CLIMAX MOLYBDENUM CO-HENDERSON MINE
Parent Company: FREEPORT-MCMORAN INC
9 MILES W OF EMPIRE, EMPIRE, Colorado 80438
Pollution Risk
18Based on 1 TRI facility in zip code 80438
Water Quality
100123 violations recorded
Air Quality
49County-level EPA AQS data for CLEAR CREEK
Facility Information
Water Quality in 80438
Total Violations
123
Health Violations
42
Contaminants Found
15
Water Safety Score
100/100
Contaminants Detected:
Should You Be Concerned About CLIMAX MOLYBDENUM CO-HENDERSON MINE?
CLIMAX MOLYBDENUM CO-HENDERSON MINEis registered in the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory (TRI). This means the facility reports handling, releasing, or transferring toxic chemicals as part of its operations. The area's environmental safety score is 56/100 — moderate, suggesting some cumulative environmental burden from industrial activity in the area.
Water quality in zip code 80438 is good (100/100), suggesting that despite the TRI facility, drinking water hasn't been significantly impacted.
What you can do: Check your home's water quality with an annual test kit, monitor local air quality alerts, and review the full Colorado pollution report for broader context. FREEPORT-MCMORAN INC operates this facility — check if they have a public environmental responsibility report.
Health Considerations for Residents Near CLIMAX MOLYBDENUM CO-HENDERSON MINE
Living near a Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) facility in EMPIRE, Colorado (80438) means potential exposure to industrial pollutants through air, water, and soil. While not every facility creates immediate health risks, long-term proximity warrants awareness and proactive steps.
Water Testing
Even with acceptable municipal water scores, homes near industrial sites should test annually for contaminants that may leach through groundwater. This is especially important for homes built before 1990 or those on well water in the 80438 area. Testing kits are available through your county health department or certified labs.
Air Quality Monitoring
Air quality in this area scores 49/100 — below average. Monitor daily AQI (Air Quality Index) at airnow.gov, particularly on hot, stagnant days when ground-level pollutants concentrate. If you notice unusual odors or visible emissions from CLIMAX MOLYBDENUM CO-HENDERSON MINE, report them to Colorado's environmental agency.
When to Consult a Doctor
Speak with your physician if you experience persistent respiratory symptoms (chronic cough, wheezing, shortness of breath), unexplained headaches, skin irritation, or unusual fatigue — particularly if these worsen when you're at home. Mention your proximity to a TRI facility so they can order appropriate screening. Vulnerable populations — children, elderly, pregnant women, and those with asthma — should be especially vigilant.
Explore More
Data sources: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI), EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS), EPA Air Quality System (AQS). Facility ID: 80438CLMXM9MILE. Last updated: August 2026.