Havasupai Tribe Condemns Energy Fuels and Navajo Nation for Exclusion from Uranium Haul Negotiations

The Havasupai Tribe has voiced strong opposition as uranium hauling resumes from the Pinyon Plain Mine. This decision has raised concerns about potential health risks and environmental hazards associated with uranium mining.

Energy Fuels, Inc. restarted operations after a six-month halt, following an agreement with the Navajo Nation allowing transportation through Navajo land. The agreement mandates a 14-day notice for the Navajo Nation prior to any hauling; however, the Havasupai Tribe will not receive advance notice.

In a statement to The Arizona Mirror, the Havasupai Tribe expressed dismay at being excluded from discussions regarding the mine’s operations. They emphasize that the mine lies within their ancestral territory and that the haul route skirts Red Butte Mountain, a site of cultural significance.

“We are deeply disappointed in Energy Fuels and the Navajo Nation for not including us in their discussions that ultimately led to this dangerous decision,” the tribe stated. Despite extensive advocacy efforts, their requests to suspend operations have been ignored.

The Pinyon Plain mine is situated on U.S. Forest Service land within the Kaibab National Forest, adjacent to the Grand Canyon. Several tribal nations, including the Havasupai, Navajo, and Hopi, have historical ties to this land.

“As Guardians of the Grand Canyon, we have opposed uranium mining in and around our Reservation to protect our people and region,” the tribe declared. They emphasize that the mine threatens their water supply and sacred cultural sites.

The tribe has continuously highlighted the adverse impacts of mining on their heritage and environment. “This is real for us. Our culture is intertwined with this land,” they stated, reflecting their deep connection to the region.

Energy Fuels announced it will utilize 24-ton haul trucks for transporting uranium ore, with plans for two trucks daily in February and an increase to ten trucks in the forthcoming months. The trucks will follow a route through the Kaibab Forest before reaching State Route 64, passing near the culturally significant Red Butte Mountain along the way.

Despite assurances regarding safety, the Havasupai Tribe remains vigilant about the health implications tied to radioactive materials. “We will not give up. We owe that to our ancestors, our children, and the generations to come,” they vowed, underscoring their commitment to continue advocating against the mining operations.