Orange Substance in Walker Identified

4/13/23

They now know what that orange substance found in Walker is. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality released its report on the orange water and soil discovered in the area of the former Sheldon Mine. Coloration is due to naturally-occurring iron. ADEQ officials report that as iron is exposed to air, it forms iron oxide – also known as rust -- which is orange or red in color. Test results confirm that surface water and soil in the area do not pose an immediate threat to public health and no remediation activities are warranted. The orange substance was first discovered a few weeks ago by Walker residents. ADEQ took samples from the area for study on April 1st.