Our mercury problem

In an effort to get a handle on the extent of the mercury problem in Nevada, Nevada and Michigan scientists have been hired to survey it.

Dr. Mae Gustin of the University of Nevada, Reno and Dr. Frank Marsik of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, have received a $250,000 contract to “determine mercury emissions from active and reclaimed” mine operations, and “develop data that will provide a framework for comparing emissions from mining disturbed areas to undisturbed naturally mercury enriched areas in the state.

In a prepared statement, Nevada Environmental Protection Director Leo Drozoff said, “Mercury emissions from mine waste rock, heap leach and tailings areas have been the subject of much speculation and concern over the past few years. We believe this research will provide sound scientific data to help answer many of the questions surrounding this issue.”