| ||
|
EPA orders Downs
of Albuquerque to halt discharges Albuquerque, NM - Jan. 31, 2012 - The Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Protection Agency has issued an order against the Downs at Albuquerque and EXPO New Mexico to stop discharges into the Rio Grande. The EPA ordered a halt to discharges of animal waste, industrial runoff and other pollutants into the river. The facility has a 93-acre racetrack and casino that accommodates up to 1,400 horses during racing season. The New Mexico Environment Department conducted an on-site inspection on Nov. 15 and found the facility did not have a properly designated storm water runoff containment structure, nor does it have a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit allowing facilities to discharge to waters in the U.S. Animals wastes can contain nitrogen and phosphorous, organic matter, bacteria and settlements, said an EPA news release. These can clog rivers and streams with algae, kill fish by reducing oxygen in the water, transmit waterborne diseases and impair the enjoyment of waterways, officials said. The Downs and EXPO must take actions to prevent further discharges and notify EPA of any discharges of pollutants into waters. | ||
|
|
