EPA to Downs: Stop dumping
Posted at: 01/25/2012 3:08 PM
The Environmental Protection Agency has told the Downs at Albuquerque and EXPO New Mexico to stop dumping animal waste, industrial run-off and other pollutants into the Rio Grande.
The EPA order affects the 93-acre race track and casino, which accommodates almost 1,400 horses during racing season.
“Companies must operate in a way that protects vital water resources,” said EPA Regional Administrator Al Armendariz in a statement. “When a facility fails to meet its responsibilities, the EPA will work closely with our state partner agencies to enforce the law.”
On November 15, 2011, the New Mexico Environmental Department conducted an on-site inspection and found that the facility lacked a properly designed storm water runoff containment structure.
The facility also does not have a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit which allows facilities to discharge into US waters.
Pollutants commonly associated with animal waste or manure often include nitrogen and phosphorus, organic matter, bacteria and sediments.
These pollutants can clog rivers and streams with algae, kill fish by reducing oxygen in the water, transmit waterborne diseases and impair the enjoyment of waterways.
To comply with the order, the EPA says the Downs and EXPO New Mexico must immediately take all necessary actions to prevent future discharges of pollutants into U.S. waters – and must tell the EPA if they ever happen again.
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