$200k to clean up mine-impacted areas

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $200,000 (£130,292) to clean up mine-impacted sites in Colorado. The Lower Willow Creek Restoration Company will use the cash to cap and […]

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $200,000 (£130,292) to clean up mine-impacted sites in Colorado.

The Lower Willow Creek Restoration Company will use the cash to cap and remove contamination in a target area known as the Floodplain Property, a former mine waste processing activities site.

Primary contaminants of concern include arsenic, lead and zinc, the EPA said.

The project aims to re-vegetate the impacted area with a layer of clean soil and improve groundwater and water quality in Willow Creek.

It is expected to help the boost local economy while protecting public health and the environment.

Shaun McGrath, EPA Regional Administrator said: “EPA Brownfields grants are helping communities like Creede address environmental risks and improve the quality of important local water resources. These types of investments not only address contamination, they also create new opportunities for people to live, play and do business.”

There are an estimated 450,000 abandoned and contaminated sites in the US.

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