The New Mexico Environment Department announced on March 12 that it has entered into four agreements with Curry County dairies to investigate and remediate groundwater contaminated by toxic PFAS from Cannon Air Force Base.
According to the department, these agreements represent a significant step toward full remediation of a four-mile toxic PFAS plume caused by firefighting foam at the base. The department is leading the initiative, funding the effort, and seeking reimbursement from the United States Air Force. “We have stood in solidarity with our dairy industry since the toxic PFAS contamination was discovered in their water, land, herds, workers, and family members. Through our partnership, we will learn how to manage and treat the toxic PFAS contamination under Curry County that will remain unaddressed by the U.S. Air Force until 2032 or later,” said Environment Secretary James Kenney.
At a public meeting in January 2026 held by the U.S. Air Force, the department offered to lead cleanup efforts outside of Cannon Air Force Base and requested funding from the U.S. Air Force for this initiative. The department reiterated its proposal in a letter sent on January 28 but has not received a response due to an ongoing lawsuit between New Mexico and the federal government. As a result of this contamination, Highland Dairy in Curry County was compelled to euthanize more than 3,600 dairy cows poisoned by PFAS.
The announcement follows several state initiatives aimed at protecting Curry County residents from PFAS contamination linked to Cannon Air Force Base. In Fall 2024, the department launched a blood testing program offering free tests for adults who lived or worked near Cannon Air Force Base; results showed that 99.7% of participants had PFOS—a form of PFAS—in their blood. In October 2025, $12 million was appropriated by the New Mexico Legislature to extend public drinking water systems east of Cannon Air Force Base for affected private well owners. By March 6, 2026, forty-seven free water filters had been installed for private well owners in affected areas.
Multiple lawsuits are ongoing regarding accountability for this contamination plume; so far, over $12 million has been spent on legal and technical costs related to these cases.
The New Mexico Environment Department also confirmed that Las Vegas drinking water is safe following close monitoring after post-fire runoff from Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon Fire could have impacted supply (The New Mexico Environment Department).
Further details about these agreements and ongoing remediation efforts can be found as listed on the official roster page.
