Those of us who are anticipating President Biden’s forthcoming announcement designating the Burj Nwabjo Ita Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument are not entirely surprised, but a reasonable appeal from Mojave County has apparently been ignored. I realize that I am disappointed in what was done. The Biden administration’s oversight in addressing these concerns left us with a sense of missed opportunity.
This pending designation has undeniable value in our efforts to protect our precious landscape and historic heritage. However, the legitimate reservations expressed by Mojave County specifically regarding uranium mining deserve a more thorough examination. Striking a balance between conservation and responsible resource use remains a goal worth pursuing that respects both tribal traditions and environmental concerns.
We call for a reassessment of the extent of the proposed construction of a monument spanning 1.1 million acres. Creating a more modest monument that consciously excluded Mojave County from its boundaries could help preserve important sites and protect valuable water sources. At the same time, this approach respects the interests of Mojave County and their aspirations for resource extraction.
Uranium mining has emerged as a central point of contention, with supporters of the monument seeking to halt such activity altogether. Recognizing the potential ecological impacts associated with uranium mining is essential, but outright banning the industry may not be the wisest course of action. The role of nuclear energy in the larger context of clean fuel alternatives emphasizes the strategic importance of maintaining a stable supply of uranium, especially in terms of national defense needs.
Recognizing this complex situation, we propose a thorough investigation, taking advantage of the current 20-year ban on new uranium mining near the Grand Canyon. This period provides an opportunity to comprehensively assess potential deposits and assess their environmental impacts. Our collective focus should be on developing robust strategies and responsible protocols to ensure safe mining operations when circumstances warrant reopening.
Let’s not rush to make irreversible decisions that could shape the future of future generations. A more prudent approach, such as the creation of scaled-down monuments and the introduction of safeguards against responsible uranium extraction elsewhere, could bridge the gap between conservation and sustainable resource management.
Now is the time for cooperation and compromise. It’s an opportunity to protect our energy future while preserving our natural heritage. By thoughtfully addressing these concerns, Baji Nwabjo Ita Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument can be a true triumph that benefits all involved.
