From Strategy to Site: The Process of Uranium Mine Remediation

Uranium mining has recently experienced a resurgence, especially in the United States, where uranium deposits are being reactivated across states such as Texas, Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Arizona. As the demand for uranium increases, so does the need for safe and responsible mining remediation, decommissioning, and license termination practices. While mining methods have evolved with the proliferation of in-situ leaching technologies, which cause far less surface disturbance and waste compared to conventional open-pit mining, the challenge of managing and remediating mining sites remains a critical focus.

ENTACT’s Expertise in Uranium Mine Remediation, Decommissioning, & License Termination

At ENTACT, we understand the complexities involved in the decommissioning and remediation of uranium mining sites. Our team of certified health physicists, safety officers, and geotechnical and civil engineers is experienced in working with contaminated sites, including those where uranium has been mined, processed, and/or stored. Whether you’re dealing with an active or abandoned site, ENTACT offers stabilization, full or partial remediation, decommissioning, and license termination services, helping you meet stringent regulatory requirements and safely return sites to beneficial use.

RADIOLOGICAL SITE CHARACTERIZATION & REMEDIAL DESIGN

Effective remediation of radiologically contaminated sites begins with a thorough and accurate understanding of the site’s contamination. ENTACT specializes in conducting detailed site characterizations to assess the full scope of radioactive contamination. Our team follows the MARSSIM (Multi-Agency Radiological Survey and Site Investigation Manual) guidance, a set of industry-standard protocols to ensure that radiological site characterization is performed consistently and effectively. ENTACT utilizes cutting-edge technologies to perform radiological surveys and mapping, enabling us to precisely locate contamination hotspots and evaluate the extent of radioactive materials on the site. Advanced tools such as gamma spectroscopy, GPS-linked survey instruments, downhole gamma logging, and drill rig sampling allow us to obtain high-resolution, georeferenced data on both surface and subsurface contamination. This allows us to create a comprehensive picture of the site, identifying areas where contamination is concentrated, as well as potential migration pathways for radioactive materials.

ENTACT also emphasizes safety and minimizing environmental disruption throughout the characterization process, deploying techniques that reduce the potential for further contamination while gathering the necessary data.

IN-SITU LEACHING & TAILINGS MANAGEMENT

In modern uranium mining, in-situ leaching has become a widely used method due to its ability to minimize surface disruption. However, the management of residual contamination remains a key challenge, particularly in areas surrounding wellheads, processing equipment, and tailings storage facilities.

One of the primary concerns with in-situ leaching is the potential for leakage around recovery wellheads and processing equipment, which can lead to contamination of the surrounding environment. As a result, ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts are necessary to ensure that any contaminants are properly contained and managed. In addition, different styles of in-situ systems may generate tailings waste, which can be stored in various forms such as ponds, pits, or tank batteries. These tailings need to be managed carefully to avoid long-term environmental risks.

ENTACT offers a range of services to address these challenges, including the remediation of contaminated soils, ponds, and other affected areas. Our team is equipped to carry out thorough decontamination of equipment, as well as provide demolition and decommissioning services for obsolete structures and facilities.

ENTACT also specializes in the construction of new, secure tailings storage areas that adhere to the highest standards of environmental safety. We employ advanced techniques, including the installation of multi-layered synthetic and clay liner and capping systems, designed to prevent leakage and ensure the long-term containment of tailings.

DECOMMISSIONING & SITE RESTORATION

When mining operations come to a close, it is crucial to restore the land to a state where it can be safely returned to productive use. ENTACT specializes in comprehensive mine decommissioning and site restoration, handling both underground and surface mining sites with care and expertise.

For underground mining operations, the first priority is securing the site in a safe storage mode. This involves sealing vent shafts and other mine openings to prevent unauthorized access and ensure the long-term safety of the surrounding environment. Typically, this is accomplished by placing steel grates over entrances and backfilling openings with dense expanding foam. These measures effectively block entry while preventing the infiltration of air, water, or debris. Special attention is paid to minimizing impacts on local wildlife, especially bat populations or other species that may inhabit the mine. ENTACT works closely with environmental agencies to coordinate shaft sealing and ensure that these sensitive species are not harmed during the decommissioning process.

The remediation phase is a critical part of the decommissioning process. During this phase, ENTACT takes comprehensive steps to mitigate any environmental risks that may have arisen during mining operations. One of the primary concerns is managing fugitive dust emissions, which can affect air quality and nearby communities. ENTACT employs a variety of dust suppression methods, such as water sprays, chemical dust suppressants, or other control measures, to minimize airborne particulates. Additionally, site runoff water is carefully managed to prevent contamination of local water sources. This is accomplished through the installation of proper drainage systems, treatment of contaminated runoff, and regular monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

In addition to environmental safety, surface restoration includes rehabilitating habitats for local wildlife. This involves restoring plant life, enhancing soil quality, and reintroducing native species to ensure the site supports biodiversity. ENTACT uses ecological restoration techniques to rebuild disturbed areas, helping to restore natural ecosystems that benefit local wildlife and surrounding communities.

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE & LICENSE TERMINATION

The regulatory landscape surrounding uranium mining is complex, with strict requirements for site closure and reclamation. ENTACT’s experienced staff offers the services needed to ensure all decommissioning and decontamination activities at former uranium mines and mills comply with federal, state, and local regulations.

Our team works with the client, regulators and other stakeholders to prepare or audit radiation protection programs, assemble decommissioning plans for the safe removal and dispose unwanted radioactive material, prepare MARSSIM compliant site closure documentation, and manage the final delicensing process to secure all necessary regulatory approvals. Our other services include on-site radiation safety and analytical services, data management compliant with the Multi-Agency Radiological Laboratory Analytical Protocols (MARLAP) manual and a mobile decontamination and decommissioning license that allows us to perform these services in any state or territory across the U.S., ensuring that our expertise is available regardless of location or site condition.

The ENTACT Advantage

ENTACT’s ability to combine expert knowledge of radiological safety, specialized equipment, and cutting-edge technologies makes us the ideal partner for companies looking to address contamination and reclaim mining sites. Our broad range of services—from emergency response to full-site decommissioning—ensures that every aspect of your site’s remediation is handled with care, precision, and compliance.

Whether you are operating an in-situ leaching mine or dealing with an abandoned mining site that requires full reclamation, ENTACT’s team has the expertise, equipment, and licenses to handle all your decontamination and decommissioning needs. Our solutions are not only safe and effective, but also cost-efficient and environmentally responsible, ensuring that your mining projects remain compliant with all regulations and minimize environmental impact.

By choosing ENTACT, you are working with a trusted leader in radiological services, dedicated to helping the uranium mining industry thrive while meeting its environmental and safety responsibilities.