Uranium mining in Virginia poses serious concerns.  Improperly done, as it frequently has been in the past, the ramifications could linger for thousands of years.

Colorado does have experience with this mining industry saddled with a "shameful legacy ... of human and environmental devastation." Because of its experience, Colorado recently adopted House Bill 1161 that requires any prospective in situ leachate mine to demonstrate five successful mines under similar circumstances before a mining permit may be issued.

Virginia should profit from Colorado's hard won education. Virginia should take no action to initiate or sanction a study of uranium mining until the industry provides reviewable information demonstrating that uranium mining and milling have been undertaken in at least five locations with population density and climate comparable to Virginia's and that uranium mining, milling and waste disposal operations in those locations were undertaken in such a manner as to safeguard the environment, natural and historic resources, agricultural lands, and the health and well-being of citizens of those communities.

If uranium mining and milling is as benign as proponents insist, this barrier quickly will be overcome and Virginia then can proceed with an independent legislative study with citizen participation and public hearings to determine whether the development of a uranium mining and milling industry would be in the best interests of the Commonwealth and the well-being of citizens.

What you can do:
Ask your legislators to oppose any attempts to lift the ban on uranium mining. Find your elected officials.
Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper.
Ask your local governing body or civic association to adopt a resolution against uranium mining.
Talk to your friends and neighbors about this serious issue and ask them to oppose any attempts to allow uranium mining in Virginia.
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