By AP/KWMU
St. Louis, MO – The Environmental Protection Agency says Doe Run Company and other entities have three years to clean up piles of lead mine waste in the eastern Missouri town of Park Hills, near Farmington.
The agency says the piles are causing lead and zinc contamination of surrounding properties and the Flat River. The state has issued fish consumption warnings on some species in the river.
The order calls for stabilizing 150 acres of lead-contaminated mine waste at the site in Park Hills to prevent wind and water erosion. It's expected to cost $17 million.
The EPA issued the order after attempts to negotiate an agreement failed. The order also was issued to NL Industries; the city of Park Hills; and the Park Hills Chamber of Commerce.