(173aj) An Analysis of Abandoned Mines in Texas

Background: There are many mines located throughout Texas, totaling about 353 sites. Mines main purpose is to extract useful resources and minerals from the earth including copper, lead, uranium, and coal. Many mine sites had incomplete mining closure or improper reclamation that resulted in harmful effects on the soils, plants, crops, animals, and water. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate uranium mines and identify various remediation methods to abolish the environmental concerns in Texas. Methods: In this qualitative study, data was collected and analyzed using various resources. Twenty-three uranium mines were studied and examined in this research. Results: It was found that uranium mines contaminated its area through radioactive dust and toxins. Those issues have been swept under the rug due to Texas regulating flexibility for mining companies to set its own regulations. Conclusion: The prices and demand for uranium have fallen dramatically since 2007. Since then, many uranium mining sites have shut down and left unwanted hazards to the environment. To protect the general welfare and environment, government authorities and local communities are working to address these problems with different remediation programs.