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Sole source designation could help guard against mining impacts
A typical in-situ uranium mining test-drilling site during the exploration phase. Photo courtesy Save Our South Park Water.
By Bob Berwyn
FRISCO — South Park residents concerned about impacts of uranium mining and other forms of energy development are seeking federal protection for their water supplies under a sole source aquifer designation from the EPA.
The designation would require more in-depth review of any proposed activities that could affect water supplies. Of special concern is uranium mining near Hartsel, as well as potential development of oil and gas resources. The designation could also result in buffers and other protective measures.
Gaining the EPA designation is a multi-step process beginning Sept. 11 with a meeting of the local environmental advisory board. Citizens will offer a petition requesting the South Park county commissioners to sponsor a formal request for the designation to regional, state and federal authorities. Get an overview of the regional sole source aquifer program at this EPA website. (more…)
Filed under: BLM, Colorado, energy, Environment, public lands, water | Tagged: Colorado, Energy development, groundwater, sole source aquifer protection, South Park, South Park aquifer, uranium mining | 3 Comments »
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