|
News Release— August 11, 2004 at 6:46 AM MST Copper giant to pay fine after birds die at Morenci mine Phelps Dodge has agreed to pay a $15,000 federal fine after dozens of migratory birds died from drinking acidic water at its Morenci copper mine. The Phoenix-based copper giant pleaded guilty earlier this week to violating the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. As a preventative measure, the company is spending more than $1 million to scare away birds with noisemakers and fake peregrine falcons. "We regret the bird mortality and we're committed to fully implementing the corrective action plan that's been outlined," said Phelps Dodge spokesman Ken Vaughn. Authorities said the birds died from 2000 to 2003 and apparently drank from storm water that collected in the tailings area, or from a copper-bearing solution leached from crushed ore. Under terms of the plea agreement disclosed Monday by the U.S. Justice Department, Phelps Dodge agreed to pay the maximum fine of $15,000 for one count of violating the bird treaty act. The company will also donate $10,000 to one or more federally licensed bird rehabilitators for care of sick and injured birds, and will spend at least $80,000 to fund studies of creating or improving migratory bird habitat in the region. The Morenci mine is the largest copper producer in North America. Phelps Dodge also operates the Miami, Bagdad and Sierrita copper mines in Arizona, plus facilities in New Mexico and South America. |