EPA is closing down asbestos cleanup in Libby, Montana until next year

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is winding up asbestos cleanup operations for the season and will soon begin making plans for next year. The residents of Libby, Montana have experienced high incidence of asbestos-related disease, such as mesothelioma, as a result of asbestos contamination from W.R. Grace’s vermiculite mine. This season, contractors have completed asbestos removal in 160 homes and properties in Libby. As the EPA plans for next year, it is asking Libby residents to be involved in setting budget priorities for continuing the asbestos cleanup and for the scientific research being done. Next year, the EPA’s asbestos cleanup efforts also will move beyond Libby to include the nearby town of Troy, Montana. Inspections began in Troy this year.

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