Restoring the water-retaining capacity of hydro-electric dams by regular dredging and sand and silt removal is the only way left before the authorities.
Even though the expenses for regular sand and silt removal from dams would be enormous, it is the only available option left before the authorities to keep dams fully functional.
No production from the mine is expected this year after the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration ordered the Silver Shaft to be closed for removal of built-up sand and concrete material.
The temporary closure of the Silver Shaft at the Lucky Friday mine was ordered last year by the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration for removal of built-up sand and concrete material.