Based on the information currently available, ATSDR concluded that the Annie Creek Mine
Tailings Site represents a no apparent health hazard since the data do not indicate exposure to
contaminants at levels of health concern are occurring.
There is potential for vacationers and seasonal residents to be exposed to arsenic in surface
water, groundwater, sediments, and biota. However, based on the arsenic concentrations
reported in each of these media, no adverse health effects are expected to occur in individuals
(seasonal residents or vacationers) from ingestion of these media on a seasonal basis. Dermal
contact with arsenic contaminated surface water or sediments is not considered a
significant pathway of exposure since absorption of arsenic thorough the skin would be minimal.
There were no adverse health problems reported in regard to the arsenic contamination in
Annie or Spearfish Creek.
The Spearfish municipal water system was not and is not currently impacted by
contamination in Annie Creek.
Based on the data reviewed, ATSDR does not recommend any further action at this time.
HEALTH ACTIVITIES RECOMMENDATION PANEL RECOMMENDATIONS
In order, to determine if public health actions are needed, ATSDR's Health Activities
Recommendation Panel (HARP) evaluated the data and information developed in the Annie
Creek Mine Tailings Public Health Assessment. The HARP recommended that the community
be provided additional information concerning the potential exposure to arsenic from potable
water and fish.
Public Health Action Plan
Actions Undertaken
ATSDR recommended that groundwater in the alluvium and deep aquifers be monitored to
determine if there is an impact of Reliance Tailings on the water that supplies private wells along
Spearfish Creek. An inventory was conducted to determine the status of residential properties
around the Reliance Tailing Site (vacation versus permanent residence); all domestic wells were
inventoried (location, potential use; screened interval; and water quality); groundwater in Annie and Spearfish Creek was monitored.
ATSDR recommended that the total arsenic concentration of edible species of fish from Annie
and Spearfish Creek be monitored to ensure the quality of fish was safe for the
recreational consumer. Fish were sampled in Annie and Spearfish Creek.
A nontime critical removal action for Annie Creek Mine Tailings Site was initiated by the
potentially responsible parties. The removal action included covering exposed areas of arsenic
contaminated tailings with clean soil, regenerating the cover, establishing drainage controls to
divert surface water runoff, and instituting controls which may include deed and access
restrictions, land use limitations, groundwater restrictions, surface water monitoring, and public information programs to address potential human health risks posed by the site (15).
