Klondyke Tailings (a/k/a Aravaipa Creek Mine Tailings) Klondyke, Cochise County,Arizona, Region 9. CERCLIS No. AZ0000309294

摘要

The objective of this health assessment is to provide an evaluation of the healthrisks that may result from exposure to abandoned mine tailings in Klondyke, Arizona. Environmental data indicate that the 70,000 cubic yards of tailings that remain on the property have contaminated the soil and nearby creeks with heavy metals. This report evaluates the potential pathways of human exposure to the contaminated media. The contaminants of concern further evaluated are lead, arsenic, and cadmium, mercury, manganese, and boron. Child health issues and community concerns are also an integral part of the evaluation. Chronic systemic toxicity in adults and children is evaluated using reasonable maximum exposure scenarios based upon reported site usage and observations from site visits. The potentially complete routes of exposure to the contaminants of concern are inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact with soils and dry river bed sediment. The nearby creeks, into which tailings appear to be eroding, would also draw recreational swimmers and bathers. Dermal absorption and ingestion of surface water from the creeks is also a potential hazard that is evaluated. Fish from the creek may also be consumed by residents and visitors, and thus ingested metals may also be of concern. The results of the analysis suggest that the site, as it currently exists, does not pose a health risk to nearby residents, campers, swimmers, or ATV users. The consumption of fish from Aravaipa Creek also does not present an apparent adverse health risk.