NMDOH Launches New Health Assessment for Chevron Questa Mine Superfund Site
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has announced plans to conduct a new health assessment for the Chevron Questa Mine Superfund site, a molybdenum mine that closed in 2014 after nearly a century of operation. The mine was declared a Superfund site in 2011 due to contamination by hazardous waste, including molybdenum, heavy metals, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
According to NMDOH Assessor Noelle G. Martinez, the assessment will investigate the health impacts of mine-caused contamination on the local population. Martinez emphasized the importance of private well testing, stating that consumption of groundwater from these wells can be 'harmful if consumed now.' The Village of Questa's municipal water supply is not expected to be contaminated at this time.
Recent urine testing for heavy metals was conducted in Questa, with results expected in December or early 2027. Martinez encouraged community members to submit any health concerns, including unusual cancer patterns, to the NMDOH for consideration in the assessment.