DOD should be more transparent about how much it will cost to clean up PFAS contamination in defense communities, the Government Accountability Office said in a new report.

“DOD has not reported future PFAS cost estimates, or the scope and limitations of those estimates, in its annual environmental reports to Congress,” the report said. “By reporting this information to Congress, DOD would ensure that Congress has increased visibility into the significant costs and efforts associated with PFAS investigation and cleanup at or near military installations.”

GAO noted there is known or suspected PFAS contamination at or near 687 military sites, which will likely take decades to clean up.

Air Force photo by Ty Greenlees