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July 14, 2001 By Janelle Holden A mysterious fungus has caused a 10-day closure of Mesa Verde National Park’s research center. The research center houses Mesa Verde’s curatorial collections, including the objects in the archives. "The artifacts are fine, the archives are fine, the photos are fine, all the objects are fine. They haven’t suffered any damage," said Linda Towle, chief of research and resource development for Mesa Verde. "It’s really not something that’s visible. It’s microscopic, so of course it would be hard for anyone to detect who didn’t have the proper equipment." According to Towle, the stachybotrys fungus was discovered on June 3, when the results of a routine air-quality test were returned. Western Technologies Inc., a consulting company based in Flagstaff, Ariz., which conducted the study, warned the park of potential health problems, and the 12 employees who work in the building were moved to other park facilities. "We want to be sure that they have a safe and healthy workplace," said Towle, who explained that one employee working in the building had a chronic respiratory problem this winter which might or might not be linked to the fungus. Even though only a small amount of the fungus was found in the center, Western Technologies officials said that any amount needs to be addressed since it had the potential to temporarily reduce employees’ immune systems. On Wednesday, Western Technologies returned to the park to conduct further studies to determine where the fungi is in the building and develop a mitigation plan. "We think it may be as simple as replacing the air conditioners in the building," said Towle. Towle said the type of fungus in the building is normally found in humid climates and wet places. |
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