Project Timeframe: 2005 to 2010

The Klau and Buena Vista Mines, located in San Luis Obispo County, have contributed significant levels of mercury to Lake Nacimiento and the surrounding watershed, placing them on the US EPA’s National Priority List. IAI staff worked with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the California Department of Public Health to conduct a Public Health Assessment (PHA). IAI epidemiological scientists and public health educators reviewed environmental data to evaluate the potential health impact from exposures to contaminants, interviewed community members, and evaluated their concerns based on the environmental data. Based on the PHA, IAI staff provided recommendations for further action to The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry that formed the basis for the Public Health Action Plan.