Low Lab releases follow-up data on cyanide in runoff Hydrologists with the Laboratory have determined that the vast majority of cyanide found in storm water after the Cerro Grande Fire was not in a form that could injure humans, fish or other living organisms. In addition, the hydrologists have found that some of the cyanide may have been naturally created by combustion. Most test results show levels that are not known to pose a hazard to fish or wildlife. In fact, we have no reports of fish kills or impacts to the Rio Grande as a result of the Cerro Grande Fire. In September, Laboratory hydrologists reported the presence of cyanide in storm water that was running onto Laboratory property.
Sodium ferrocyanide is added to slurry as an anti-caking agent and corrosion inhibitor.
U.S. Forest Service data show that approximately 167,000 gallons of slurry containing sodium ferrocyanide were dropped while fighting the Cerro Grande Fire. These cyanide-containing compounds may remain in ash. Laboratory and New Mexico Environment Department results from the analysis of ash samples from areas burned by the Cerro Grande Fire, but apparently untouched by slurry fire retardant, show cyanide in concentrations of several parts per million. Accordingly, cyanide can come from naturally occurring sources as well as possibly from the slurry. Laboratory researchers will continue to work with U.S. Forest Service staff to investigate contaminants resulting from the fire in storm water.