DRC-2009-008029 - 0901a06880141aa2

1.0 Site Location and Layout
The Mill is regionally located in central San Juan County, Utah, approximately 6 miles (9.5 km)
south of the city of Blanding. The Mill can be reached by taking a private road for
approximately 0.5 miles west of Utah State Highway 19l. See Figure l.
Within San Juan County, the Mill is located on fee land and mill site claims, covering
approximately 5,415 acres, encompassing all or part of Sections 21,22,27,28,29,32, and 33 of
T375, R22F,, and Sections 4, 5, 6,8, 9, and 16 of T38S, R22E, Salt Lake Base and Meridian.
See Figure 2.
All operations authorized by the License are conducted within the confines of the existing site
boundary. The milling facility currently occupies approximately 50 acres and the current tailings
disposal cells encompass another 250 acres. See Figure 2.
The resident currently nearest to the milling facility is located approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 km)northoftheMillsite'justnorthof@_ttheMillprtlpert}'.SeeFigure2.
2.0 Climate and Meteorology
2.1 Reeional Climate
The climate of southeastem Utah is classified as dry to arid continental. Although varying
somewhat with elevation and terrain, the climate in the vicinity of the Mill can be considered as
semi-arid with normal annual precipitation of about 13.4 inches. Most precipitation is in the
form of rain with snowfall accounting for about 29Vo of the annual total precipitation. There are
two separate rainfall seasons in the region, the first in late summer and early autumn (August to
October) and the second during the winter months (December to March). The mean annual
relative humidity is about 44 percent and is normally highest in January and lowest in July. Theaverageannua|ClassApanevaporationrateis68inches(@ie
A*hnisis+ra+i+x+-and-U.S. Department of Commerce, 1977), with the largest evaporation rate
typically occurring in July. This evaporation rate is not appropriate for determining water
balance requirements for the tailings management system and must be reduced by the Class A
pan coefficient to determine the later evaporation rate. Values of pan coefficients range from
607o to 8l-7o. Denison assumes for +-water balance calculations an average value of 70Vo to
obtain an annual lake evaporation rate for the Mill areaof 47.6 inches. Given the annual average
precipitation rate of 13.4 inches, the net evaporation rate is 34.2 inches per year.
The weather in the Blanding area is typified by warm summers and cold winters. The mean
annual temperature in Blanding is about 50" (F). January is usually the coldest month and July is
usually the warmest month.
Winds are usually light to moderate in the area during all seasons, although occasional stronger
winds may occur in the late winter and spring. The predominant winds are from the north
through north-east (approximately 30 percent of the time) and from the south through south-west
(about 25 percent of the time). Winds are generally less than 15 mph, with wind speeds faster
than 25 mph occurring less than one percent of the time. The National Weather Service Station
in Blanding, Utah is located about 6.25 miles north of the Mill. Data from the station is
considered representative of the local weather conditions (1978 ER, Section 2.7.2). However, as
an element of the pre-construction baseline study and ongoing monitoring programs, the Mill
operates an onsite meteorological station, described in greater detail below. Further details about
weather and climate conditions are provided in the 1978 ER (Section 2.7) urd in the FES
(Section 2.1). The 1978 ER and FBI.SEES are resource documents, incorporated here by
reference.
2.2 On Site Monitorins Program
On-site meteorological monitoring at the Mill was initiated in early 1917 nd continues today.
The original purpose of the meteorological monitoring program was to document the regional
atmospheric baseline and to provide data to assist in assessing potential air quality and
radiological impacts arising from operation of the Mill.
After the Mill construction was completed, the monitoring programs were modified to facilitate
the assessment of Mill operations. The current meteorological monitoring program includes data
collection for wind speed, wind direction, atmospheric stability according to the standard
Pasquill scheme (via measurements of deviations in wind direction, referred to as sigma-theta),
and precipitation as either rain or snow. The recorded on-site meteorological conditions are
reported to Denison on a semi-annual basis and are described in semi-annual reports prepared for
Denison and maintained at the Mill. Figure 3 shows the windrose for the Mill site during the
period of January - December 2007, the most recent full year of compiled meteorological data.
3.0 Use of Adjacent Lands and Water
Approximately 65.8Vo of San Juan County is federally owned land administered by the U.S.
Bureau of Land Management_-1 B!lv!), the National Park Service, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Primary land uses include livestock grazing, wildlife range, recreation, and exploration for
minerals, oil, and gas. Approximately 22Vo of the county is Native American land owned either
by the Navajo Nation or the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. The area within 5 miles of the Mill site is
predominantly range land owned by Blanding residents. The Mill site, including tailings cells,
encompasses approximately 300 acres.
A more detailed discussion of land use at the Mill site, in surrounding areas, and in southeastem
Utah, is presented in the FES (Section 2.5). Results of archeological studies conducted at the site
and in the sunounding areas as part of the 1978 ER are also documented in the FES (Section
2.5.2.3).
4.0 Population Distribution and Socioeconomic Profile
Demographic information is generally derived from information obtained by the U.S. Census
Bureau. These records are updated on a five year frequency for population centers which exceed
65,000 people and on a ten year frequency for lesser populations. As such, the local population
update for the area of interest was last recorded in the year 2000, and it is that data base which
was utilized to formulate the demographic information provided in the recent license renewal
effort and this rBeport. According to the 2000 census, the population density of San Juan
County, in which the Mill is located, is 1.8 individuals per square mile. By comparison, the
statewide density is greater than 27.2 persons per square mile. The town of Blanding, Utah,
approximately 6 miles north of the Mill, is the largest population center near the Mill site, with
3,162 persons. Approximately 5 miles southeast of the Mill site is the White Mesa community,
where approximately 277 Ute Mountain Ute tribal members reside. See Figure 4. The Navajo
Reservation is located approximately l9 miles southeast of the Mill. The nearest community on
the Navajo Reservation is Montezuma Creek, a community of approximately 507 individuals in
Utah. The nearest resident to the Mill is located approximately l 5 miles to the north of the Mill,
near air monitoring station BHV -1.
Table I provides population centers located within 50 miles of the Mill site.
Table l.-Population Centers Within 50 Miles of the Mill Site
Source: hftp://factfurder.census. Gov
' 2000 Census
: Approproximate distme from Mill site by air
' Broed on 1978 population estimte
San Juan County, Utah, is the largest and poorest county in Utah. As of December 2006, the
unemployment rate in San Juan County was 4.9Vo, compared to 2.6Vo for Utah as a whole, and
4.5Vo for the nation as a whole. When operating, the Mill is one of the largest private employersin San Juan County, employing up to 60-140 full time employees. As such, the Mill:s
employees represent a significant economic base for the city of Blanding and rural residents of
San Juan County. In addition, the Company pays local taxes to San Juan County, further
supporting the development of the local economic base. The Mill also provides income to local
minorities, typically employing a high percentage of minority workers ranging from 45-75Vo
Native Americans.
Since its inception in 1980, the Mill has run on a campaign basis, in each case remaining on
standby pending accumulation of sufficient ore stockpiles to justify a milling campaign.
Currently, Mill employees are predominantly residents of San Juan County, or residents of
-'l Formatted: Sup€rscript I
Blandine. UT 3.162 6
White Mesa, UT 277 4
Blufl UT 320 t5
Montezuma Creek, UT 507 20
Aneth, UT 598 27
Mexican Hat, UT 88 30
Monticello. UT r,958 27
Eastland/Ucolo. UT 249'32
Dove Creek. CO 698 'ITowaoc, CO r,097 50
neighboring counties who commute to the Mill on a daily basis. Historically, the Mill has drawn
upon such residents of San Juan County and neighboring counties for each milling campaign,
rather than relying upon an influx of workers to the area. As a result, Mill campaigns have not
given rise to any unusual demands on public services or resulted in any cultural or
socioeconomic issues for the surroundine areas.
5.0 Topography
The Mill site is located on a gently sloping mesa that, from the air, appears similar to a
peninsula, as it is surrounded by steep canyons and washes and is connected to the Abajo
Mountains to the north by a narrow neck of land. On the mesa, the topography is relatively flat,
sloping at less than one (l) percent to the south and nearly horizontal from east to west. See
Figure 5.
6.0 Geologic Setting
6.1 Resional Geolosy
The Mill site lies within a region designated as the Canyon Lands section of the Colorado
Plateau physiographic province. Elevations in the region range from approximately 3,000 feet in
the bottom of canyons to over 11,000 feet among the peaks of the Henry, Abajo and La Sal
Mountains. The average elevation for the area, excluding deeper canyons and isolated mountain
peaks, is about 5,000 feet.
The sedimentary rocks exposed in southeastem Utah have a total thickness of approximately
6,000 to 7,000 feet. These sedimentary units range in age from Pennsylvanian to Late
Cretaceous; older rock units which underlie those of Pennsylvanian age are not exposed in the
Mill site area.
Structural features in the Mill site area have been divided into three main categories on the basis
of origin or mechanism of the stress that created the structure. These categories are: (l)
structures related to large-scale regional uplifting or downwarping directly related to movements
in the basement complex (the Monument Uplift and the Blanding Basin); (2) structures due to
diapiric deformation of thick sequences of evaporate deposits, salt plugs and salt anticlines (the
Paradox Fold and Fault Belt); and (3) structures formed due to magmatic intrusions (the Abajo
Mountains). A generalized stratigraphic column for the region is provided as Figure 6.
The Summerville Formation, Entrada Sandstone, and Navajo Sandstone are the deepest units of
concem encountered at the site.
6.2 Iocal Geology
The Mill site is located on the western edge of the Blanding Basin, sometimes referred to as the
Great Sage Plain, lying east of the north/south-trending Monument Uplift, south of the Abajo
Mountains and adjacent to the northwest-trending Paradox Fold and Fault Belt. The Abajo
Mountains are the most prominent topographic feature in the region, rising over 4,000 ft above
the surface of the plain. The lithology of the immediate area is composed of thousands of feet of
multi-colored pre-Tertiary age marine and non-marine sedimentary rocks. Erosion on the
regionally-uplifted sedimentary strata has produced an iuray of eroded canyons and mesas.
The Mill is more specifically located on White Mesa and rests on alluvial windblown silt and
sand which covers sandstones and shales of Jurassic and Cretaceous age. The surface of the
mesa is nearly flat, with a surface relief of 98 ft. The maximum relief between White Mesa and
the adjacent Cottonwood Canyon is about 750 ft.
6.3 Site-SpecificGeoloeicSettine
Tlris Section 6.3 and Sections 7.1.7.2 and 7.i ale excerrrted fiom the Rerrort entitled: .SJr(
Hvdroqeolog) Estirnotion of Grotttttlu'uter Troyel Tines atrcl Reconntendecl Additionul
Monituring Wells fbr Pfttposetl Tailines Cell 1B White Mestt Uronium Mill Site Neor IJlcutdin.s.
t/tnlt. January 8. 2008. prepaled h), H)'dro Geo Chenr. Irru. ("HGC"). u cony of which is attached
to this Repolt as Appendix A.
The Mill is located within the Blanding Basin of the Colorado Plateau physiographic province.
Typical of large portions of the Colorado Plateau province, the rocks underlying the site are
relatively underformed. The average elevation of the site is approximately 5,600 ft (1,707 m)
above mean sea level (amsl).
The site is underlain by unconsolidated alluvium and indurated sedimentary rocks consisting
primarily of sandstone and shale. The indurated rocks are relatively flat lying with dips
generally less than 3o. The alluvial materials consist mostly of aeolian silts and fine-grained
aeolian sands with a thickness varying from a few feet to as much as 25 to30 ft (7.6 to 9.1 m)
across the site. The alluvium is underlain by the Dakota Sandstone and Burro Canyon
Formation, which are sandstones having a total thickness ranging from approximately 100 to 140
ft (3 I to 43 m). Beneath the Burro Canyon Formation lies the Morrison Formation, consisting,in descending order, of the Brushy Basin Member, the Westwater Canyon Member, the
Recapture Member, and the Salt Wash Member. The Brushy Basin and Recapture Members of
the Morrison Formation, classified as shales, are very fine-grained and have a very low
permeability. The Westwater Canyon and Salt Wash Members also have a low average vertical
permeability due to the presence of interbedded shales. See Figure 6 for a generalized
stratigraphic column for the region.
Beneath the Morrison Formation lies the Summerville Formation, an argillaceous sandstone with
interbedded shales, and the Entrada Sandstone. Beneath the Entrada lies the Navajo Sandstone. .
The Navajo and Entrada Sandstones constitute the primary aquifer in the area of the site. The
Entrada and Navajo Sandstones are separated from the Burro Canyon Formation by
approximately 1,000 to I,100 ft (305 to 335 m) of materials having a low average vertical
permeability. Groundwater within this system is under artesian pressure in the vicinity of the
site, and is used only as a secondary source of water at the site.
7.0 Hydrogeologic Setting
The site is located within a region that has a dry to arid continental climate, with average annual
precipitation of approximately 13.4 in. Recharge to aquifers occurs primarily along the
mountain fronts (for example, the Henry, Abajo, and La Sal Mountains), and along the flanks of
folds such as Comb Ridge Monocline.
Although the water quality and productivity of the Navajo/Entrada aquifer are generally good,
the depth of the aquifer (approximately 1,200 ftbelow land surface (bls)) makes access difficult.
The Navajo/Entrada aquifer is capable of yielding significant quantities of water to wells
(hundreds of gallons per minute (gpm)). Water in wells completed across these units at the site
rises approximately 800 ft above the base of the overlying Summerville Formation.
7.1 Perched Zone Hydrogeoloey
Perched groundwater beneath the site occurs primarily within the Burro Canyon Formation.
Perched groundwater at the site has a generally low quality due to high total dissolved solids
(TDS) in the range of 1,200 to 5,000 milligrams per liter (mg/L), and is used primarily for stock
watering and irrigation in the areas upgradient (north) of the site. The saturated thickness of the
perched water zone generally increases to the north of the site, increasing the yield of the
perched zone to wells installed north of the site. Perched water is supported within the Burro
Canyon Formation by the underlying, fine-grained Brushy Basin Member. Figure 7 is a contour
map showing the approximate elevation of the contact of the Burro Canyon Formation with the
Brushy Basin Member, which essentially forms the base of the perched water zone at the site.
Contact elevations are based on monitoring well drilling and geophysical logs and surveyed land
surface elevations. As indicated, the contact generally dips to the south/southwest beneath the
site.
The permeability of the Dakota Sandstone and Burro Canyon Formation at the site is generally
low. No significant joints or fractures within the Dakota Sandstone or Burro Canyon Formation
have been documented in any wells or borings installed across the site (Knight Piesold, 1998).
Any fractures observed in cores collected from site borings are typically cemented, showing no
open space.
Based on samples collected during installation of wells MW-16 and MW-17 (the locations of the
various monitoring wells are indicated on Figure 7), located immediately downgradient of the
tailings cells at the site, porosities of the Dakota Sandstone range from 13.4Vo to 267o, averaging
20Vo, and water saturations range from 3.77o to 2-7.27o, averaging l3.5%o. The average
volumetric water content is approximately 3Vo._The permeability of the Dakota Sandstone based
on packer tests in borings installed at the site ranges from 2.718-06 centimeters per second
(cm/s) to 9.12E-04 cm/s, with a geometric average of 3.89E-05 cm/s.
The average porosity of the Buno Canyon Formation is similar to that of the- Dakota Sandstone.
Based on samples collected from the Burro Canyon Formation at MW-16, located immediately
downgradient of the tailings cells at the site, porosity ranges from 2Vo to 29.1-Vo, averaging
t2
18.37o, and, water saturations of unsaturated materials range from 0.6Vo to ll .2Vo, averaging
23.4Vo. Titan, Julv 1994, reported that the hydraulic conductivity of the Burro Canyon
Formation ranges from I .9E-07 to I .6E-03 cm/s, with a geometric mean of I .l E-05 cm/s, based
on the results of 12 pump/recovery tests performed in monitoring wells and 30 packer tests
performed in borings prior to that time.
Hydraulic testing of wells MW-I, MW-3, MW-S5, MW-17, MW-18, MW-19, MW-20, and
NNV-22 during the week of July 8,2002, and rrewlv installed wclls MW-23. MW-25. MW-27.
M\\'-18.Ir{W-29. MW-30. Ir4W-ll. MW--12. TW4-20. Tw4-2I and TWzt-22 during June 20{}5.
yielded average perched zone permeabilities ranging from approximately p.0E-07 cm/s to 5.0E-
04 cm/s, similar to the range reported by previous investigators at the site (HGC, 2002, HGC.
2005). Downgradient (south to southwest) of the tailings cells, average perched zone
permeabilities based on tests at MW-3, MW-5, MW-17, MW-20, MW-22 and MW-23! ranged
from approximately 4.0E-07 to 41.0E-05{ cm/s. Permeability estimates were based on
pump/recovery and slug tests analyzed using several different methodologies.
A number of temporary (TW,l series) perched zone monitoring wells have been installed at the
site to investigate elevated concentrations of chloroform initially discovered at well MW-4 in
1999. Some of the conglomeratic zones encountered within the perched zone during installation
of these wells are believed to be partly continuous or at least associated with a relatively
continuous zone of higher permeability (IU$Anternational Uraniunr (USA) Corporatiorr and
HQOC, 2001). The higher permeability zone defined by these wells is generally located east to
northeast of the tailings cells at the site, and is hydraulically cross-gradient to upgradient of the
tailings cells with respect to perched groundwater flow. Relatively high permeabilities measured
at MW- I I , located on the southeastern margin of the downgradient edge of tailings Cell 3, and at
I\4W-14, located on the downgradient edge of tailings Cell 4, of 1.4E-03 cm/s and 7.5E-04 cm/s,
respectively (UMETCO, 1993), may indicate that this zone extends beneath the southeastern
margin of the cells. This zone of higher permeability within the perched water zone does not
appear to exist downgradient (south-southwest) ofthe tailings cells, however. At depths beneath
the perched water table, the zone is not evident in lithologic logs of the southernmost temporary
wells TW4-4 and TW4-6 (located east (cross-gradient) of Cell 3), nor is it evident in wells MW-
3, MW-5, MW-12, MW-15, MW-16, MW-17, MW-20, MW-21, or NNV-22,located south ro
southwest (downgradient) of the tailings cells, based on the lithologic logs or hydraulic testing of
the wells.
Because of the generally low permeability of the perched zone beneath the site, well yields are
typically low (less than 0.5 gpm), although susrainal.rle yields of_6_ggg[4; about 2,{ gpm may
be possible in wells intercepting the higher permeability zones on the east side of the site.
Sufficient productivity can, in general, only be obtained in areas where the saturated thickness is
greater, which is the primary reason that the perched zone has been used on a limited basis as a
water supply to the north (upgradient) of the site.
1.2 Perched Groundwater Flow
Perched groundwater flow at the site is generally to the south,/southwest. Figure 8 displays the
local perched groundwater elevation contours at the Mill. As indicated, the perched groundwater
gradient changes from generally southwesterly in the western portion of the site to generally
southerly in the eastern portion of the site.
Perched water discharges in springs and seeps along Westwater Creek Canyon and Cottonwood
Canyon to the west-southwest of the site, and along Corral Canyon to the east of the site, where
the Burro Canyon Formation outcrops. Perched water flowing beneath the tailings cells
eventually discharges in springs and seeps located in Westwater Canyon, to the south-southwest
of the cells. The primary discharge point for perched water flowing beneath the tailings cells is
believed to be Ruin Spring, located approximately 10,000 ft south-southwest of the Mill site, as
shown in Figure 9.
7.3 Perched Zone Hydrogeoloey
(Beneath and Down-gradient Of the Tailings Cells)
As of the 4thlff!-_-Quarter, 20061, perched water has been encountered at depths of
approximately 502 to I l5 ft below land surface (bls) in the vicinity of the tailings cells at the site
(Figure l0). Beneath tailings Cell 3, depths to water ranged from approximately 731 ft below
top of casing (btoc) east of the cell (at MW-3*l!), to approximately I 15{ ft btoc at the southwest
margin of the cell (at MW-23). Assuming an average depth of the base of tailings Cell 3 of 25 ft
below grade, this corresponds to perched water depths of approximately 4312 to 9Og9 ft below
the base of the cell, or an average depth of approximately 70 feet beneath the base of the cell. A
similal assuniotion can be ntade frrr nnrnoserl Cell zlB
The saturated thickness of the perched zone as of the 4rhSfel -Quarter, 2006f ranged from
approximately 94f ft in the northeast portion of the site to less than 5 ft in the southwest portion
of the site. Beneath tailings Cell 3, the saturated thickness varies from approximately 49 ft in the
eastemmost comer of the cell to approximately 67 ft in the western{r+(}{ik{}mer-pol!ig]l of the
cell. South-southwest of the tailings cells, the saturated thickness ranges from less than I ft at
N4W-21 to approximately 25Qft at MW -17. The average saturated thickness south-southwest of
the tailings cells, based on measurements at MW-3, MW-5, MW-12, MW-14, MW-15, MW-17,
and MW- 20, is approximately l4 ft. The average saturated thickness based on measurements at
MW-5, MW-15, IVIW-3, and MW-20, which lay close to a line between the center of tailings Cell
3 and Ruin Spring, is approximately 12 ft. By projecting conditions at these wells, the average
saturated thickness is estimated to be approximately l0 to 15 ft between MW-20 and Ruin
Spring.
Perched zone hydraulic gradients currently range from a maximum of approximately 0.04! feet
per foot (ftlft) l+nmed+a+e+y-n+*theast of tailings Cell 3l to l€-,,++h+r+qpp1A2qlt4qry 0.01 ftlft
downgradient of Cell 3, between Cell 3 and MW-20. The average hydraulic gradient between
the downgradient edge of tailings cell 3 and Ruin spring was approximated by HGC to be
approximately 0.012 fVft. HGC also estimated a hypothetical worst case average perched zone
hydraulic gradient, assuming the perched water elevation to be coincident with the base of
tailings Cell 3, to be approximately 0.019 ftlft. See Section 3.2 of Appendix A.
HGC also estimated the average permeability of the perched zone downgradient of tailings Cell
3, based on pump/recovery test and slug test data obtained from perched zone wells located
along the downgradient edge of and south of Cell 3, to be between 2.39F-05 cm/s and 4.3E-05
cm/s. See Section 3.31 of Appendix A
@.
7.4 GroundwaterOualitv
7.4.1 Entrada/Navajo Aquifer
The Entrada and Navajo Sandstones are prolific aquifers beneath and in the vicinity of the site.
Water wells at the site are screened in both of these units, and therefore, for the purposes of this
discussion, they will be treated as a single aquifer. Water in the Entrada,/Navajo Aquifer is under
artesian pressure, rising 800 to 900 ft above the top of the Entrada's contact with the overlying
Summervillle Formation; static water levels are 390 to 500 ft below ground surface.
Within the region, this aquifer is capable of yielding domestic quality water at rates of 150 to 225
gpm, and for that reason, it serves as a secondary source of water for the Mill. Additionally, two
domestic water supply wells drawing from the Entrada/Navajo Aquifer are located 4.5 miles
southeast of the Mill site on the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation. Although the water quality and
productivity ofthe Navajo/Entrada aquifer are generally good, the depth ofthe aquifer (>1,000 ft
bls) makes access difficult.
Table 2 is a tabulation of groundwater quality of the Navajo Sandstone aquifer as reported in theFESandsubsequentsampling.The@S)rangefrom244tol,ll0
mg/liter in three samples taken over a period from January 27 , 1977 , to May 4, 1977 . High iron
(0.057 mg/liter) concentrations are found in the Navajo Sandstone. Because the Navajo
Sandstone aquifer is isolated from the perched groundwater zone by approximately 1,000 to
1,100 ft of materials having a low average vertical permeability, sampling of the Navajo
Sandstone is not required under the Mill's previous NRC Point of Compliance monitoring
program or under the Mill's sStaters of Utah Groundwater D
(the "GWDP). However, samples were taken at two other deep aquifer wells (#2 and #5) on
site (See Figure l}! for the locations of these wells), on June 1, 1999 and June 8, 1999,
respectively, and the results are included in Table 2.
Table 2
Water Quality of Groundwater in the Milt Vicinity
-*-Try;-::(ff$**I"'di+ti&d'i::-;.--{10-ffi
Field Specific
Conductivity
(umhos/cm)
310 to 400
Field pH 6.9 to 7.6
Temperature ("C)Il to 22
Estimated Flow m/ln 109(20)
Parameter
FES, Test Well
(G2R)
Gl27n7 -3l23nsr')
WelI#2
clttpigl
Wetl #5
6/0u99r
(gpm)
pH 7.9 to 8.16
Determination, mg/titer
TDS (@180"C)216 to I110
Redox Potential 2Ll to 220
Alkalinity (as
CaCOST)180 to 224
Hardness, total (as
CaCO3)177 to 208
Bicarbonate 226 214
Carbonate (as CO:)0.0 <1.0 <1.0
Aluminum 0.003 0.058
Aluminum, dissolved <0.1
Ammonia (as N)0.0 to 0.16 <0.05 <0.05
Antimony <0.001 <0.001
Arsenic, total .007 to 0.014 0.018 <0.001
Barium, total 0.0 to 0.15 0.119 0.005
Beryllium <0.001 <0.001
Boron, total <0.1 to 0.11
Cadmium, total <0.005 to 0.0 <0.001 0.018
Calcium 50.6 39.8
Calcium. dissolved 5l to 112
Chloride 0.0 to 50 <1.0 z.J
Sodium I.t 9.8
Sodium, dissolved 5.3 to 23
Silver <0.001 <0.001
Silver, dissolved <0.002 to 0.0
Sulfate 28.8 23.6
Sulfate, dissolved (as
So+)17 to 83
Vanadium 0.003 0.003
Vanadium, dissolved <.002 to 0.16
Maganese 0.01I 0.032
Maganese, dissolved 0.03 to 0.020
Chromium, total 0.02 to 0.0 0.005 0.005
Copper, total 0.005 to 0.0 0.002 0.086
Fluoride 0.18 0.18
Fluoride. dissolved 0.1to 0.22
Iron, total 0.35 to 2.1 0.43 0.20
Iron. dissolved 0.30 to 2.3
Irad, total 0.02 - 0.0 <0.001 0.018
Magnesium 20.4 21.3
Magnesium, dissolved 15 to 2l
Mercury, total <.00002 to 0.0 <0.001 <0.001
Molybdenum 0.001 <0.001
Molybdenum,
dissolved 0.004 to 0.010
Nickel <0.001 0.004
Nitrate + Nitrate as N <0.10 <0.10
Nitrate (as N)<.05 to 0.12
Phosphorus, total (as
P)<0.01 to 0.03
Potassium 3.1 J.J
Potassium, dissolved 2.4 to 3.2
Selenium <0.001 <0.001
Selenium. dissolved <.005 to 0.0
Silica, dissolved (as
sio2)5.8 to t2
Strontium, total (as U)0.5 to 0.67
Thallium <0.001 <0.001
Uranium, total (as U)<.002 to 0.16 0.0007 0.0042
Uranium, dissolved (as
u)<.002 to 0.031
Zinc 0.010 0.t26
Zinc, dissolved 0.007 to 0.39
Total Organic Carbon 1.1 to 16
Chemical Oxygen
Demand <l to 66
Oil and Grease I
Total Suspended
Solids 6 to 1940 <1.0 10.4
Turbidity 5.56 t9.t
Parameter
FES, Test Well
(c2R)
(u27n7 -Sn3nrr)
weu #
6t0u99r
Determination (pCi/liter)
Gross Alpha <1.0
Gross Alpha +
precision 1.6+1.3 to 10.212.6
Gross Beta <2.0
Gross Beta + precision 8+8 to 73+19
Radium 226 +
precision 03+0.2
Radium 228 <1.0
Ra-226 + precision 0.1+.3 to 0.6+0.4
Th-230 + precision 0.110.4 to0.7+2.7
Pb-210+precision 0.014.0 to 1.012.0
Po -210 + precision 0.0+0.3 to 0.0+0.8
' Zero values (0.0) ile below detection limits.
Source: Adapted from FES Table 2.25 with additional Mill sampling data
7.4.2 Perched Groundwater Zone
Perched groundwater in the Dakota/Burro Canyon Formation is used on a limited basis to the
north (upgradient) of the site because it is more easily accessible. The quality of the Burro
Canyon perched water beneath and downgradient from the site is poor and extremely variable.
The concentrations of ttl+af+i+*+l+ved-sdia*+TDS) measured in water sampled from upgradient
and downgradient wells range between approximately 1,200 and 5,000 mg/I. Sulfate
concentrations measured in three upgradient wells varied between 670 and 1,740 mg/l (Titan,
Jttly 1994). The perched groundwater therefore is used primarily for stock watering and
inigation.
The saturated thickness of the perched water zone generally increases to the north of the site.
See Sectiorr 3.1 of Appendix A.
;a Mill Site- San Jtran €ountv, Utah dated Deeember
:OOep+epareA+y+n+e*
In€--Aependi;e€-
At the time of renewal of the Mill license by the NRC in March, 1997 and up until issuance oftheMill.s@GwDP3inMarch2005,theMillimplementeda
groundwater detection monitoring program to ensure compliance to l0 CFR Part 40, Appendix
A, in accordance with the provisions of M.i+&i'eeftieugel!9' condition ll.3A. The detection
monitoring program was in accordance with the report entitled, :foints of Compliance, White Formatted: Font: Italic
Mesa Uranium Mill,: submitted by letter to the NRC dated October 5, 1994 (Titan. September
1994). Under that program, the Mill sampled monitoring wells MW-5, MW-ll, MW-12, MW-
14, IVIW-15 and MW-17, on a quarterly basis. Samples were analyzed for chloride, potassium,
nickel and uranium, and the results of such sampling were included in the Mill's Semi-Annual
Effluent Monitoring Reports that were filed with the NRC up until August 2004 and with the
DRC subsequent thereto.
Prior to 1997, commencing in 1979,the Mill monitored up to 20 constituents in up to 13 wells.
That program was changed to the Points ofCompliance Program in 1997 because:
. The Mill and tailings system had produced no impacts to the perched zone or deep
aquifer; and
. The most dependable indicators of water quality and potential cell failure were
considered to be chloride, nickel, potassium and natural uranium.
8.0 Ecological Resources and Biota
8.l Tenestrial
a) Flora
The natural vegetation presently occurring within a 25-mile (40-km) radius of the Mill site is
very similar to that of the region, being characterized by pinyon-juniper woodland intergrading
with big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) communities. The pinyon-juniper community is
dominated by Utah juniper (Juniperus osteosperma) with occurrences of pinyon pine (Pinus
edulis) as a codominant or sub dominant tree species. The understory of this community, which
is usually quite open, is composed of grasses, forbs, and shrubs that are also found in the big
sagebrush communities. Common associates include galleta grass (Hilaria jamesii), green
ephedra (Ephedra viridis), and broom snakewood (Gutienezia sarothrae). The big sagebrush
communities occur in deep, well-drained soils on flat terrain, whereas the pinyon-juniper
woodland is usually found on shallow rocky soil of exposed canyon ridges and slopes. See
Section 2.9 of the 1978 ER.
Based on the work completed by Dames & Moore in the 1978 ER, no designated or proposed
endangered plant species occur on or near the project site (1978 ER, Section 2.8.2.1). Of the 65
proposed endangered species in Utah at that time, six have documented distributions in San Juan
County. A careful review of the habitat requirements and known distributions of these species
by Dames & Moore in the 1978 ER indicated that, because of the disturbed environment, these
species would probably not occur on the project site. The Navajo Sedge has been added to the
list as a threatened species since the Dames & Moore study.
In completing its the 2002 EAlseeNBg_ZQQa, NRC staff contacted wildlife biologists from the
BLM and the Utah Wildlife Service to gather local information on the occulrences of additional
species surrounding the Mill. ln the 2002 EA, NRC staff concluded that the Navajo Sedge has
ln the 2002 EA, NRC staff noted that, in the vicinity of the site, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service had provided the list set out in Table 3J9+, of the endangered, threatened, and
candidate species that may occur in the area around the site.
l
2l
Common Name Scientific Name Status
Navaio Sedse Carex specuicola Threatened
Bonvtail Chub Gila eleeans Endaneered
Colorado Pikeminnow Ptychocheilus lucius Endaneered
Humpback Chub Gila cvoha Endaneered
Razorback Sucker Xyrauchen texanus Endansered
Bald Eaele Haliaeetus leucocephalus Threatened
Califomia Condor Gymnosvps californianus Endaneered
Gunnison Sase Grouse Centrocercus minimus Candidate
Mexican Spotted Owl Strix occidentalis lucida Threatened
Southwestern Willow
Flvcatcher
Empidonax traillii extimus Endangered
Westem Yellow-billed
Cuckoo
Coccyzus americanus
occidentalis
Candidate
Black-footed Ferret Mustela nisripes Endaneered
Table 3 Endangered, Threatened and Candidate Species in the Mill Area
Source: 2002 EA
The 2002 EA also noted that, in addition, the species listed on Table 3=12-?4 may occur within
the Mill area that are managed under Conservation Agreements/Strategies
Table 4
Species Managed Under Conservation Agreements/Strategies at the Mill Area
Source: 2002 EA
For the 2002 EA, NRC staff contacted wildlife biologists from the BLM and the Utah Wildlife
Service to gather local information on the occuffences ofthese additional species surrounding
the Mill. NRC staff made the following conclusions (2002 EA p. 4):
While the ranges of the bald eagle, peregrine falcon, and willow flycatcher encompass the
project area, their likelihood of utilizing the site is extremely low. The black-footed ferret has
not been seen in Utah since 1952, and is not expected to occur any longer in the area. The
California Condor has only rarely been spotted in the area of Moab, Utah, (70 miles north) and
around Lake Powell (approximately 50 miles south). The Mexican Spotted Owl is only found in
the mountains in Utah, and is not expected to be on the Mesa. The Southwestern Willow
Flycatcher, Westem Yellow-billed Cuckoo, and Gunnison Sage Grouse are also not expected to
be found in the immediate area around the Mill site,
Comhorr Name Scienlific Name
Colorado River Cutthroat Trout Oncorhvnchus clark i oleuriticus
Gunnison Sase Grouse Centrocercus minimus
22
8.2 Aquatic and Wetlands Biota
Aquatic habitat at the Mill site ranges temporally from extremely limited to nonexistent due to
the aridity, topography and soil characteristics of the region and consequent dearth of perennial
surface water. Two small stockwatering ponds are located on the Mill site a few hundred yards
from the ore pad area (See Figure ll). One additional small "wildlife pond", east of Cell 4,A.,
was completed in 1994 to serve as a diversionary feature for migrating waterfowl. Although
more properly considered features of the tenestrial environment, these ponds essentially
represent the total aquatic habitat on the Mill site. These ponds probably harbor algae, insects,
other invertebrate forms, and amphibians. They also provide a water source for small mammals
and birds. Similar ephemeral catch and seepage basins are typical and numerous to the northeast
of the Mill site and south of Blanding.
Aquatic habitat in the Mill vicinity is similarly limited. The three adjacent streams (Conal
Creek, Westwater Creek, and an unnamed arm of Cottonwood Wash) are only intermittently
active, carrying water primarily in the spring during increased rainfall and snowmelt runoff, in
the autumn, and briefly during localized but intense electrical storms. Intermittent water flow
most typically occurs in April, August, and october in those streams. Again, due to the
temporary nature of these steams, their contribution to the aquatic habitat of the region is
probably limited to providing a water source for wildlife and a temporary habitat for insect and
amphibian species.
ln the 2002 EA, NRC staff concluded that (p. 4) no populations of fish are present on the project
site, nor are any known to exist in the immediate area of the site. Four species of fish designated
as endangered or threatened (the Bonytail Chub, Colorado Pikeminnow, Humpback Chub and
Razorback Sucker) occur in the San Juan River 18 miles south of the site, which Dames &
Moore noted in the 1978 ER (Section 2.8.2) is the closest habitat suitable for these species. NRC
staff further concluded that there are no discharges of mill effluents to surface waters, and
therefore, no impacts are expected for the San Juan River due to operations of the Mill.
9.0 BackgroundRadiologicalandNon-RadiologicalCharacteristics
Background Radiological and Non-Radiological Effects have been evaluated, updated andreportedextenSiVelyinDenison.sFebruary28,2007License@
Renewal Aprrlication and accompanying @, incorporated here by
reference.
10.0 Environmental Effects Related Directly to the Construction of Cell 4b{E
The environmental effects of Cell 4MB construction consist of those related to the release of
airborne particulate (dusting), radon release from the operating cell, and the impact, if any, on
groundwater beneath the pond. In order to evaluate these environmental considerations two
separate evaluations were completed,, Site Hydrogeology Estimation Of Groundwater Travel
Times and Recommended Additional Monitoring Wells For Proposed Tailings Cetl 4B_White
Mesa uranium Mill site Near Blanding, utah, Hydro Geo Chem, Inc.n J=L}Jllilr.v=1 2008 and oe*e Formatted: Font: Not Italic
@Proposed Development of New Tailings Cells;lB For the White
Mesa (Jranium Mill, SENES Consultants, Ltd, April2008. {ilffi
These evaluations are provided as Appendix A and Appendix B, respectively, and are discussed
in summary in the pertinent subsections below.
10.1 Groundwater Pathway Impact
Theevaluationprovidedbv@findsthattrave|timeforanywater
exiting the pond to the perched water zone and then to the point(s) of perched zone discharge is
very long, far exceeding the time period of milling operations and closure of the tailings cells
when little free liquid is available for infiltration through the cell liner system. More
specifically, HGC found that the time for fluids that could be released from +he-eQellsl_eleg!
48 to reach the points of seepage and spring formation at rRuin s$pring and Cottonwood seep
are on the order of several thousand years. However, this analysis is very conservative in that
travel time through the pond liner was not considered, and because the liner system! i*ggg robust,
and in the case rlf Cell 48 state-of-the art construction, travel time through the liner is a
significant protective factor. In fact, this aspect has been evaluated extensively by MWH
Americas, Inc. in their report Infiltration and Contaminant Transport Modeling Report, \Uhi*
M1"c+-44+llMiU site, Blanding utah, November, 2007, incorporated here by reference. The
infiltration modeling effort revealed that the construction design for Cells 4a44 and 4b4B willmeetthe''ClosedCellPerformanceRequirements.'[e-mail]
at Part LD.6. More specifically, MWH concluded that the approved reclamation plan for the
cells will meet the following regulatory requirements for a period of not less than 200 years:
a) Minimize infiltration of precipitation or other surface water into the tailings,
including but not limited to the radon barrier;b) Prevent the accumulation of leachate head within the tailings waste layer that
could rise above or over-top the maximum FMt-IlrlrblC-lfg11fb.rul9 liner elevation
internal to any disposal cell, i.e. create a "bathtub" effect; and,c) Ensure that groundwater quality at the compliance monitoring wells does not
exceed Ground Water Quality Standards or Ground Water Compliance Limits
specified in Part l.C.l and Table 2 of the ++rn+i+GWD!.
10.2 ProposedAdditional GroundwaterMonitoring
In order to monitor the performance of Cell 4b,18, and consistent with United States
Environmental
Protection Asencv ("EPAI Guidance, it was concluded by @, that an
additional well or wells will be needed to monitor the Cell's performance at the downgradient
edge of the eCell. This is in addition to the many wells already incorporated into the
forthefacility.Accordingly,twoadditionalwellsare
proposed, one at the southwest corner ofproposed Cell 4b4B and one betweenthe5gg[ southwest
corner well and existing well MW-15 (See Figure l0 of Appendix Bfu. These installations will
conservatively maintain the approximate existing spacing as defined by the proximity of MW-14
to MW- l5 along the downgradient edge of existing Cell 4a214.
10.3 Radiologicallmpact
In February 2007, a dose assessment was prepared for DU$ADggi5g11 by SENES consultants,
Ltd. in support of the [icense rRenewal aApplication (see Anoendix C to the 2007 ER)f**+he
H+i+{. MILDOS-AREA was used to estimate the dose commitments that could potentially be
received by individuals and the general population within a 50 mile (80 km) radius for
processing of conventional ores. The assessment was prepared for scenarios in which Colorado
Plateau (0.257o U3O8 and l.5Vo Y2O5) or Arizona Strip (0.6377o U3O8) ores are processed ar
the +*lv[ill.
In order to evaluate the radiological impact of Cell 4b4B's operation the prior dose assessment
analyses was extended from the previous report of February 2007 to incorporate the dose from
the proposed development of new tailings cells anticipated in the future. The results of this
extended assessment are provided as Attae{+r++er*ppgle[x B to this rBeport (Proposed
Development of New Tailings ceells;{} For The white Mesa uranium Mill, SENES, 2008), and
reveal that the addition of Cell :lb{E to the facility will not impact the ability of the facility to
comply with regulatory requirements
The {J'S-NRC- approved MILDOS-AREA was used to estimate the dose commitments received
by individuals and the general population within a 50 mile (80 km) radius of the site for the
processing of either Colorado Plateau or Arizona Strip ore separately. In each scenario, the
doses arising from emissions of dust and radon from the +nMill area and ore pads were assumed
to be the same as the previous 2007 report since the scenarios both involve the processing of
Colorado Plateau and Arizona Strip ores. Therefore, MILDOS-AREA runs from the previous
report were revised to exclude the tailings cells. The doses from the tailings cells were estimated
in separate MILDOS-AREA runs and added to the dose from the r*Nlill area and ore pads. For
purPoses of rnt)delirre Mill operations. SENES separated operations into two phases. to reflect
tlre sequencins of plarrned Mill operations. Phase I involves the continued use of Cell I for
solution evaporation. the continuecl use of Cell 3 fbr solution evaporation and the disposal of
tailinqs solids. and the use of Cell 44, for disposal of tailings solids and solution evanoration.
Phase 2 occLu's after Cell 3 is firll and is no longer an acrive cell. Dlrrins Phase 2. Cells 4,A and
'trB are trsed for disposal of tailines solids and solution evaDoration, ancl Cell I is used fbr
soltrtiorl evaporation. In each Phase. Cell 2. with interint soil cover over the entire cell area. is
included in the ntodel. and in Phase 2. Cell 3. with interim soil cover over the entire cell area. is
included in the model.
Table 4! provides a summary of the source terms included in Phases I and 2 of the development
of new tailings cells including Cells 4a4A and 4b48.
TABLE 45
SOURCE TERMS INCLUDED IN PHASE I AND 2
Source Term Phase I Phase 2
Mill area included included
Ore Pads included included
ffi
Source Term Phase I Phase 2
Tailings Cell 2 with Interim Soil
Cover
included included
Tailings Cell 3 active intenm
soil cover
included Interim soil cover
Tailines Cell4A active active
Tailinss Cell4B excluded active
The wind erosion and radon release rates from the tailings cells (active and with interim soil
cover) were modeled by using a maximal worst case approach.
Each active tailings cell was modeled to have an active area of l0 acres (i.e., the maximum
expected to be uncovered at any time since it is not possible to predict the distribution of
uncovered tailings between the active cells at any given time. The release rate of wind-eroded
tailings dust was estimated for l0 acres. The total annual radon release rate was estimated by
assuming a radon release rate of 20 pCi/m2s (i.e., maximum-radon-222 emissions to ambient air
from an existing uranium mill pile) over the entire area of each cell consistent with NESHAPs.
Emissions from the tailings cells (2 and 3) with interim soil cover were assumed to occur over
the entire area of each cell; however, only radon is released at a rate of l0 pCi/m2s after the
application ofthe soil cover.
The calculated total annual effective dose commitments (including radon) calculated using
MILDOS-AREA were compared to the Utah Administrative Code R3l3-15-301(l)(a)
requirement that the dose to individual members of the public shall not exceed 100 mrem/yr
(radon included). For processing efColorado
Plateau ore, the maximum total annual effective dose commitments was calculated hv SENES to
be a maximum of 1.4 mrem/yr for an infant at the nearest potential resident, BHV-I (Tables 6.1-l
and 6.1-3 of Apperrdix B) (i.e., effective dose) and is about l.4Va of the R3l3-15-301(lXa) limit
of 100 mrem/yr (radon included) to an individual member of the public for Phases I and 2. For
processing ef-Arizona Strip ore, the total
annual effective dose commitments were calculated hy SENES to be a maximum of 3.1 mrem/yr
for an infant at the nearest potential resident, BHV-I (Tables 6.2-I and 6.2-3 of Annendix B)
(i.e., effective dose) and is about 3.l%o of the 100 mrem/yr limit (radon included) to an individual
member of the public for Phases I and 2. Overall, the predicted annual effective dose
commitments for Phases I and 2 and the proposed development of new tailings eCells .[B during
anticipated ore processing operations comply with R3l3-15.
In addition, etx{lq MILDOS-AREA calculated 40 CFR 190 annual dose commitments
(excluding radon) were compared to the 40 CFR 190 criterion, which is 25 mrentlyr to the whole
body (excluding the dose due to radon) and 25 mrem,/yr to any other organ to any member of the
public ($Ji-EPA2002). The 40 CFR 190 doses were also used to demonstrate compliance with
R313-15-101(4) (10 CFR 20.ll0l(d)) (i.e., the licensee must demonstrate that total effective
dose equivalent to the individual member of the public likely to receive the highest total effective
dose equivalent will not exceed 10 mrem/yr (absent of the radon dose)). For prcpesed
m
decommissioned in place, creation of a new mill site would result in unnecessary proliferation of
mill tailings disposal facilities in contravention of l0 CFR Part 40 Appendix A, Criterion 2.
b) Consideration of Alternative Engineerine Methods
heexistingMillfacilities,equipment,proceduresand
training of personnel have resulted in the Mill operating since inception in compliance with all
applicable regulatory standards and ALARA goals. Current modeling demonstrates that the Milt
is capable of continuing to operate under the existing terms and conditions of the License in a
manner that will continue to comply with such standards and goals. Furthermore, the Mill's
GWDP institutes additional protections and engineering controls, including the requirement that
any new construction of tailings cells must meet current best available technology standards.
Therefore, there is no need to consider alternative engineering methods. The existing equipment
and facilities, together with the existing terms and conditions of the License and the GWDP are
sufficient to ensure that all applicable requirements will continue to be satisfied. More
srrecitically. the rrrorxrsed Cell 48 design is essentiall)' the sanre as the desisn of Cell 44. which
incorporates Be-st Available Technology and which has hecn anproved by the Executive
Secletarr-.
I 1.4 Cumulative Effects
There are no past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions which could result in
cumulative impacts that have not been contemplated and previously approved under the existing
l4i+l+i€€{*eugetr$ and the de s i gn of,CeJ-ll I 4h4 B.
As stated throughout this License Amendment request, the Cell ;lb;18 construction will result in
no activity with potential, significant, incremental impacts to public health, safety or the
environment over and above the actions contemplated in the FES. ald the 1985€'4 and the-1997
EA1. The activities contemplated with regard to ore processing and disposal of tailings remain
unchanged from those previously authorized under the License.
11.5 Comparison of the Predicted Environmental Impacts
There have been no observed significant impacts which were not previously quantified and
addressed to public health, safety or the environment resulting from the proposed construction of
Cell 4€8. As there will be no significant changes in Mill operations if the License is amended
to accommodate construction of Cell 4b{E, possible impacts to public health, safety or the
environment will not exceed those predicted in the original License application and periodic
renewals.
I 1.6 Undates & Changes to Factors That Mav Cause Reconsideration of Altematives
As discussed in Section 12 below, Costs and Benefits, there have been no changes to factors that
may cause reconsideration of altematives. There have been no significant changes in the costs
associated with operation of the Mill (including its impoundments), and the benefits associated
with continued operation and construction of already contemplated tailing cells have become
.arLt
more evident over time as the number of uranium mills has dwindled and the demand for
uranium milling service capacity from local miners and the industry as a whole has increased in
alternatives to the services provided by the Mill and its impoundments have been identified since
the last License renewal in 1997.
12.0 Cost and Benefits
Appendix A to NUREG 1569 requires that the applicant for a license renewal describe any
updates and changes to the economic costs and benefits for the facility since the last application.
There have been no significant changes to the costs associated with the Mill since the last
License renewal in 1997. While there will a change to the currently disturbed area as a result of
the Cell 4b4B construction, this additional Cell was contemplated, described and assessed, as a
critical component of the initial +978-AR€-EISEES and attendant licensing of the facility. As
indicated in Section 3 of lhe Febnrarf2OO7 ER accompanying the renewal application, the Mill
has operated in accordance with applicable regulatory standards and ALARA goals since its
inception, and updated MILDOS AREA modeling indicates that the Mill is capable of continuing
to operate well within those standards and goals. There have been no significant demographic
changes that have impacted the ability of the Mill to operate in a manner that will result in no
significant impacts to public health, safety or the environment. It is expected that continued Mill
operations will continue to draw primarily upon the existing work force in the area with little
impact on social services.
The Mill is one of only two operating uranium mills in the United States and is one of the largest
private employers in San Juan County The benefits of the Mill will continue to be the provision
of well-paying jobs to workers in San Juan County and the support of the tax base in that
County. Moreover, as the only operating uranium mill on the westem slope of the Rocky
Mountains, the Mill is relied upon by the large number of independent uranium miners in San
Juan County and the Colorado Plateau as the only feasible uranium mill for their uranium ores.
With the recent gap between the supply and demand for uranium and the increases in the price of
uranium, the need for continued licensing of the Mill is crucial for such miners and for the
uranium industry in the United States as a whole.
In sum, the costs associated with the operation of the Mill have not changed significantly, but the
benefits have become more evident over time as the number of uranium mills has dwindled and
the demand for uranium milling services from local miners and the industry as a whole has
increased.
13.0 Mitigation of Impacts 22
NUREG 1569 requires that the ER provide the "results of effectiveness of any mitigation
proposed and implemented in the original license". In the case of the White-Mesa-Milllvli!!,
there have not been any mitigations proposed or implemented under the License.
14.0 Long Term Impacts
32
The long term impacts, including decommissioning, decontamination, and reclamation Impacts
associated with activities conducted pursuant to the License have been considered in detail in the
FES, the Mill's Reclamation Plan, and the 2000 EA (NRC, 2000) prepared by the NRC in
fdiifffi$f-h:il,
reference. The construction of Cell 4b{B will not result in any changes to operations at the Mill
that would impact decommissioning, decontamination or reclamation aspectg associated with
Mill activities, or- the previous analyses of such aspects. The grading contours and other
reclamation features related to closure of Cell 4hfiat site closure are shown in Figure 1?J. All
design features for Cell 4b4B are included in the pe_ll !4& PeSiSl! RCpSf!:y!!!L ISJS g! . , - { rormatted: Font: Italic
Btandine, Llrah. prepared by Geosyntec Consultants, whiih was tt*irnitGOlo=EeQ in
December of 2007.
JJ
(l/+
NRC. Office of Nuclear Material Safetv and Safeguards Division of Waste Manaqement.
February 1997 . Ent ironmental Assessnrcnt for Renewctl of $q!rt'e= L4!!e!i!r! Li_lerys.g .!\,1..9,SUA-1358 Enerpv Fuels Nucleur, Inc. White Mesa lJrctnium Mill Sun.luan Countt,, ILtah
NRC. Division of Waste Management Office of Nuclear Material Saf'ety and Sat'eguards.
uranium Mill site white Mestt, san Juon Coun\', rJtcth in Consideration of an
Anrendntent to Source Mttterial Lic,ense SUA-1358 fbr the Aprtrot,a! of the proposed
Reclanatiott Plan.
NBQ,.Qiy!sjo=rr,,o=flugt Qvc]e gefgt]'=.atfl lgtequerd:..9,.ffige= qf=l=\uc;Jeq Mqtq=riql gsfllrqn4
Safeluards. Augttsl22,20O2. Ent,ironnrcntal Assessnrcnt For Internationol L/raniunr
(usAI corporation's uranium Mi!! site white Mesa, san Jucut Countv, utcth, In
Con.sideration oIq.ArlendnLelt! to SlttrLC.s Mqtg4c]l Li€e!;te.-ttJ!:tJJQ &[.ilte"Re_c€ipl
ctt 4 P t qc: e I s,i ryq clf =1tr e= U S t y q o! 4 I t e.,ructt g F q q4
NRC. Division of Fuel Cycle Safetv and Saf'eeuards OfTice of Nuclear Material Safety and
Safes.uard,s. June2003. Standard Review, Pten fur L.!1=$it_!=Le!!h (/{a"4.iur!l!!;t!!!et!o!1.
Li c e n se A p o I ic crt i on s, F i n a I Re po rt, NTJREG - | 569 .
SgNeS C,,nsufra
Renewal Applicarion & Ent'ironmental Report.fj[ lhe Vhile=LlgVt=ULWltgrJ MilJ.
SErugS Corrsuftar
the White Mesa Uranittttt Mill.
Monitorins. Propront.fbr the White Mesa uraniun Mill .
I=IT 4N=Etw=i\o!ffFlyal C_.qpolarioJl; = J_uly =1924. -L\:!tre.qegLoELcgL ElctttcJtion_ of= V!1!tg .M<sttUraniurn Mill.
TITAN Environmental Conroration. September 1994. Poinl.s ol Conrpllance l4lhrte Me,sn
Uranirrttr Mill.
Umetco Minerals Corporation and Peel Environmental Services. 1993. Croaredr.r'arer Strrrly,
White Mesa Facilities, Blandins. IJtah.
U.S. Department of Commerce. 19J7. Clinatic Atlas o.f the lJniteel States. reprinted by the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1977.
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