Berkeley Pit, Open-pit copper mine in Butte, Montana, US.
Berkeley Pit is an open-pit copper mine in Butte, Montana, now filled with a deep acidic lake. The excavation stretches more than a mile across and holds rust-colored water reaching nearly 900 feet (274 meters) below the rim.
The pit opened in 1955 and supplied copper to American industry during the Cold War. Mining stopped in 1982, and since then the basin has slowly filled with acidic groundwater.
The mining operations at Berkeley Pit led to the displacement of two complete neighborhoods, Meaderville and McQueen, transforming the social landscape of Butte.
The viewing platform is open during the warmer months for a small fee and offers a direct look at the flooded pit. Visitors should prepare for cool winds, even on sunny days.
In 1995, a flock of snow geese landed on the lake and many birds died from the toxic substances in the water. The event led to increased monitoring and efforts to prevent further wildlife contact.
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