Environmental Compliance

EAFB is regulated by state and federal agencies and must comply with environmental regulations.  Compliance with these regulations helps us be good stewards of our environment, supports our mission by allowing continuous operation of the installation, and keeps funding directed towards mission critical items by avoiding fines.

Learn more about our environmental compliance here. 

 

PFCs

Perfluorinated compounds graphic
Perfluorinated compounds, or PFCs, are a group of manmade chemicals that have been used for a wide variety of residential, commercial and industrial uses. PFCs are classified as emerging environmental contaminants because they do not have established regulatory standards, but evolving science has identified potential risk to humans and regulatory standards are under consideration. The Air Force Civil Engineer Center is aware of PFC releases on active-duty and closed installations and is working in coordination with state and federal regulators to identify affected sites and, when necessary, take responsive action. Please read our FAQ below in response to Moose Creek and Eielson specific questions.

Click here for PFCs/Eielson timeline of events and more info

FAQ's

I'm ready to schedule an installation for my home, who do I call?
To schedule an installation please contact the Air Force Maintenance Contractor at (907) 456-4751 ext. 120.

If I run out of bottled water, is there somewhere I can get more?
In the event that you run out of bottled water, there is an emergency supply at the Moose Creek Lodge and at the Moose Creek Fire Station. If you are having issues with your water delivery, you can also contact the 354th Fighter Wing's public Affairs at 377-2116 or the Air Force Maintenance Contractor at (907) 456-4751 ext. 120. 

I haven't received any water deliveries in a week or more? How do I get that resolved?
If you are haven't received your usual shipment of bottled water you can contact either the 354th Fighter wing Public Affairs at 377-2116 or the Air Force Maintenance Contractor at (907)456-4751 ext. 120.

What are PFCs?
Perfluorinated compounds, or PFCs, are a group of manmade chemicals that have been used for a wide variety of residential, commercial and industrial uses. PFCs are classified as emerging environmental contaminants because they do not have established regulatory standards, but evolving science has identified potential risk to human health and regulatory standards are under consideration.

Where do PFCs come from?
PFCs are used in a large number of products ranging from nonstick cookware, fabric waterproofing compounds, some food packaging and aircraft fire fighting agents for both civilian and military use.

What is a provisional health advisory?
The EPA has issued a provisional health advisory for two forms of PFCs known as "PFOA" and "PFOS." A provisional health advisory helps determine a good place to start looking at what level of contaminant should be addressed when no science has determined a maximum exposure level.

My water has been tested before, why wasn't I told about this before?
PFCs are considered an emerging contaminant as of recently. This means that the greater science community had not been aware of the potentially negative health effects of these compounds, therefore nobody had been looking for it. Since the EPA alerted Eielson leadership to the potential presence of these compounds in base drinking water, we have been working quickly to respond to any compound that poses any potential threat to the health of our Airmen, their families or our neighbors.

Why are you providing me bottled water?
If you are receiving bottled water it is because your well test has come back with results over the provisional health advisory level. As a precautionary measure, we are providing bottled water for you to drink, cook and give your pets. We are providing up to 70 gallons a week, per residence.

Should my pets drink the provided water?
Though there has been no conclusive health effects found in animals, as a precautionary measure, we advise you provided bottled water to your pets.

Can my well be drilled deeper to avoid PFCs?
PFCs are known to be present at least 100 feet into the groundwater, so drilling new wells will not likely avoid these compounds.

Can I water my garden with well water?
Department of Environmental Conservation regulations (AS 46.03.710 & AS 46.03.745) prohibits the continued use of contaminated wells for all purposes, including watering gardens.

I've been sick recently, is it because of PFCs?
The Air Force relies on the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), under the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), for guidance on health based actions. To date, ATSDR has not conducted a nationwide health study to determine what, if any, health effects from PFOS/PFOS exposure can be substantiated and what actions should be taken.

How do I get my well tested?
Please fill out the "Well Survey Form" found in the document section to the right. Once it is completed, either scan and email it to
354fw.pa.publicaffairs@us.af.mil or mail it to:

Public Affairs
354 Broadway Ave, Suite 15A
Eielson AFB, AK 99702