The Colorado Division of Reclamation Mining and Safety (DRMS) will be cooperating with the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration in MSHA’s investigation of the mine accident near Ouray.
DRMS regulates environmental impacts at the mine. Mine safety and enforcement is under the jurisdiction of MSHA.
Star Mine Operations LLC obtained a permit for the Revenue Mine southwest of Ouray in February of 2013 to mine silver, gold and sulfide minerals from vein deposits on patented mining claims owned by the company. This followed prospecting at the site beginning in 2011. All mining at the site is conducted underground via drill and blast methods. Surface disturbances associated with the Revenue operation include water ponds, waste storage, mining support facilities and processing facilities. DRMS’ last inspection of surface facilities was in September 2013 to review the construction and certification of the underground mill for processing ore and technical aspects related to surface facilities. DRMS holds a $277,078 reclamation bond for the 34-acre site.
The Division of Reclamation Mining and Safety (DRMS) extends its deepest sympathies to the miners and families of those affected by this tragedy.
Colorado Department of Natural Resources Media Contact: Todd Hartman, 303-513-3639
