Cleanup Cost Of Old Copper Smelter Site Lowered

A new study estimates the cost of removing toxic tailings from a former copper smelter site near the Butte Civic Center will cost much less than previously thought.

The recent study by Montana Tech engineering professor Butch Gerbrandt finds that the cost will be between $12.9 million to $15.3 million rather than the $20 million estimated in 2009.

Gerbrandt based his results on recent testing at the site that found 320,962 cubic yards of toxic tailings and clay. That's much less than the 666,200 cubic yards from the previous estimate.

Butte-Silver Bow Planning Director Jon Sesso says that the cost estimate gives planners important information on removal options. Planners are still reviewing those options.

Associated Press