Navajo Nation Strikes Historic Deal with Mining Giant on Uranium Ore Transport

After extensive negotiations, the Navajo Nation has reached a significant agreement with Energy Fuels Inc. to permit the transportation of uranium ore through federal and state highways across the Navajo Nation. Transportation activities are slated to resume in February.

Stephen Etsitty, executive director of the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency, emphasized the importance of the agreement, which includes provisions for the Navajo Nation to monitor and inspect the haul trucks and financial support for enhancing safety and environmental protections.

This agreement follows a voluntary suspension by Energy Fuels in response to concerns raised by the tribe after the company’s initial transport was conducted with minimal notification. Negotiations resumed in August 2024, addressing these serious concerns.

Mark Chalmers, President and CEO of Energy Fuels, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with the Navajo Nation, stating their commitment to ensuring safe and respectful uranium transport.

Although the complete details of the agreement remain undisclosed, the company published an overview. Energy Fuels has agreed to exceed federal transportation requirements, including restricted routes and hours, and will avoid transportation on days of cultural significance to the tribe.

The company is also implementing clear emergency response protocols, ensuring additional insurance coverage, and providing extensive training for its drivers, who will obtain special transport licenses from the Navajo Nation.

In a significant shift, Energy Fuels has committed to utilizing advanced cover systems to prevent dust emissions, along with provisions for escorts and blessings from the Navajo Nation, reinforcing respect for tribal practices.

Heather Clah, acting attorney general of the Navajo Nation, acknowledged the sincere approach taken by Energy Fuels’ negotiation team. She emphasized their understanding of the historical trauma associated with uranium transportation.

The planned route encompasses over half of the 320-mile distance required for transportation, with 174 miles crossing through Navajo land.

Governor Katie Hobbs remarked that the agreement reflects a commitment to protecting future generations while respecting tribal sovereignty and valuing all voices in the decision-making process.

In addition, Energy Fuels has agreed to transport up to 10,000 tons of uranium-bearing cleanup materials from abandoned mines within the Navajo Nation. The company has pledged to support local safety programs, education, public health, and economic development relevant to uranium issues, though specific details are yet to be disclosed.

Chalmers affirmed the company’s commitment to maintaining a constructive relationship with the Navajo Nation and fulfilling their obligations outlined in the agreement. He expressed hope for future collaborative opportunities focused on cleanups and shared interests.

Energy Fuels reported a history of safe transport, having moved hundreds of thousands of tons of uranium ore along the relevant highways from 2007 to 2024 without any incidents of spillage or release.

The measures established in this agreement are designed to provide additional safety layers for the Navajo community, surpassing the standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation.