The Navajo Nation and Energy Fuels are currently negotiating the terms for transporting uranium ore from the Pinyon Plain Mine to the White Mesa Mill in Blanding, Utah. The discussions are focused on finding a mutually acceptable path forward that addresses both parties’ concerns.
On Friday, Governor Katie Hobbs expressed her satisfaction with the ongoing dialogue between Energy Fuels and the Navajo Nation, noting that the company has voluntarily suspended uranium ore transport through Navajo lands while negotiations continue. “I’m glad that EFRI and Navajo Nation have begun conversations about their path forward, and that EFRI has agreed to extend their voluntary pause on uranium ore transport through Navajo Nation lands while these good-faith negotiations continue,” Governor Hobbs said.
Earlier this month, Navajo Nation law enforcement attempted to block two trucks carrying uranium ore from crossing the reservation, but the trucks proceeded after Energy Fuels asserted they were in compliance with safety regulations and had not promised a two-week notice in a previous stakeholder meeting. Although the state government does not have jurisdiction over the Navajo Nation or the company, the Hobbs administration has stepped in as a mediator to facilitate discussions. The administration is coordinating with tribal and Coconino County leadership to prepare for any potential incidents involving the material and aims to help both parties reach an acceptable resolution.
“I want to thank Governor Hobbs for her quick action in putting Energy Fuels’ transport of uranium ore on hold while we work through our concerns,” said Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren. In response to the situation, President Nygren issued an Executive Order that bars the transport of radioactive material through the reservation without a formal agreement.
Energy Fuels has expressed its appreciation for the productive discussions and has agreed to halt the ore transport for the time being. “Energy Fuels is grateful to the Navajo Nation for hosting what we believe was a very productive discussion on uranium ore transport,” stated Energy Fuels President and CEO Mark Chalmers. “We also wish to thank Governor Hobbs for helping to facilitate this meeting. Based on these discussions, we believe the parties will be able to come to a reasonable agreement that ensures coordinated emergency management and the protection of public health and safety at all times. We look forward to continuing our discussions in the coming weeks.”
Additionally, Attorney General Kris Mayes has requested the United States Forest Service conduct a new environmental impact study on the Pinyon Plain Mine. This request comes as Energy Fuels maintains that existing environmental data remains valid in court, according to The Center Square.
