Toxins from Iron King Mine have Dewey-Humboldt Residents Concerned

Environmental testing solutions for abandoned mines include testing for hazardous waste, toxins, particulates and groundwater contamination. All of these analyses are available from LA Testing.

Los Alamitos, CA

The Iron King Mine and Humboldt Smelter encompass over 300 acres on the outskirts of the Central Arizona town of Dewey-Humboldt. Although it has been decades since either was in operation their legacy is still felt by area residents. Several thousand residents call the area home and many have concerns over their health due to the former mining operations.

Last month a report was released by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding their remedial investigation report and feasibility study of the Superfund site. Hundreds of acres are covered by tailings, smelter ash and multiple retention ponds.

The report found high levels of toxic metals and contamination of groundwater. The report states however that due to the toxins’ low mobility much of the danger is highly localized to the area on and immediately around the two sites. The report also notes that for some of the toxins, including lead and arsenic, it is difficult to determine if the levels are due to the past mining operations or due to natural background conditions from the area’s geological makeup.

LA Testing, one of California’s largest environmental testing laboratory networks and part of the EMSL Analytical family of laboratories, provides analysis for all types of toxic waste left from mining operations. “The West Coast and Southwest is filled with countless abandoned mines and mining operations,” reported Ben Sublasky, National Director of Client Services for LA Testing and EMSL Analytical. “Heavy metals and other toxins can leach into groundwater and winds can often blow contaminated particulates into other areas, including places that people call home. LA Testing provides all types of analytical solutions for determining if surface, soil, water or air samples contain dangerous contaminants.”

To learn more about environmental testing services to protect people and the environment please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794.

About LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, Inc.
LA Testing and EMSL Analytical are providers of environmental testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The companies have an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Ben Sublasky

National Director of Clients Services/Operations Manager

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

Contact via E-mail