Group Seeks To Prevent Construction of New Uranium Mill in Colorado

March 11, 2011

Group Seeks To Prevent Construction of New Uranium Mill in Colorado

The dangers of uranium mining and milling are well-documented. Those who have worked in mines or have lived near mines frequently suffer from a wide range of radiation-related ailments, including cancer, birth defects and kidney disease. In 1990, the federal government passed a law specifically providing financial compensation for some people who have developed illnesses as a result of uranium mining and milling, the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA). No new uranium mills have opened in the United States in 25 years.

Given this background, one might reasonably be surprised to learn that earlier this year, Colorado's Department of Public Health and Environment approved a permit for the creation of a new uranium mill. The proposed Pinon Ridge Uranium Mill would be located in the southwestern part of the state, near the small town of Naturita. The company responsible for the mill, Energy Fuels, expects that that the mill could be running as soon as the first half of next year.

One environmental group, Sheep Mountain Alliance, has filed a lawsuit to prevent the mill from further development. The organization alleges that state regulators failed to follow appropriate procedures before approving the permit, and that the state has not required the company to allocate sufficient funds for cleaning up contamination. Environmental groups have expressed general concerns that the nearby Colorado and Dolores rivers may be contaminated by radioactive material from the mill.

Additionally, the lawsuit claims that proposed mill would violate a Colorado law forbidding the creation of new uranium mills in places where high levels of heavy metals are already present.

Supporters of the new mill point out that the mill will create jobs, tax revenues and energy. According to the New York Times, the mill and supporting mines could bring as many as 300 jobs into the area. In a region with limited employment opportunities, the mill may provide welcome relief. Some supporters note many of the most dangerous practices of uranium mining have been outlawed, and the environment is considerably safer than in earlier years.

These are complicated issues with no simple solutions. Jobs are important, but safety is important as well; no one should be forced to choose between their health and well-being and the opportunity to be employed. Unfortunately, this may be precisely the choice that people in western Colorado are forced to make if the mill is opened.

For those who have already suffered the consequences of radiation exposure from uranium milling or mining, there may be legal recourse. Speak with a knowledgeable attorney to determine whether you may have a claim for compensation.

Article provided by Killian & Davis PC
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