The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ordered the Downs at Albuquerque Inc. and EXPO New Mexico to halt discharges of animal waste, industrial run-off and other pollutants into the Rio Grande, according to an EPA news release.
“Companies must operate in a way that protects vital water resources,” EPA Regional Administrator Al Armendariz said in the release. “When a facility fails to meet its responsibilities, the EPA will work closely with our state partner agencies to enforce the law.”
On Nov. 15, 2011, the New Mexico Environment Department conducted an on-site inspection and found that the facility did not have a properly designed storm water run-off containment structure, the EPA release said.
The facility also does not have a National Pollutant Discharge System permit which allows facilities to discharge into U.S. waters, according to the release.
The racetrack normally accommodates about 1,400 horses during racing season, the EPA said.
Pollutants commonly associated with animal waste or manure often include nitrogen and phosphorus, organic matter, bacteria and sediments, which can clog rivers and streams with algae, kill fish by reducing oxygen in the water, transmit water-borne diseases or impair the enjoyment of waterways, the federal agency said.
To comply with the order, the Downs and EXPO New Mexico must immediately take all necessary actions to prevent future discharges of pollutants into U.S. waters and notify the EPA of any discharges from the facility, the release said.
