March 25, 2007--New findings on abandoned mines in southwest Colorado (USGS)
Researchers with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) have evaluated what different geologic, hydrologic, and biologic studies are most effective in cleaning up the watersheds affected by mining in southwest Colorado, and recently published their findings on-line and in print. USGS Professional Paper 1651, "Integrated Investigations of Environmental Effects of Historical Mining in the Animas River Watershed, San Juan County, Colorado." Acid drainage and toxic metals are a legacy of mining in many mountain watersheds throughout the western United States. Application of the watershed approach has shown that it provides a cost-effective method for selecting abandoned mines for cleanup and restoration that can be applied by Federal, State, and local stakeholders groups and private entities.
To view the full article, visit the USGS. For a copy of the original article contact the WIP at (970) 247-1302 or stop by the office at 841 East Second Avenue in Durango.