Fort Polk
Fort Johnson South, LA
Known Toxins1
Years of Operation1941-Present
Base Background
Located in Louisiana and established in 1941, Fort Polk serves as a major training center for the Army. The base is currently in the PA/SI phase, investigating potential PFAS contamination to inform future remediation strategies. According to the U.S. Army Environmental Command, Fort Polk’s drinking water systems are monitored, and wells exceeding PFAS thresholds will trigger mitigation.
Toxic Exposure and VA Claims
Because Fort Polk is under active investigation for PFAS contamination, there is emerging evidence of possible exposure pathways (especially via water systems) that veterans may use to support their claims. However, the presence of a PFAS investigation does not itself guarantee VA acknowledgment of exposure. Veterans will still typically need to show individual connection: unit assignment, location on base near impacted water systems or foam use sites, duration of exposure, medical records, etc. Our VA disability lawyers are experienced in toxic exposure claims and may be able to help.
Because cleanup and investigation are ongoing, new documents, sampling results, and reports may emerge – staying current with VA news and Army, EPA, and base‑level environmental releases is important for claim development.
Known Toxins
The following chart outlines the medical conditions associated with toxic exposure at this base, classified by the strength of evidence required (strong, good or limited).* Please keep in mind that it is not a complete list.
| Toxin | Potential Effects | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strong | Good | Limited | ||
| PFAS (Firefighting Foam) | Potential Effects | - | - | Testicular cancer Renal (kidney) cancer... Prostate cancer |