September 2, 2015: EPA Update on Gold King Mine Response: Additional Data Results

WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released an update on sediment samples from the Animas and San Juan Rivers and surface water samples from the Animas River.

What data is EPA posting today?
EPA surface water samples collected on August 16, 17, 20, 21, 23 and 24 from locations in the Animas River.

EPA sediment samples collected on August 28th from locations along the Animas and San Juan Rivers.

What do the sample results show?
EPA has reviewed the data which includes comparison to screening levels for exposure during recreational use. The metal concentrations of the samples are below surface water and sediment/soil recreational screening levels, and are being maintained at pre-event conditions. Based on previous monitoring events, it has been shown that metal concentrations may fluctuate from time to time because of water surges due to heavy rains or other events that may change the water flow rates or volume.

To view the data: https://www.epa.gov/goldkingmine/emergency-response-monitoring-data-gold-king-mine-incident