Iron Creek Stockpile AML Project

The Iron Creek Stockpile Site is located in Lemhi County approximately 25 miles south of Salmon, Idaho, on the north side of Iron Creek Road 3.6 miles west of U.S. 93.  Iron Creek itself lies approximately 300 feet south of the 3.5-acre site and flows east for approximately 3.5 miles to confluence with the Salmon River.

The site consists of an approximately 700 cubic-yard rock stockpile composed of clay-rich fault gouge containing heavy metals including, but not limited to, copper.  No mine-related sites have been discovered on BLM-managed lands. The site has demonstrated potential to contaminate the adjacent Iron Creek drainage with heavy metals and sediment. 

Ownership of the stockpile has thus far been elusive.  A potentially responsible party (PRP) search has begun, concurrent with the removal action.  If a viable PRP becomes evident, cost-recovery will be pursued.  Further actions will ensure that any PRP contribution to the cleanup will be sought if possible. The land is located solely on unpatented public lands administered by the BLM.

The project will involve removal and placement of the stockpiled material into an on-site constructed PVC top-lined repository with earthen cap.  Re-contouring, vegetative stabilization and drainage controls will promote the long-term stabilization of the area and prevent potential impact to human health and the environment.

CERCLA Action Memorandum, August 29, 2011