Pollution from Florida mining a concern with Hurricane Ian

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The polluted leftovers of Florida’s phosphate fertilizer mining industry, more than 1 billion tons in “stacks” that resemble enormous ponds, are at risk for leaks or other contamination when Hurricane Ian comes ashore in the state, environmental groups say. “We are extremely concerned about the potential impacts Hurricane Ian may have on phosphate facilities around the state,” Whitlock added. “As the highly acidic, radioactive slime makes its way to the receiving waters, entire aquatic ecosystems are impacted.” A spokeswoman for Mosaic said the company carefully plans for storm season each year and has been preparing its worksites in Florida for Hurricane Ian. “We continue monitoring weather updates while completing preparations at our phosphate mining and production facilities.” Phosphate has been mined in Florida since 1883.