The Anaconda Copper Mine is an abandoned open pit copper mine in Lyon County, Nevada. Photo by Kelapstick via Wikimedia Commons

The Yerington Paiute Tribe and the Walker River Paiute Tribe are welcoming the placement of an abandoned mine in Nevada on the Superfund National Priorities List.

The Anaconda Copper Mine Site is already a Superfund site and a priority listing will lead to more federal funds. The state long opposed such a designation but Gov. Brian Sandoval (R) agreed after he said the Environmental Protection Agency promised to work with the tribes and local governments.

“We are very proud of the announcement from Governor Sandoval’s office today and the amazing group of residents, local government and businesses that have come together with us to support this needed effort," Yerington Paiute Chairwoman Laurie Thom said in a press release. "We look forward to continued cooperative efforts in working together to maintain the sustainability of our region.”

“This decision is the best outcome for our entire community. On behalf of the Walker River Paiute Tribe, we extend our gratitude to Governor Sandoval for providing leadership during these negotiations,” Walker River Paiute Chairman Bobby Sanchez said.

Anaconda is an open pit abandoned mine in Lyon County. It's located about 9 miles south of the Yerington Paiute Reservation and about 26 miles west of the Walker River Paiute Reservation.

The site has contaminated local wells with uranium, arsenic, lead and other toxic chemicals, the Associated Press reported.

Get the Story:
Nevada Backs Priority Superfund Status for Toxic Mine (AP 3/29)
Nevada backs priority Superfund status for Anaconda mine (KOLO 3/29)