Frequently Asked Questions

What is uranium?

Uranium is a naturally occurring element found in the earth’s crust and in many rock types as well as in seawater. Typically, uranium deposits are discontinuous and come in various unique shapes. Uranium is made into fuel for power generating plants. In the U.S., power plants fueled by uranium produce nearly 20 percent of the nation’s electricity, and more than 35% of Virginia's.

What is uranium mining?

Uranium is mined essentially the same ways as any other mineral. Mining techniques include three proven methods – surface, underground and solution or “in situ” recovery, where valuable ore assets are extracted from a deposit using a chemical process. At the Coles Hill site, the experts will explore the safest and best methods by which to mine the site.

Can uranium ore be mined safely in a place like Pittsylvania County?

Yes, we believe that mining can be implemented safely. However we would like the Commonwealth of Virginia to sponsor an independent scientific study to address the impact of mining on the community. The safety of our neighbors, wildlife and environment is our first concern. We will review existing site studies and investigate other mines in order to recognize the best practices that will enable us to identify the best technologies to mine uranium safely here.

How will the uranium found in the Coles Hill deposit be mined?

The results of the independent study will provide the framework to allow us to determine the most appropriate mining method for the Coles Hill site. Three types of mining are normally in use and will be investigated for the project: surface, underground, and in-situ, or a combination of the three.

What will the land look like during mining operations?

The type of mining selected will affect the appearance of mining operations. If in-situ is used, a wellfield will exist on the site, and the only portion visible will be rigs and a processing building. For underground mining, the mine head frame and the processing buildings would be visible. For surface mining, the open pit and associated equipment would be visible. In all instances, however, operations will be shielded from view from public roads by setbacks, buffer zones and other aesthetic barriers.

How would VUI ensure against effects of uranium mining on public health?

As residents of Pittsylvania County ourselves, we are concerned about the health and safety of our families and the environment.

Any industrial operation carries some level of risk, whether it is manufacturing, large-scale farming or mining. We are committed to minimizing any risk of this operation while providing long-term jobs and economic development. We will work with the local, state and federal governmental agencies that will license and monitor our operations to make sure that we will fully comply with all safety and environmental regulations.

Essentially, the operation will be like any other mining project for coal or any other mineral. While the concentrated uranium ore at Coles Hill carries slightly more natural radioactivity than other minerals carrying trace levels of uranium, that radioactivity has always been present at Coles Hill--the Coles and Bowen families and all of Chatham, VA have lived with it for generations. Earlier studies have shown that the closest neighbor will not receive any more radiation from mining over a period of four years than from a single chest x-ray.

What assurances can be given that the local drinking water will be safe?

Virginia Uranium will use advanced groundwater monitoring, extraction, storage and disposal technology to protect local water supplies. Computer Modeling offers quicker and more accurate models of ground water flow. The International Atomic Energy Agency has compiled best practices from eleven countries from their evaluation of methods at current and past mine sites to deal with mill tailings and gas releases. We will also comply fully with federal laws such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Clean Water Act, the EPA Clean Air Act and the National Regulatory Commission (NRC) Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act, which were enacted to protect the environment and make sure that companies develop resources responsibly.

What is the projected impact on agricultural lands in areas near the project site?

Pittsylvania County, and the Coles Hill site in particular, has a long agricultural history. The project mine site is on land that the Coles and Bowen families have lived on for many generations (some as far back as the 1780s). The current residents of Coles Hill plan to continue living there while mining operations are underway. They will continue to grow crops nearby and their cattle will continue grazing there.

Programs to safeguard the environmental well-being of agricultural lands will be put in place and monitored by state and federal officials, Virginia Uranium, and independent experts.

How will Pittsylvania County and other counties in the region benefit from having VUI in operation?

Our guiding principles lay out priorities that assure we use this mining operation for the best interests of the town, the county and the surrounding region. The Virginia Energy Plan includes the Coles Hill deposit as an important resource in meeting the state’s energy goals, and we fully support the Plan’s goals to increase in-state production of energy and growth of the state’s nuclear industry.

As the host county, Pittsylvania County will receive proceeds from property and other business-related taxes. We expect that all neighboring counties will receive financial gains from the project. We plan to hire and make purchases from throughout Southside Virginia, whenever possible. We will be active in our community and make investments in our region that are beyond the creation of jobs and additions to the tax base.

Additionally, 35 percent of the electricity that powers Virginia’s economy comes from nuclear power. With the Coles Hill uranium deposit, Pittsylvania County is home to a vital resource in Virginia’s continued economic development and move toward energy independence.

How many jobs would be created?

When construction and operations are approved and ready to begin, we expect to create quality, well-paying jobs. We are committed to hiring locally and using local suppliers whenever possible. We will establish training programs to ensure that operators have the skills they need to safely run the equipment of a modern mine and mill, while protecting the environment.

Depending on the type of mining selected, the number of jobs could range from approximately 100 full-time employees for an in-situ mine to approximately 300-500 full-time employees for an underground or surface mine. The number of construction jobs would also vary, depending on the type of mining selected, ranging from about 200 to 1,000 jobs. We expect to have more information on this matter when the feasibility study is completed.

Which regulatory bodies are involved in maintaining public and environmental safety?  

Multiple agencies regulate various aspects of mining and milling operations. These include the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, the Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission sets strict requirements for milling and mill management facilities for the public’s health and safety, with an ample safety margin. Local agencies will also be involved, such as the local Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors, police, fire and health departments.

How do I find out more information on the status of the regulatory and permitting processes?

We encourage you to Contact Us to be kept apprised of news and events pertaining to Virginia Uranium, Inc.