New dashboard reveals uranium mine risks in New Mexico

A new online dashboard launched by New Mexico helps locals and officials understand the dangers of closed uranium mines and mills, highlighting ongoing health and environmental risks.

Noel Lyn Smith reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• New Mexico's history with uranium mining, crucial for its nuclear program, has left numerous abandoned sites posing ongoing risks.
• The interactive dashboard provides detailed information on these sites, including locations, historical operators, and regulatory actions.
• Aimed at a wide audience, the tool aims to simplify access to information and raise awareness about the legacy of uranium mining in the state.

Key quote:

"We want to make the information on former uranium mining sites in New Mexico as easy as possible to access."

— Miori Harms, uranium mining reclamation coordinator.

Why this matters:

This dashboard not only educates but also connects a local issue to broader national concerns about environmental remediation and public health.