TRI Explained

Metal Mining and Right-To-Know/TRI Program

On July 1, 1999, the U. S. metals mining industry began reporting natural occurring minerals that are not recovered during the processing of mined rock. In addition to these minerals, the industry reports other materials used in producing useful metals. The data is provided to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state and local agencies, and the public. This information is reported under the Community Right-to-Know Act (also known as Toxics Release Inventory or TRI). The mining industry supports the intent of the Right-to-Know Act and wants you to understand what these reports mean.

The reported numbers are based on volume and in no way equate to health or environmental risk. More than 99 percent of the reported volume are substances managed on land and less than one percent are emissions to air and water. At most mines, more than 99 percent of the reported volume are naturally occurring trace metals contained as minerals in rock. These substances are managed properly and stored in specially engineered containment facilities at mine sites. It is important to understand that even though the concentrations in the rock are very low, the sheer volume of material make mining operations some of the highest-ranking TRI reporting facilities in the state.

The modern mining industry has a high regard for health, safety and environmental protection. Many actions are taken to ensure that this rock material is managed properly to protect community health and the environment. Measures such as daily, weekly, and monthly inspections and regular analytical sampling of these materials is conducted. Monitoring is used to ensure these materials are properly stored and monitoring data is reported to regulatory authorities on a regular basis. Water treatment and recycling are also used to protect the environment.

Currently, mining and mineral processing are subject to more than three dozen federal environmental laws and regulations, including the Clean Water and Clean Air Acts, the Endangered Species Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and many others. Idaho laws also impose controls on mining and mineral processing operations. These laws ensure the protection of public health and the environment. At the conclusion of a mining operation, mining companies reclaim mining sites and return the land to a productive use.

The mining industry is committed to communicating with the public about TRI, including information on how we safely and effectively manage TRI reported materials. For more information call 208.342.0031.