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Dormant lithium mine blamed for unfamiliar odor in Kings Mountain

KINGS MOUNTAIN, N.C. — A smell has been lingering around Kings Mountain for weeks now.

According to our partners at The Charlotte Observer, a dormant lithium mine is to blame.

Albemarle Corporation – the world’s largest lithium miner – is trying to reopen the mine near Kings Mountain Boulevard and I-85.

In December, The Charlotte Observer reports city officials assured everyone the “unfamiliar odor” was natural after several residents complained about a smell and possible “gas leaks” around Albemarle’s pond.

Albemarle, a Charlotte-based company, has confirmed air levels are safe but they’re considering putting buoys in the water to disrupt the wind and thus – the smell.

Officials said until the mine pit is de-watered, the stench may come back. Read more about why Albemarle removing the water here.


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