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WATER QUALITY TREND MONITORING FROM 1979-1985 IN THE STIBNITE MONITORING DISTRICT, VALLEY COUNTY, IDAHO
Description:
The Stibnite Mining District (17060208) is located in the drainage of the East Fork South Fork Salmon River. The monitoring program was established to document any changes in water quality associated with the initiation of a large scale open pit mine and cyanide leaching plant. A total of 24 stations located on the East Fork South Fork Salmon River and its tributaries were monitored several times per operating season for sediment, turbidity, pH, and metals. Short term water quality impacts were apparent in West End Creek, Sugar Creek, and the East Fork South Fork Salmon River both within and below the mine site. Concentrations of arsenic, iron, and turbidity were significantly higher in samples collected below the mine as compared to upstream and background samples. These short term impacts were usually associated with storm events. Several more years of water quality monitoring are necessary to estimate long term trends. Klahr, P.C. January 1987. Water Quality Status Report No. 70. Department of Health and Welfare, Division of Environment, Boise, ID. 13 pp.