Comparative Analysis of EPA Remediation Efforts in the Tri-State Mining District: A Sociological Perspective

• In Event: 50620 - Section on Environmental Sociology Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 8: Environmental Inequalities and Harm 2

Abstract

This study examines the differences in EPA response, remediation efforts, and outcomes in the Tri-State Mining District, which spans Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. The district includes four Superfund sites designated by the EPA due to extensive contamination from historical lead and zinc mining activities. EPA Region 6 covers the Tar Creek Superfund site in Oklahoma, while EPA Region 7 covers the Cherokee County Superfund site in Kansas and the Newton County and Oronogo-Duenweg Superfund sites in Missouri. A comparative content analysis reveals several factors impacting outcomes in the different sites.

Authors

• Lara Foley, University of Tulsa

• Kathryn Bartee, University of Tulsa

• Anagi Pieris, University of Tulsa