Donald Trump's Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is planning a detention facility for children and their families on one of the most PFAS-contaminated sites in the United States, the England Airpark in Louisiana. This former military base, now a hub for deportations, has groundwater PFAS levels at least 41 million parts per trillion (ppt), far exceeding federal drinking water limits of 4-10 ppt for certain PFAS compounds.
Health Risks for Children and Families
The contamination includes not only PFAS, known as 'forever chemicals,' but also other toxic substances like TCE and VOCs, with concerns about asbestos in barracks. Public health advocates warn that children are particularly vulnerable to these chemicals, which are linked to cancer, immune disorders, and birth defects. Jared Hayes of the Environmental Working Group stated, 'There shouldn't be housing at contaminated bases.'
Proposed Facility Details
The facility would be a 'first of its kind' short-term center holding migrant families and unaccompanied children for three to five days before deportation. It is located next to a runway used for deportation flights. Project officials said the lease was being finalized and could be operational within 60 to 90 days. Immigrant rights groups argue that the 'self-deport' claim is misleading and that detainees may stay longer.
Environmental and Legal Concerns
PFAS from firefighting foam used in training exercises has contaminated groundwater and soil. The chemicals are mobile and can become airborne, posing risks through dust inhalation. The military has not begun cleanup, and the contamination plume is spreading. Deed records restrict the property to industrial use, raising questions about its suitability for housing. Advocates are exploring legal avenues to stop the plan.
