According to the Department, the asbestos ore was mined from open pits producing chrysotile asbestos. The site is made up of a network of mine and mill buildings and structures, and two significant mill tailings piles estimated at 29-20 million tons. The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) has been investigating the property due to significant erosion in the asbestos waste piles, which they believe is migrating off site into nearby streams and wetlands.

An official news release from the Vermont Department of Health dated Nov. 6 said there is an immediate need for additional investigation of the impact of the mine, and the potential for increased asbestos-related health risks for people who live nearby. The EPA is in the early stages of evaluating the site for potential listing on the Superfund National Priorities List (NPL), which would make it eligible for federal funding for a comprehensive cleanup of the site, according to the release.

The Health Department is hampered in its evaluation of the impact of the mine because there is not much information available about the levels of exposure – whether people inhaled asbestos, where, how much, or over what period of time.

The statement quotes Health Commissioner Wendy Davis, MD, as saying, “It is extremely important that Vermonters stay off the mine, and we recommend that you contact your health care provider if you are concerned that you may have been exposed to asbestos.”

A report by FOX Channel 44 serving Burlington and Plattsburgh featured an interview with an Eden resident who wished to remain anonymous. The resident is quoted as saying there was so much asbestos drifting from the mine that at some times the ground appeared to be dusted with snow.

SOURCE: myMeso › New study links old asbestos mine to increased health risk