pay unless they receive a settlement or award. We also offer a free evaluation to look at your case.

Get the Legal Help You Deserve

If you or a loved one were exposed to contamination at Cherry Point, a legal professional can assess whether you qualify to file a claim. Our team can assist in evaluating your case and guiding you through the legal process. We will walk through the legal process with you. We also work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless compensation is recovered. To learn more about our services, contact us today for a free case evaluation!