Project Profile: Develop Plan to Restore Abandoned Mine at Valles Caldera National Preserve

Human Trash at Sulfur Springs mining area.

NPS Photo

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
Revegetation of Hazard Mine Lands | FY22 $89,000

The National Park Service will develop a reclamation plan for an abandoned sulfur mine site at Valles Caldera National Preserve. Sulphur Springs is a 40-acre inholding that was purchased by NPS in 2019. The property contains an abandoned sulfur mine, along with several geothermal springs and volcanic fumaroles. Following the development of the reclamation plan, the NPS will remove safety hazards and non-historic debris and restore the area to a pre-disturbed landscape.

Why? One of the primary access roads to Valles Caldera National Preserve runs through the middle of the Sulfur Springs site where pristine views are interrupted by mining and non-historic debris. An open, acid-filled impoundment at the site poses public health and safety concerns. The continued erosion and alteration of the hydrology of Sulphur Springs impairs the natural landscape and can harm native plant and wildlife communities.

What else? Planning and preparation are essential to the restoration of the natural hydrology and native plants at the site. Once the area is restored, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the rare geothermal features of Sulphur Springs.

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – Ecosystem Restoration

This project was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – Ecosystem Restoration, signed on November 15, 2021. It is a historic investment in the restoration and protection of the environment.