The Process
Currently in Virginia, only the exploration of uranium deposits is allowed by state law. No uranium mining can occur until the Commonwealth of Virginia allows the creation of a regulatory framework and the associated permitting process is complete. We anticipate that the regulatory and permitting process may take several years, and will likely provide many opportunities for public participation in the process.
We expect the first step in the process will be to determine whether the Commonwealth of Virginia will authorize a comprehensive study of the risks and benefits of uranium mining in Virginia. As noted in the Virginia Energy Plan issued by Governor Tim Kaine on September 12, 2007, none of the 1.6 million pounds of uranium per year needed to develop fuel for nuclear power plants in Virginia comes from Virginia. The Energy Plan added that the “potential to mine uranium is therefore strategically important and warrants careful analysis.” We concur that a careful analysis should be conducted, and we would endorse a proposal to authorize a comprehensive study.
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Ongoing on-site studies and testing provide Virginia Uranium with extensive data about the Coles Hill deposit. |
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Visits to major North American uranium mining operations enable Virginia Uranium’s management team to observe the industry’s best practices for incorporation into VUI operations. |
On November 27, 2007, the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) issued a permit to Virginia Uranium to allow the commencement of exploratory drilling on Coles Hill in Pittsylvania County. The permit allows for initial drilling of up to 40 exploration holes. This exploration will enable the company to assess the size and depths of the existing uranium deposits, research safety measures necessary for assuring water quality, and allow for other prudent due diligence and information gathering with regard to the ore deposits. This permit and process is limited only to research and does not allow for mining of any kind. The exploratory drilling is required to meet water quality protection standards and full reclamation plans for any disturbed areas.
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Virginia Uranium began exploratory drilling at Coles Hill in Pittsylvania County on December 14, 2007. |
