The Buzz
Arizona's abandoned mines
Jan 12, 2024
The podcast delves into the dangers and environmental impact of Arizona's abandoned mines, including efforts to locate, seal, and clean up these sites. Topics covered include arsenic remediation, mine closure efforts, historical mining in Yavapai County, challenges in managing stakeholders' needs, and the lack of regulation in historical mining operations.
27:11
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Quick takeaways
- Abandoned mines in Arizona pose dangers of falling and environmental contamination.
- Efforts include sealing mines with consolidation cells and tracking sites for mitigation strategies.
Deep dives
Arizona's Abandoned Mine Problem
Arizona faces a significant issue with abandoned mines, with estimates varying from 1,300 to over 200,000 in the state. The dangers associated with these mines include risks of individuals or animals falling into deep shafts and environmental concerns due to mine waste. During a trip to Yavapai County, six abandoned mines in the Black Hills area were being sealed by the Forest Service to prevent access. The process involved excavating contaminated waste and covering it with clean material.
