From the Fort Collins Coloradoan (Bobby Magill):
Critics of the [Powertech Centennial Project] said Thursday the Western Slope mill approval says little about how the state might approach its review of the Centennial Project…
Powertech’s uranium mining and processing method [in situ leach mining] would be different than the conventional hard-rock uranium mining and milling that may occur in Montrose County. At the Centennial Project, Powertech proposes to use a baking soda-like solution to dissolve the uranium underground, pump it to the surface and process it on site. “It’s up to us to lay out a responsible and clear guideline of what we’re going to be doing there so the agency can review it and determine a positive result,” Powertech USA President Richard Clement said Thursday. “The companies who understand the resources know there are clear guidelines they have to follow to get permits and licenses. As long as you follow those guidelines, then you will be successful.”[…]
Environmentalists said the approval doesn’t mean the state won’t scrutinize the Centennial Project carefully before permitting it. “I think it’s fair to say that the state is not opposed to uranium mining, so they’re going to make judgments on a case-by-case basis,” said Matt Garrington of Environment Colorado. He said the state’s approval of the mill might signal to other uranium mining companies that Colorado’s door is open for uranium extraction.