ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - The U.S. Forest Service is seeking public comments on a recommendation on how to clean up waste rock piles from past uranium mining activities at the San Mateo mine site northeast of Grants.
The agency has prepared an engineering evaluation and cost analysis to evaluate several cleanup options, and is recommending that the rock piles be consolidated offsite. The waste then would be covered, revegetated and topped with what the agency calls an armor of rock.
The Forest Service says that would reduce the potential for erosion during storms and reduce the potential risk of exposure to gamma radiation and direct contact with the waste.
Public comments will be accepted through Jan. 15.
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