Millions of gallons of contaminated water from an old gold mine spilled into the Animas River, threatening the Colorado River. By the time officials got to the area, it was too late to save the rest of the river.

It has now been upgraded to a state of emergency. Gov. Martinez joined other officials in criticizing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for its lack of communication after a cleanup crew accidentally breached a debris dam at the old mine in southwest Colorado on Wednesday causing the contamination.

Under the governor's order, $750,000 in state funds will be available for well testing, long-term studies and other efforts. This coming at a time when crops and livestock are at risk. They are testing the waters to see if it is suitable for livestock consumption.

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