He said he "moved earth on his lot" but he had an illegal ripiera: it was closed down

The Mendoza Mining Environmental Authority ordered the immediate cessation of activities at a quarry located in Uspallata , Las Heras , after detecting extractive activities carried out illegally, without official registration or environmental impact studies.

The procedure was carried out by technical personnel from the Environmental Management and Oversight Directorate, in conjunction with members of the Mining Environmental Police, during a routine inspection intended to verify compliance with current mining and environmental regulations.

"We encountered irregular activity. The owner claimed he was simply moving soil, but at the site we detected operational machinery, a working screen, and stockpiled material, which clearly indicates unauthorized exploitation," explained Guillermo Bickham, head of the Mining Environmental Police.

The inspection revealed multiple irregularities: recent stockpiling of aggregates, work involving heavy machinery, scrap metal, unused tires, debris, and even a makeshift workshop with trucks being repaired. Furthermore, no signage, work area demarcation, or authorized personnel were found.

The presence of animals in a corral, pruning debris, and food was also found nearby, worsening the sanitary conditions of the property. Neighbors in the area confirmed the activity, and after being located, the owner stated that it was a "remediation area for private use." However, he had previously been inspected for similar violations on other properties.

• The corresponding registration in the Collection Registry of the Ministry of Energy and Environment of Mendoza.

• An Environmental Impact Report.

• A formal discharge by the person responsible for the property.

The case was referred to the legal department to initiate the sanctioning procedure provided for by law. The provincial government reiterated that environmental oversight is a key tool for ensuring legal and sustainable mining development in Mendoza.