The Grand Canyon remains under the world’s spotlight and is now under international scrutiny as well. All of the operations just outside of the national park seems to be getting the attention of scientists, conservationists, and the indigenous community as well. The Grand Canyon has come under scrutiny since much radioactive material is being extracted as well as transported across ecosystems that are sensitive. The problem is that the Grand Canyon itself may be at risk.
The controversial project seeking what lies beneath
As of February this year, the Pinyon Plain Mine has become a source of uranium ore. This mine is situated 10 miles south of the Grand Canyon. What lies beneath seems to be more than just 600 tons of uranium ore. 600 tons of uranium ore has already been transported through towns, forest, and wildlife habitats.
The challenge in terms of transporting the ore is that any unexpected occurance on the road or unprecedented weather conditions could lead to accidents. Should an accident occur, radioactive material will get released into the environment.
More concern pertains to the transporting route that passes the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Reservation. The Navajo government has signed the hauling agreement with Energy Fuels Inc (the mining company), however, the Hopi tribe has not fully come to terms with this and they feel that their lack of consultation or consent is another reason why this project is so controversial.
Risks associated with transporting uranium ore
It is the Havasupai Tribe that have homelands within the Grand Canyon and they are speaking up and voicing their opinions of the Pinyon Plain Mine project. These tribal groups are in favor of mining action stopping to prevent environmental dangers. Further reasons why the trips want operation to cease is because the Red Butte Traditional Cultural Property holds much spiritual significance for the tribes.
While environmental concerns are at the heart of the project’s controversy, a 2016 incident continues to strike a chord. During construction, the mine struck an aquifer and led to flooding millions of gallons of contaminated water yearly. High uranium as well as arsenic levels can also be impactful to acquifers.
Then again, 600 tons of uranium has been extracted thus far which is but a mere fraction of that which could be extracted if operation continues in full swing. The impact of uranium potential is clear, but so too is the possible environmental damage that could result if mining efforts continue.
The push to cease operation and close the mine permanently
Since it was speculated that there could be a billion dollar uranium discovery, the Grand Canyon has been under the spotlight. The Canyon Mine which now gets called the Pinyon Plain Mine has received its permit grant back in 1986 and continues to operate utilizing that permit. However, during 1986, environmental rules seemed to be less harsh. The more recent 2012 ban prevented new uranium mining efforts spanning over 1 million acres surrounding the Grand Canyon.
Still this subtle ban does not seem to be enough. There are more than 80 environmental organizations along with indigenous leaders who have decided its best to close the mine down. The group called on Arizona’s Governor and voiced arguments pertaining to the lack of tribal consent as well as the archaic laws permitting continued operation.
Consensus seems to be growing with regards to banning mining activity permanently and thousands of signitures have already been collected to put an end to uranium mining efforts in the region. Thus far, the mine continues to operate, however, the pressure from outside is clear.
More than 600 tons of hidden potential
The Pinyon Plain uranium mine is there and it is a source of more than 600 tons of uranium ore. The sacred site that ought to be protected holds potential. The decision that needs to be made is whether its best to tap into the potential or cease all mining operations. We could very well be saying farewell to the Grand Canyon based the fact that we should secure the soul of the place.
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