PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • August 19, 2025
It was one year ago this week that 1,450 gallons of aqueous film-forming foam concentrate mixed with 50,000 gallons of water and spilled into the area surrounding Brunswick Executive Airport’s Hangar 4. The airport is part of the former naval air station and is known as Brunswick Landing. The foam contains a toxic PFAS compound, one of several so-called “forever chemicals” that have been linked to serious health problems. Statewide, PFAS contamination stemming from the use of sewage sludge as fertilizer has been found in at least 100 farms and 500 residential properties as of this year, and experts say more is likely to be found as testing continues.The environmental disaster in Brunswick prompted outcry from members of the community and beyond and led to new laws aimed at ensuring a similar spill never happens again in Maine. But many nearby property owners like the Carslicks still have questions about the long-term impact.