Shipments of uranium ore from a resuming mining operation located just south of the Grand Canyon are set to begin again in February, following a settlement reached between the Navajo Nation and the mining firm. This agreement paves the way for trucks to transport the ore across the largest Native American reservation in the United States.
The agreement, which was revealed on Wednesday, addresses a conflict that arose last summer when Energy Fuels Inc. started trucking ore from the Pinyon Plain Mine to a processing facility in Utah. The Navajo authorities attempted to halt the trucks, but the vehicles had already departed from tribal roads.
The situation triggered negotiations with the company and prompted the Navajo Nation to implement emergency legislation aimed at tightening regulations concerning the transport of radioactive materials on tribal land. The Navajo Nation, along with tribes in Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah, has endured a troubling history of health issues and environmental contamination due to mining activities that took place during the World War II and Cold War eras.
Mark Chalmers, the President and CEO of Energy Fuels, recognized these historical impacts, underscoring the significance of the recent settlement. He noted, “This has understandably caused mistrust toward the U.S. government and energy firms.” Chalmers expressed his commitment to collaborating with the tribe to address their concerns, ensuring that transportation will occur in a manner that is safe and respectful.
Energy Fuels is already subject to strict federal regulations when transporting uranium ore. The additional safeguards outlined in the agreement with the Navajo Nation are intended to enhance protections during the transport process, according to company representatives.
Moreover, the pact includes a commitment from Energy Fuels to assist in transporting up to 10,000 tons of waste from abandoned mines, remnants of the federal government’s uranium initiatives.
The agreement allows the Navajo Nation to oversee and inspect transport vehicles, and it incorporates financial compensation incentives aimed at bolstering safety and protecting the environment, as stated by Stephen B. Etsitty, the head of the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency.
Shipments are scheduled to resume in February and will be restricted to specific routes and designated times. No shipments will take place during cultural celebrations or major public gatherings organized by the tribe.
Additionally, the tribe requires that the mining company establish clear emergency response protocols, provide timely notifications, and ensure that drivers receive specialized training and qualifications.
The trucks involved will be covered to minimize dust emissions during transit, and there are arrangements for tribal escorts and blessings as deemed appropriate by tribal guidelines.
