Retsof Salt Mine
Posted by: 
MrsMcFly
N 42° 49.536 W 077° 52.986
18T E 264332 N 4745480
Salt mine located in Retsof, NY that collapsed after an earthquake in 1994.
Waymark Code: WM1C2Q
Location: New York, United States
Date Posted: 03/31/2007
Views: 134
The Retsof Salt Mine had operated since 1885, and at the time of closing was the largest salt producing mine in North America and the second largest in the world. There was an earthquake with a magnitude of 3.6 (Richter scale) on March 12, 1994. Retsof officials examined the mine and discovered a 500 ft. by 500 ft. section of shale ceiling rock had collapsed 1,200 ft. below land surface. It was followed by another collapse and eventually complete flooding of the mine. There were large ground-water declines in the area and it effected many structures, roads and utilities. During the 17 months after the collapse, mining operations were shifted to the northern part of the mine to try and salvage mineable salt. Operations ceased on Sept. 2, 1995 and the mine was completely flooded by December of that year. In 2000, a new mine opened 10 miles away, Hampton Corners Mine, owned by American Rock Salt. They use the buildings at the Retsof Mine for their Finance and Marketing departments.
Mine Type: Abandoned Mine
Mineral Collecting: No
Material Mined: Other - Specify in long description
Operation: Underground Mine
Surface Features: Yes
KNOWN DANGERS:
Photo is taken from entrance by road, I would not suggest taking a stroll around the mine buildings. There is a sign stating anyone who enters may have their car searched.
Any associated website: [Web Link]
Any Other information: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:
Optional photograph welcomed.
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