Cleanup efforts have commenced at four abandoned uranium mine and mill sites in New Mexico, marking the first projects under the New Mexico Mine Cleanup Initiative. The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), alongside the New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department (ENMRD) and contractors, is spearheading this initiative. The targeted sites lack a viable responsible party and are not included in other cleanup programs.
Environment Secretary James Kenney said, “Through the financial support of the New Mexico Legislature and with the technical expertise of our state workforce, we are making meaningful efforts to protect communities.” Miori Harms, NMED Uranium Mine Reclamation Coordinator, added that by 2026, remedial activities will be underway at these initial sites. The effort is supported by $12 million from a total $20 million appropriation by the New Mexico Legislature.
The selected sites in McKinley County include Schmitt Decline Mine, Moe No. 4, Red Bluff No. 1, and Roundy Shaft and Manol Strip Mines. These were chosen based on their proximity to residences and readiness for cleanup partnership. Teams have started on-site surveys and environmental sampling at these locations.
To maintain transparency with the public, NMED has released a quarterly report along with two videos detailing work at Schmitt Decline Mine: Site Explainer and Site Surveys available on YouTube. This initiative builds on previous transparency efforts like an interactive dashboard providing site information and cleanup status.
NMED confirmed that Las Vegas drinking water remains safe despite concerns about post-fire runoff affecting supply (https://www.krqe.com/news/new-mexico/officials-say-las-vegas-drinking-water-is-still-safe/). More sites are expected to begin cleanup in Spring 2026.
