What contaminants were found in Mora County wells after the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire?

Dangerous levels of heavy metals, including arsenic, aluminum, manganese, and antimony, were detected in private wells.

Who is responsible for the contamination in Mora County?

Fire suppressants used during the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire are suspected as the likely source of the contamination.

Will FEMA compensate Mora County fire victims for well contamination?

FEMA will consider claims for contamination damages, but claimants must prove "injuries and causation."

Home / Environment / Fire's Toxic Legacy: Wells Contaminated Post-Blaze

Fire's Toxic Legacy: Wells Contaminated Post-Blaze

26 Nov

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Summary

Private wells in Mora County tested positive for heavy metals.
Fire suppressants are suspected as the source of contamination.
FEMA faces pressure to cover contamination damages for fire victims.

Fire's Toxic Legacy: Wells Contaminated Post-Blaze

In Mora County, New Mexico, residents Darleen and Johnathan Ortiz face a grave new challenge following the 2022 Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire. Their private well, once a reliable source, now shows dangerous levels of heavy metals like arsenic and aluminum, suspected to stem from fire suppressants used during the blaze. This discovery adds a significant burden to their recovery efforts, which already included restoring their acequia system damaged by post-fire debris flows.

Approximately 72 private wells in the burn scar area have recently tested positive for similar contaminants. Geologist Kate Zeigler identified these hazardous levels, prompting concern across the community. While county officials state public wells remain uncontaminated, U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández is convening meetings to address testing and remediation costs, pushing for solutions and urging FEMA to cover damages related to this new contamination.