A scientist studying the Leichhardt River near Mount Isa found dangerous levels of lead as early as 2001.
Dr Mark Taylor, from Macquarie University’s physical geography department, became curious seven years ago when he noticed
Xstrata’s mine was located upstream from the town’s drinking source.
Dr Taylor found it unusual no prior research had been undertaken when he searched the town’s archives. After conducting his own tests he found lead contaminations far above the recommended level. He also found high lead levels in the soil around the mine and river. He estimates around 900 homes have been built on contaminated land.
Dr Taylor claims the local authorities ignored his warnings out of fear of damaging the mining industry.
A Queensland Health report finding one in ten children in Mount Isa had been exposed to dangerous levels of lead, has been released at a public meeting attended by over 200 people on May 22 2008.
The study found that 11.3% of the 400 children tested had elevated blood lead levels and were at risk of developmental and behavioral problems.
Xstrata has begun operations to clear contaminants from the Leichhardt River.
