The Tribune – Reader Submissions
I, too, worry about uranium mining
Guest Commentary
September 2, 2007Comment Comments (0) Print Friendly Print Email Email
EDITOR’S NOTE: We received word late Friday afternoon that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission had agreed to Congresswoman Musgrave’s request to extend the comment period regarding a proposed uranium mine near Nunn. The following commentary was written prior to Friday. For the full story on the NRC’s extension, go to www.greeleytribune.com.
During the past several weeks I have heard from a number of my constituents in Weld and Larimer counties who are alarmed about the potential consequences of a proposed in-situ uranium mine near Nunn. Chief among their concerns is the impact this mining operation could have on the underground water supply in the area.
Like many of my constituents, I share this concern.
Recently, I petitioned the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to strictly monitor any changes that would adversely affect water quality standards for in-situ uranium mining operations.
I vehemently oppose any effort by the NRC to usurp the authority of state health departments and the Environmental Protection Agency over water quality. Local residents in Weld and Larimer depend on the water quality protections that are currently in place so they can continue to have access to clean, safe water.
I am convinced that any effort by the NRC to impose inferior water quality standards would undoubtedly impact public health, the environment, and local agriculture. Under no circumstances should in-situ mining operations be allowed to subvert state or EPA water quality standards.
In addition, I have petitioned the NRC to extend the public comment period for the ongoing environmental impact statement for proposed the uranium mining facility. The potential impacts on the rural communities are too significant to not allow local residents ample time to investigate and comment on the impacts it could have on their health, property, and livelihoods.
Weld and Larimer residents deserve a thorough, open and fair process so they can make informed decisions and comment on this proposed uranium project.
The availability of safe, dependable water supplies is absolutely essential to life. As stewards of these resources, we are required to ensure that they are protected for generations to come. I will continue to work on behalf of concerned citizens and demand that their health and property are protected.
Congresswoman Marilyn Musgrave, R-Colo., represents Colorado’s 4th Congressional District, which includes all of Weld County. She is a member of the House committees on agriculture and small business.
CONTACT INFORMATION
«Rep. Marilyn Musgrave
* In Colorado: 5400 11th St., Greeley, CO 80634; (970) 352-4037; fax (970) 352-1915
* In Washington: 1507 Longworth House Office Building; Washington, DC 20515; (202) 225-4676; fax (202) 225-5870
* Web site: http://musgrave.house.gov/
«U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission — Mailing address: Washington, DC 20555-0001; telephone (800) 368-5642 or (301) 415-7000
* Web site: www.nrc.gov/. To submit comments, search under “contact us.”
«Powertech Uranium Corp. — Investor Relations North America, 1205-789 West Pender St., Vancouver, BC, Canada V6C 1H2; telephone: (604) 685-9181; fax: (604) 685-9182
* Web site: www.powertechuranium.com
«Coloradoans Against Resource Destruction — P.O. Box 271; Nunn, CO 80648; telephone (970) 372-0029; e-mail, info@nunnglow.com
* Web site: www.nunnglow.com
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