Environment
LA Times series on Navajo Nation uranium mining


The Los Angeles Times wraps up its series on the devastating effects of uranium mining on the Navajo Nation.

The four-part "Blighted Homeland" series covered the history of uranium development on the reservation. Nearly 4 million tons of uranium were mined for the U.S. government during the Cold War, leaving more than 1,000 abandoned mines, many of them still contaminated, on the tri-state reservation.

The last mine closed in the 1980s. But soaring prices and increased demand have mining companies calling again in search of opportunities. Some within the tribe see jobs and revenue but others are reminded of the environmental, health and safety dangers.

The tribe has banned uranium mining. But development could occur just outside reservation boundaries, which could set up a legal battle between tribes, the federal government and mining companies.

Get the Story:
Mining firms again eyeing Navajo land (The Los Angeles Times 11/22)
pwday

Relevant Links:
Eastern Navajo Dine Against Uranium Mining - http://www.endaum.org

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