Firefighters Wore Gear Containing “Forever Chemicals.” The Forest Service Knew and Stayed Silent for Years.

ProPublicaCenter-LeftEN 7 min read 100% complete by Abe StreepFebruary 10, 2026 at 06:40 PM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

Internal correspondence obtained by ProPublica reveals that the U.S. Forest Service knew as early as 2021 that wildland firefighters' gear contained PFAS "forever chemicals," linked to negative health impacts, but did not disclose this information. Despite inquiries from ProPublica in February 2024, the Forest Service initially stated they lacked specific data on PFAS in protective clothing. However, emails show officials were aware of PFAS in firefighters' pants and debated informing firefighters in April 2022, ultimately delaying disclosure pending a study on skin absorption. The agency's silence has drawn criticism from former employees like George Broyles, who accuses them of obfuscation regarding firefighter health risks. While the Forest Service claims commitment to mitigating occupational risks, they declined to answer specific questions about PFAS in gear.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States 40% George Broyles ×250% Department of the Interior ×260% ProPublica ×470% U.S. Forest Service ×790%

Keywords

pfas 100% forever chemicals 90% wildland firefighters 90% firefighter gear 80% u.s. forest service 70% health risks 60% cancer 50% occupational risks 50% transparency 40%