Emergency Response to August 2015 Release from Gold King Mine
On August 5, 2015, EPA was conducting an investigation of the Gold King Mine near Silverton, Colorado, to:
- assess the on-going water releases from the mine,
- treat mine water, and
- assess the feasibility of further mine remediation.
While excavating above the old adit, pressurized water began leaking above the mine tunnel, spilling about three million gallons of water stored behind the collapsed material into Cement Creek, a tributary of the Animas River.
EPA is working closely with first responders and local and state officials to ensure the safety of citizens to water contaminated by the spill. The agency has activated its Emergency Operations Center to ensure coordination among its regions, laboratories and national program offices in Washington DC. EPA is closely coordinating with the officials in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Southern Ute tribe and Navajo Nation. EPA is taking the lead on efforts to contain the leak and flow from the mine is now controlled. EPA has also deployed federal On-Scene Coordinators and other technicians in Colorado, New Mexico and Navajo Nation to assist with preparations and first response activities in these jurisdictions. EPA is sharing information as quickly as possible with the community as experts work to analyze any effects the spill may have on drinking water and public health.
Photos related to Gold King Mine response
These treatment ponds were built at mines close to the Gold King Mine in Colorado. When water leaves the mines, these ponds slow it down and allow us to adjust the pH and let contaminants settle to the bottom. 
As part of our Gold King Mine response, we’ve built diversion channels to direct water flowing out of nearby mines into settlement ponds where we treat it before it enters the creek. 
As part of our ongoing response, workers are almost finished stabilizing the road to ensure crews and equipment can access the Gold King Mine. 
A kayaker paddles the Animas River minutes after the La Plata County Sheriff lifted the ban on recreational river use on August 14, 2015. (Credit: Eric Vance/EPA) 
The Animas River in Durango, CO on August 14, 2015. (Credit: Eric Vance/EPA) 
The Animas River in Durango, CO on August 14, 2015. (Credit: Eric Vance/EPA) 
Water monitoring taken in the Animas River near Durango, CO on August 14, 2015. (Credit: Eric Vance/EPA) 
The Gold King Mine entrance area is shown on August 14, 2015. (Credit: Eric Vance/EPA) 
As water exits the mine, it flows into a system of four treatment ponds. The treatment ponds provide retention time to allow the pH to adjust. Here, lime is added to a settling pond to assist in the pH adjustment of the water prior to discharge to Cement Creek on Aug 14, 2015. (Credit: Eric Vance/EPA) 
Settling ponds used to precipitate iron oxide and other suspended materials from nearby Red and Bonita mines drainage are shown in this Aug. 14 photo. (Credit: Eric Vance/EPA)
Area Command photo: Area Command staff from EPA and Coast Guard receive updates during a morning briefing.
Sampling photo: EPA team monitor water in the Animas River to assure water quality is remaining at pre-event levels.