US spent $33.1 million relocating town after dioxin contamination

The residents of Times Beach faced a critical situation when dioxin contamination was discovered, leading to their permanent relocation. Originally, this toxic substance was used on dirt roads for dust control during the 1970s. A devastating flood in 1982 heightened the community’s concerns about contamination. To address the issue, an incinerator was constructed to manage over 265,000 tons of polluted materials.