Torrential rain during Hurricane Milton breached a water collection system at Mosaic’s Riverview site, potentially releasing contaminated water into Tampa Bay. Mosaic, the largest fertilizer producer in North America, issued a statement on Friday, acknowledging the breach of their gypstack—an enormous mound of waste byproduct from phosphate production. The spill likely resulted in contaminated water, raising concerns about public health and environmental impacts.
Gypstack Waste and Its Environmental Concerns
The gypstack, covering more than a square mile of Mosaic’s site, contains radioactive elements like radium and uranium. These materials emit radon gas, a known health hazard. With the spill potentially reaching Tampa Bay, questions are mounting about the long-term effects on the region’s environment and water quality.