Fort Dix Water Contamination Lawsuit

Understanding PFAS Contamination at Fort Dix

Fort Dix is one of many military bases with a history of PFAS in its drinking water. Groundwater testing at the McGuire section of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in 2019 detected PFOS and PFOA concentrations as high as 264,000 parts per trillion. This data was compiled by the Environmental Working Group from Department of Defense reports. The site ranks among the most highly contaminated military installations in terms of PFAS exposure.

History of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst

Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, commonly known as Fort Dix, was formed on July 18, 1917. Fort Dix was formally established and named in honor of Maj. Gen. John Adams Dix, who was a veteran of the War of 1812 and the Civil War. Dix also served as a U.S. senator, U.S. Treasury secretary, minister to France, and governor of New York.

The base has also helped train Reserve and National Guard soldiers. Moreover, the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center is based there. It is well known for its extraordinary training programs that significantly contribute to the USAF’s mission.

Toxic PFAS Chemicals Found on Base

In 2018, the Union of Concerned Scientists conducted a national analysis of PFAS contamination. The study found that levels at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst were up to 24,000 times higher than the health limit recommended by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).

Department of Defense testing had previously reported PFOS and PFOA concentrations as high as 264,300 parts per trillion. For comparison, ATSDR lists about 11 ppt for PFOA as a screening level, but it’s not a legal standard.

Contaminated Water Detected on Base

Dangerous contaminants have been detected in the drinking water on and near the base, prompting concerns about health and the environment.

Groundwater samples taken on the McGuire section of Fort Dix in 2019 showed PFOS contamination as high as 260,000 parts per trillion (ppt) and a combined PFOS + PFOA concentration of 264,000 ppt, far above even the federal guidance of 70 ppt at the time.

The suspected source of this PFAS contamination is firefighting foam, which has been historically used at the military base for training and emergency response purposes.

Tests also found high levels of other PFAS-related chemicals, including PFBS (7,200 ppt), PFNA (4,700 ppt), and PFOA (23,000 ppt), in the base’s groundwater. This indicates a broad spectrum of chemicals associated with PFAS contamination.

Previous Superfund Site Designation

Due to hazardous waste disposal at the Fort Dix Landfill, a 126-acre section of the former Fort Dix base was proposed for listing as a Superfund site in 1984 and was later added to the National Priorities List.

The listing aimed to address contamination from both municipal and chemical waste, including solvents such as methylene chloride and trichloroethylene. The site was officially delisted in 2012 after cleanup and long-term monitoring were deemed adequate. However, the broader Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst has never been designated as a Superfund site.

State of New Jersey Takes Action

As PFAS contamination levels exceeded federal guidelines, some agencies and residents raised alarms about water safety. New Jersey sought action from the federal government to take PFAS contamination seriously and clean up the toxin.

In 2021, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection filed a civil action against the U.S. federal government. The lawsuit alleged that military facilities in the state had contaminated local water supplies with PFOS and PFOA. According to the complaint, the contamination violated New Jersey’s drinking water standards and posed a substantial threat to public health.

What is PFAS, and How Does it Affect Health?

PFAS are artificial chemicals used in all kinds of products. PFAS are also known as ‘forever chemicals,‘ which means that once they are released into the environment, they do not break down easily and can persist for decades. PFAS are chemicals that do not break down easily in the human body either.

Some studies suggest PFAS exposure may be associated with cancer risks, but research is ongoing. The EPA initially set a non-binding health advisory limit of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water.

In April 2024, the EPA finalized its first-ever enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels, setting legal limits at 4.0 parts per trillion (ppt) for both chemicals. Public water systems have until 2031, now extended from 2029, to comply with these stricter standards.

Health Risks Linked to Fort Dix Water Contamination

Cancer and Other Serious Health Conditions

Some studies suggest a possible link between PFAS exposure and certain cancers, but research is ongoing. Here are some of the possible types of cancer in question:

• Prostate Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Liver cancer
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Testicular Cancer
• Thyroid Cancer
• Thyroid Disease

If you were stationed at Fort Dix and later developed one of these conditions, you may want to explore your legal options. If eligible, you may be able to pursue compensation through a Fort Dix water contamination lawsuit.

Other Health Problems

Some studies have associated PFAS contamination with a range of serious health issues.

Among other conditions, PFAS exposure can lead to:

• Higher cholesterol
• Changes in liver function
• Reduced immune response
• Thyroid disease
• Reproductive issues

These issues are not cancer-related, but they can still harm overall health. Some studies suggest that these health effects may occur after prolonged exposure to certain PFAS in drinking water; however, research is ongoing.

If you were exposed to PFAS at Fort Dix and developed health issues, you may have legal options.

Key Contaminants Found in Fort Dix Water

Contaminants include tetrachloroethylene (PCE), trichloroethylene (TCE), per- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), benzene, and more.

Main Contaminants Besides PFAS 

• Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)

Tetrachloroethylene is a nonflammable solvent. It is often used in dry cleaning, metal degreasing, and wood processing. It evaporates slowly at room temperature and can contaminate soil or water if discarded improperly.

• Trichloroethylene (TCE)

Trichloroethylene is a nonflammable, colorless liquid with a mild, sweet smell. It is often used to remove grease from metal parts. Although it doesn’t occur naturally, it can contaminate groundwater due to industrial use and improper disposal.

• Benzene

Benzene is a colorless or light-yellow liquid found in crude oil, gasoline fumes, and cigarette smoke. Over time, exposure may raise the risk of leukemia and other blood disorders.

Environmental Impact of Fort Dix Water Contamination 

As stated earlier, firefighting foam seeped into the ground when used during military training at Fort Dix. Over time, the foam has been cited in investigations as a possible source of PFAS in groundwater. Some reports suggest that PFAS may have migrated through groundwater to nearby lakes and rivers. These findings have led some organizations and residents to raise concerns about possible risks to local drinking water.

A study posted in October 2021 acknowledged the presence of PFAS in Little Pine Lake and Pine Lake, which are adjacent to Fort Dix. Little Pine Lake water samples had a PFAS concentration of 279.5 ppt, and Pine Lake had a concentration of 170.7 ppt. Both lakes are located near Fort Dix, which has raised concerns about contamination of nearby aquifers that supply drinking water to those on and near the base.

How to File a Fort Dix Water Contamination Lawsuit

Filing a lawsuit can be complex. It can be helpful to have supporting evidence, such as medical records and residency history. Below are common steps to consider if you qualify for a Fort Dix water contamination claim.

Steps to Take Before Filing a Claim

• Track Where and When You Used the Water
• Note the dates you lived, worked, or spent time on or near Fort Dix. Keep any relevant orders, leases, and records of your time there.
• See a Doctor for an Evaluation
• Ask your physician about possible PFAS exposure and if you or a loved one has a related condition. Keep copies of test results and treatment notes.
• Talk to a Lawyer Early
• An attorney can explain your options and help you understand the filing deadlines. They can also advise on the strength of your potential case.

What Evidence Can Support Your Lawsuit?

• Proof of Presence
• Gather proof of having lived at or near Fort Dix during the period of contamination. You can show your work order, housing records, or other similar official documents.
• Medical Records
• Gather medical records and test results that may help support your case if you’ve been diagnosed with a related illness. Seek comments and diagnosis from medical professionals. This information may support your case if medical or legal experts determine a connection to PFAS exposure.

• Official Notices and Reports

• Any base-related water testing data or environmental reports can help. This may help confirm the presence of specific contaminants in the water supply.

Working with a Fort Dix Lawsuit Attorney

Individuals affected by the Fort Dix water contamination may have legal options. A lawyer can help you understand and meet deadlines. They can prepare documents and handle negotiations.

According to the information given above, you can see if you may qualify to file a case.

You can request a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal rights.

Eligible individuals may be able to seek compensation by filing a Fort Dix water contamination lawsuit. Potential settlements and awards in these toxic water cases depend on various factors. Each situation is unique. Compensation depends on the severity of the disease and losses suffered.

Settlement Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique, and compensation depends on individual circumstances.

How Much Can You Expect to Receive?

There’s no set compensation amount for a Fort Dix water contamination lawsuit. Any settlement or award would depend on the details of each case.

Factors Possibly Affecting Compensation Amounts

• Severity of illness
• In many cases, the severity of illness can affect compensation outcomes if a claim proceeds.
• Duration of exposure
• Long-term exposure to contaminated water may strengthen your lawsuit. However, shorter-term exposure, with strong evidence, can also be considered.
• It can help to have someone negotiate on your behalf. No lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome, but they can help to evaluate your legal options.

Eligibility for Filing a Fort Dix Water Contamination Lawsuit

Who May Be Eligible to File a Lawsuit?

• Military Personnel and Veterans
• Military residents on or near Fort Dix during the contamination period may have been exposed to PFAS in the water.
• Civilian Employees and Contractors
• Other civilians or contractors who used water from Fort Dix or nearby sources may also qualify, depending on their circumstances.
• Spouses or Dependents
• Family members of military personnel stationed at Fort Dix may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

Get a Free Consultation About Fort Dix Water Contamination

Note: Fill out the form or call to see if legal options may be available. Inquiries will be shared with a partner law firm under a marketing arrangement to assist with next steps.

If you or a loved one were exposed to contamination at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (Fort Dix), you may have legal options. Eligibility depends on your specific circumstances.

You can request a complimentary legal consultation to explore potential legal options.