Buckley Air Force Base and Aurora’s PFAS Dilemma: Solutions for Clean Water

Nestled in the heart of Aurora, Colorado, Buckley Air Force Base has a rich history of military service and community partnership. Yet, like many military installations across the country, Buckley faces a significant challenge—PFAS contamination. In this blog post, we’ll explore the connection between Buckley Air Force Base and PFAS, understand the impact on water quality in the Aurora community, and delve into the solutions being pursued to ensure clean and safe drinking water.

The Link Between Buckley Air Force Base and PFAS 

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have been used in firefighting foams at military bases like Buckley for decades. These foams were designed to combat aircraft fires and fuel spills. However, the use of PFAS-containing foams has led to the presence of PFAS in the soil and groundwater surrounding the base.

The Impact on Water Quality 

The presence of PFAS in the groundwater near Buckley Air Force Base raises concerns about water quality in the surrounding community, particularly for residents relying on wells for their water supply. Contaminated groundwater can seep into local aquifers, potentially affecting the safety of drinking water sources. Addressing this issue is vital for safeguarding the health and well-being of the community.

Mitigating PFAS Contamination

 Buckley Air Force Base and local authorities are actively addressing PFAS contamination:

• Site Assessments: Comprehensive site assessments have been conducted to determine the extent of PFAS contamination in the area.
• Water Quality Testing: Rigorous water testing programs are in place to monitor PFAS levels in private wells, ensuring residents have access to safe drinking water.
• Remediation Efforts: Measures are being implemented to clean up PFAS-contaminated sites and prevent further groundwater contamination.
• Community Engagement: Local authorities have engaged with the community to provide information, resources, and support to residents affected by PFAS contamination.
• Alternative Water Sources: In some instances, residents have been provided with alternative sources of clean and safe drinking water.

Conclusion: 

Navigating Toward a Cleaner Future In conclusion, the challenges posed by PFAS contamination near Buckley Air Force Base emphasize the base’s commitment to environmental responsibility and the well-being of the surrounding community. Through site assessments, remediation efforts, community engagement, and water quality testing, Buckley Air Force Base and Aurora are working together to ensure a cleaner, safer future for all residents. As research advances and innovative solutions emerge, the hope is that clean and safe drinking water will be accessible to those affected by PFAS contamination in the vicinity of the base.