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EPA TO BEGIN NEW WORK AT SULPHUR BANK MINE

Release Date: 8/4/2000
Contact Information: Leo Kay,U.S. EPA,415-744-2201, Ellen Manges, Project Manager, 415-744-2228

     Helicopter flyovers to be followed by geothermal well closures

     SAN FRANCISCO   U.S. Environmental Protection Agency officials will start work on two new projects at the Sulphur Bank Mercury Mine Superfund Site on Clear Lake next week in order to better characterize groundwater flows and properly seal old geothermal test wells.

    Beginning as early as Tuesday, a Department of Energy helicopter will fly over a one-mile radius around the site to perform a geophysical survey that will characterize groundwater patterns and flows.  The light utility, twin-turbine engine helicopter will hover at about 200 feet above the ground and lake with a torpedo-like electro magnetic sensor system trailing below.  The readings should identify geologic and mining-related fracture zones   underground fissures that could allow contaminated water to move away from the site.  The data will help EPA officials develop a long-term plan to address mercury releases from the site.

   The flyovers, which will last three to four days, will be very visible to residents and recreational visitors on the Oaks Arm of Clear Lake.  The helicopter will not fly at night or directly over buildings and residences.

     The flights could be delayed at the last minute if the helicopter is reassigned to fight wildfires, however, if the survey occurs as planned, the EPA will be at the mine site on Aug. 9 starting at 5 p.m. to showcase the helicopter and its high-tech gadgetry, and also answer questions about the mine cleanup.  New schedules will be provided if the flights are delayed.

     By the end of August, work crews will begin building a new road on the site that will allow drilling trucks and other heavy equipment to access several old  geothermal test wells that will be properly sealed and closed later this year.  The road building will include some minor blasting, but work crews will minimize the disturbance to local residents.

     "We have a lot of activities planned for the Sulphur Bank Site this year, and we want to make sure everyone is aware of   and comfortable with   what will be taking place," said EPA Project Manager Ellen Manges. "Through a series of upcoming meetings with the local community, we hope to devise a final cleanup plan that is protective for both Clear Lake residents and the local ecosystem.  The helicopter flights and the well closures will help carry us toward that goal."