Will Powertech also be undertaking open pit mining?
Powertech is evaluating the feasibility of mining all of the deposits with the ISR method. However, open pit mining for a couple of the deposits is a last-resort possibility. We have suggested that we are looking at the possibility of a gravel quarry on the southern properties, where the ore bodies are much shallower. Where the ore is shallow, there may not be any water present surrounding the ore. We are looking at several methods of recovery for this shallow ore and we are considering removing the valuable gravel deposits over the ore and then removing the natural uranium ore to transport it to a mill facility. We have also identified another method wherein we can use slurry walls surrounding the ore to isolate the uranium, and through purchase of water rights, increase the water level for In-Situ Recovery (ISR) production. It will take more extensive testing before we make an application for either of these methods. There will be no tailings at the Centennial site even if there were
Powertech is evaluating the feasibility of mining all of the deposits with the ISR method. However, open pit mining for a couple of the deposits is a last-resort possibility. We have suggested that we are looking at the possibility of a gravel quarry on the southern properties, where the ore bodies are much shallower. Where the ore is shallow, there may not be any water present surrounding the ore. We are looking at several methods of recovery for this shallow ore and we are considering removing the valuable gravel deposits over the ore and then removing the natural uranium ore to transport it to a mill facility. We have also identified another method wherein we can use slurry walls surrounding the ore to isolate the uranium, and through purchase of water rights, increase the water level for In-Situ Recovery (ISR) production. It will take more extensive testing before we make an application for either of these methods. There will be no tailings at the Centennial site even if there were
No. Powertech intends to mine all of the deposits with the ISR method. How will Powertech ensure safe air quality surrounding the site? At the Centennial Project, eight stationary air-monitoring stations will be set up at the boundary of the permit area to measure levels of radon and other parameters as specified by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, and to assure the public that safe levels of air quality are maintained. Two will monitor only particles less than 10 microns in diameter, and the remaining six will test all particle sizes. How will Powertech remediate the site after the ore has been depleted? Powertech will totally reclaim the site in a manner approved by the State of Colorado, such that it can be returned to its former uses. The groundwater quality will be restored to prior use, wells plugged, pipelines removed, surface re-vegetated, and any leased land returned to the landowner. What type of bonding has Powertech secured to ensure that site resto
