LEAD - The Department of Energy has started an environmental assessment in Lead that will determine whether building a new surface laboratory will have significant effects on human health and the environment.

The Black Hills Pioneer reports that the study is a standard procedure for major large-scale projects. The assessment will look at the impact having a Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment facility in Kirk Canyon will have on the surrounding area.

The Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment will further study neutrinos and how they change form in transit.

Scientists hope to build a $50-million surface facility for the project before eventually setting up lab space in the Sanford Underground Lab.

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