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EPA Issues Administrative Order to Doe Run for Cleanup at Leadwood Mine Tailings Site, Leadwood, Mo.

Release Date: 10/02/2006
Contact Information: Debbie Kring, (913) 551-7725, kring.debbie@epa.gov

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Environmental News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Kansas City, Kan., October 2, 2006) – EPA has issued an Administrative Order to the Doe Run Co. of St. Louis, compelling the company to perform cleanup activities at the Leadwood MineTailings Site in Leadwood, Mo.

Contaminated mine waste, commonly referred to as tailings or chat, has been carried off site by wind and storm-water runoff for many years. As a result, residential properties have become contaminated with lead and zinc. The site consists of approximately 560 acres, the majority of which is owned by Doe Run.

Exposure of young children to lead can cause irreversible damage to the brain and central nervous system, resulting in impaired growth development, lower IQ levels, and behavioral problems. EPA Regional Administrator, John Askew, stated, “This action is being taken to protect the health of children and families who live and play near the site.”

Doe Run is required by the order to stabilize the mine waste within two years of EPA’s approval of their work plans and design specifications. EPA issued the order to Doe Run after determining that a settlement could not be reached between the parties.

All information about this site can be found at the following information repositories:

■EPA Records Center, 901 North 5th St., Kansas City, Kan.
■St. Francois County Health Dept., 1025 West Main St., Park
Hills, Mo.
■Desloge Public Library, 300 North Lincoln St., Desloge, Mo.