Source 5:Tailings Dam Spills at Mount Polley and Mariana – The Bullet. (2018, November 14). Retrieved November 17, 2018, from https://socialistproject.ca/2018/11/tailings-dam-spills-at-mount-polley-and-mariana/

 

A Dam that was holding toxic waste from the copper and gold mine in the British Columbia region collapsed. The toxic water was spilled from the dam, causing the largest environmental crisis in Canada’s mining history. The spill proceeded to flow into Hazeltine Creek and Quesnel Lake. This spill ended up destroying the Salmon’s habitat and damaging the water systems. This disaster occurred in August 2014. This disaster can be caused by the forming of erosion which takes place when it isn’t maintained. When water levels rise outdated dams old structure does not have enough strength.

This article relates to environmental science as the spill of the dams negatively impacted not only the environment and animals but the people who lived in these communities. Because the dams were neglected to be taken care of, many rivers had to endure the consequences of the mining companies that were trying to save money by cutting back on spending. Due to their greedy acts, it ended up polluting the river and endangering a species home, and making the water unsafe to even use. When the dam spilled it spilled toxic chemicals such as lead, phosphorus, mercury, and more.  Due to the lack of maintenance and the lack of intrusion by the gov in stepping in and making sure that the dams were up to code, caused the water to now be tainted. With this spill, it negatively impacted many and ruined animals habitats as well.