Santa Fe Standard

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has issued a health advisory for individuals who have consumed or captured wildlife from Holloman Lake between 2010 and 2024. This follows an environmental report that reveals record levels of contamination by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in plants and wildlife.

The New Mexico Environmental Department (NMED) released the report on Monday, indicating that samples show unprecedented PFAS levels in wild animals and plants globally.

“The levels of PFAS contamination in Holloman Lake are deeply concerning, particularly for hunters who may have consumed waterfowl from the area over the past decade,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, medical director for NMDOH. “PFAS exposure has been linked to serious health problems, and we encourage anyone who has consumed game from this region and has concerns to talk to their healthcare provider.”

The NMED report calls for more testing of waterfowl and oryx samples to better assess risks to hunters beyond the immediate contamination zone at Holloman Lake/Holloman Air Force Base.

Potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure include various serious health issues. For more information about PFAS, visit the New Mexico Environment Department's webpage dedicated to this subject.

Hollomon Lake is located near Alamogordo and serves as a wastewater reservoir for Holloman Air Force Base. Although hunting at the lake has been prohibited since 2024, it remains open for camping and birding activities.

For additional information about this press release, contact Robert Nott at the office with your questions.

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Aviso de salud emitido para Holloman Lake