Exploratory work in the Edgemont uranium district in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Photo from Powertech Uranium Corp

The Atomic Safety and Licensing Board lifted a stay on a uranium mining project opposed by the Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota.

The stay was lifted after Powertech Uranium Corp disclosed that its exploratory work doesn't require Nuclear Regulatory Commission approval. The board agreed and said it wasn't likely that the drilling would harm cultural and sacred sites as the tribe argued.

The actual mining, however, can't proceed until the issue is resolved on the merits. A hearing is scheduled to take place starting August 19.

Get the Story:
Hold on Powertech’s uranium mining license lifted (the Black Hills Pioneer 5/22)

Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Decision:
In the Matter of POWERTECH USA, INC. (May 20, 2014)

Related Stories:
Oglala Sioux Tribe makes arguments in uranium mining dispute (5/14)
Oglala Sioux Tribe win stay on license for planned uranium mine (05/01)
Native Sun News: Oglala Sioux Tribe worried about sacred sites (4/29