Chervon Mining Inc. has reached a $4 million settlement to restore natural resources damaged as a result of hazardous substances being released at its mine in northern New Mexico.
The settlement was announced Friday by the state, the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The agreement must still be approved by a federal judge and public comment will be accepted over the next month.
The trustees plan to use the money for restoration projects at the site near Questa.
Also, 225 acres will be transferred to the federal government for conservation and natural resource protection.
Studies have shown ground water in the area has been contaminated with hazardous substances and heavy metals have been found in surface water at levels that exceed water quality standards.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.