Media Release, 27th Special Operations Wing

CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. – Cannon Air Force Base hosted an impromptu environmental compliance inspection from the New Mexico Environment Department Resource Protection Compliance and Enforcement Bureau, here, from July 14 to 15.

The inspection, conducted by NMED’s Hazardous Waste Bureau, assessed Cannon’s management of hazardous waste generated through base operations in accordance with permits issued in December 2018.

During the two-day visit, NMED examined 39 facilities. The review focused on hazardous waste generation, including inspections of central and satellite accumulation areas and secondary containment zones. Additionally, the review included interviews with 27th Special Operations Wing personnel to verify proper procedures for handling, storing, and disposing of hazardous waste.

Inspectors also audited training records, disposal documentation, and program records to confirm compliance with NMED regulations.

While NMED sought to collect samples for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the Air Force could not authorize PFAS sampling due to ongoing litigation over NMED’s authority to regulate PFAS as a hazardous waste. However, Cannon did offer sampling opportunities for hazardous waste covered by its permit.

The last inspection took place in 2023, as these inspections are typically conducted biennially.

Cannon AFB remains committed to complying with applicable Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) requirements and to maintaining transparency in PFAS remediation and response efforts. Additionally, the Air Force continues to investigate and address past PFAS releases at Cannon AFB and shares its findings with NMED and the public. These efforts fall under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act

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