Heavy Metals in Water: What's Happening in New Mexico After the Big Fire?

In New Mexico, a big fire called the Calf Canyon Hermits Peak fire left a mark. Now, people are worried about their water. Heavy metals have been found in some private wells near the fire area. The New Mexico Environment Department is offering free tests for well water in parts of Mora, San Miguel, and Taos counties. Over 300 people have already signed up for the tests. The department can test up to 430 wells. They are working with Eastern Research Group to do this. The goal is to find out what's in the water and then clean it up. Wildfires can cause heavy metals to get into the water. This can happen from burned buildings, mining, or natural metals stirred up by the fire. But a recent study found high levels of heavy metals in some long-term fire retardants. This raised questions about whether the contamination is linked to the retardants used to control the 2022 fire. Four metals found in the area—antimony, arsenic, cadmium, and uranium—are above safe limits set by the EPA. Manganese levels are also high. Other metals like barium, chromium, copper, lead, thallium, and vanadium were found but are within safe limits.The New Mexico Department of Health advised residents to test their wells and use bottled water until they know their water is safe. Mora officials helped organize water donations. The state also provided a water tank for people to use. Long-term exposure to heavy metals can be bad for health. It can damage kidneys, skin, the heart, and the nervous system. Children and pregnant women are especially at risk. A geology company found sudden increases in heavy metals in the area. They think it might be linked to fire suppressants used in the 2022 fire. A study from the University of Southern California found high levels of metals in fire suppression products. But it's hard to prove if the metals in the water came from these products. The Forest Service says they don't add heavy metals to their fire retardants. They are working with the community to find the source of the contamination. Experts say it's a good idea for people with private wells near wildfires to test their water regularly.