EPA withdraws water permit for Black Mesa

Copyright © 2009
Gallup Independent
By Kathy Helms
Diné Bureau

WINDOW ROCK — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 9 has withdrawn a water discharge permit for the Black Mesa Mine Complex following an appeal by a coalition of tribal and environmental groups.

Region 9 issued the decision Nov. 30. The agency plans to prepare a new fact sheet for a new draft permit and provide an opportunity for public comment. EPA said it will hold public hearings on the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Reservation.

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