Alpers C.N., Hunerlach M.P., May J.T., Hothem R.L. Mercury Contamination from Historical Gold Mining in California

USGS Publications — Fact Sheet 2005-3014 Version 1.1, - 6 p.Mercury contamination from historical gold mines represents a potential risk to human health and the environment. This fact sheet provides background information on the use of mercury in historical gold mining and processing operations in California, with emphasis on historical hydraulic mining areas. It also describes results of recent USGS projects that address the potential risks associated with mercury contamination.