While surface water and sediment sampling and testing show that conditions have returned to normal, the EPA has continued its testing activities in the interest of caution. The draft monitoring plan said the agency will continue taking water quality, sediment quality, biological community and fish-tissue samples at 23 sites across the spill’s trajectory, which includes portions of Cement Creek, the Animas River, the San Juan River and Lake Powell.
The EPA is accepting comments from Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, the Navajo Nation, the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute tribes, and various local governments.
“EPA has been sampling conditions since the spill to ensure the safety of residents in the watershed,” EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy said. “This monitoring plan represents the next phase of this important work and reflects our commitment to continue working closely with state, local and tribal officials to evaluate the potential impacts of the spill.”
EPA Testimony Statements -- http://www.epa.gov/ocir/hearings/testimony/113_2013_2014/2013_2.htm
Alerts Sign-up