You had questions, we have resources
How badly are they affecting birds and wildlife?It would be most interesting for updates on the birds, waterfowl and turtles visiting the ponds
We don't have a lot of data about how heavy metals are affecting birds and wildlife. We agree, it'd be great to know more.
Is there danger of any of the dikes breaching?
Yes, there is always a risk of dams, dikes, levees etc breaking or being breached. They are typically designed for major flood events, but even more major flood events (i.e. Yellowstone River this spring) can occur or other natural disasters (i.e. earthquakes).
Can the toxic sediment be removed?
What will be done with the sediments if/when removed?
Yes, the contaminated sediment could be removed. Where does one put a lot of contaminated sediment? This would need to be determined.
Are there good walking and biking trails?
Yes!
Can my dog drink the water and not die?
We don't know (the wildlife drink it though). Consider reaching out to U.S. EPA.
Yes, one option is to cover the ponds which is called 'capping' them.
Can the toxic deposits be left in place?
Are there educational outings? We have noticed that people are better at creating their rules of behavior if educated on cause and effect of actions with regard to nesting sites, beginning flora on very latent soil etc
Yes! There were less during the pandemic. The Clark Fork Coalition organizes educational events stay tuned.
I have a concern about dust being blown off the general area by the wind, I don't know if this is a serious issue or not.
We are unaware of data on this topic.
I think the agencies know about groundwater concerns. There were no questions about that in the survey. Did you look into that?
We did not, but would be good to look into!
Is it worth the cost to remove the contamination or better to leave it alone?
These are the big questions -
all of the options have social, ecological and economic tradeoffs - which is why the. U.S. EPA requires public input in the superfund process.
Answers to Superfund Reclamation and Restoration by Clark Fork Watershed Education Program
More Resources Below
Warm Springs Ponds Information:
Citizens Technical Environmental Committee (CTEC) – Warm Springs Ponds
Includes background information, record of decision documentation and five-year reviews of Warm Springs Ponds
Provides background, policy announcements, and community resources
Provided by: Montana Natural Resource Damage Program
Future of the Warm Springs Ponds:
See events page
How you can be involved:
Agencies & organizations contact
links for questions:
Butte/Clark Fork Superfund Complex Information:
An overview infographic
Their website offers a wealth of information on history of superfund, relevant public health concerns, Butte superfund sites, Clark Fork superfund sites
Provides background, policy announcements and community resources
Provides background, policy announcements and community resources
Has site-specific information on Clark Fork, Upper Clark Fork, Anaconda, Butte, and Silver Bow Creek Operable Units