Why is the water in the Pit allowed to rise higher and higher? Why wait to pump and treat contaminated water?
PITWATCH readers have asked these questions repeatedly. It’s hard for residents to understand why something isn’t being done right away to deal with the toxic water in the Pit. For the parties responsible for the problem and for any adverse impacts from the water, the reasons for waiting are a combination of science, time and money. In general, the Berkeley Pit is considered a big holding tank with a well-defined capacity. Based on years of scientific study, the EPA and MDEQ have determined that the water in the Pit does not and will not pose a threat to human health or the environment as long as the level stays below the 5,410 feet above sea level. This conclusion is part of the Record of Decision that dictates Berkeley Pit management. As owners responsible for water treatment, Montana Resources and ARCO are trying to use the Pit “storage space” in the most effective way. Any delay reduces costs to operate and maintain a treatment facility. Annual costs are expected to exceed $3 milli
