The EPA is tackling one of the biggest wildfire cleanups in U.S. history, teaming up with the California National Guard and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to clear hazardous waste in Los Angeles County. With the Palisades and Eaton fires leaving behind massive destruction, this effort isn’t just about removing debris—it’s about protecting public health, restoring the environment, and keeping water supplies safe. This cleanup is a big deal, as wildfires can have lasting impacts on water quality and infrastructure.

The Scale of the Cleanup

With over 13,000 homes and 250 businesses affected, the EPA has deployed nearly 500 personnel, expecting that number to surpass 1,000 in the coming days. The National Guard will use the Sepulveda Basin as a staging area to help coordinate the cleanup, ensuring a swift and efficient response.

Water professionals—whether in well drilling, groundwater management, or municipal water treatment—should pay close attention to this effort because wildfires can have lasting impacts on water quality. Here’s why:

#1. Toxic Runoff Threatens Groundwater and Drinking Supplies

Burned structures release hazardous chemicals, including lead, arsenic, and heavy metals, which can seep into groundwater or be carried into rivers and reservoirs by stormwater runoff.

The faster hazardous materials are removed, the lower the risk of long-term water contamination.

#2. Increased Demand for Groundwater and Well Drilling

Many affected communities rely on private wells for drinking water. Post-fire, contaminated wells may need remediation or replacement, creating a surge in demand for well drilling and water testing services.

#3. Infrastructure Damage Requires Long-Term Solutions

Burned pipelines, damaged water treatment plants, and disrupted distribution systems require immediate repair and future resilience planning.

Water professionals must be ready to assist in rebuilding efforts and ensuring affected communities regain access to clean, safe drinking water.

What’s Next?

As EPA’s Phase 1 cleanup progresses, homeowners and businesses are urged to exercise caution when returning to their properties. Meanwhile, water professionals should monitor the situation, as the demand for contaminant testing, water treatment solutions, and well drilling services is expected to rise.

The success of this wildfire recovery mission will have long-term implications for water safety, environmental resilience, and the role of the industry in disaster response efforts. Water industry leaders, well drillers, and environmental specialists must stay engaged, be prepared, and play a role in rebuilding a more resilient water infrastructure for the future.