A company that wants to tap a uranium deposit in Southside Virginia says a state-commissioned study clearly demonstrates the positive economic impacts of uranium mining, but an opponent says its findings are far from definitive.
The 179-page Chmura Economics & Analytics report issued Wednesday says a likely scenario of mining and milling envisions "moderate" environmental impacts, with substantial economic benefits. The report also includes scenarios that include severe or significant environmental impacts.
Virginia Uranium Inc. says the study clearly outlines "enormous" economic benefits. Project manager Patrick Wales says the study confirms what the company has said all along.
But Andrew Lester of the Roanoke River Basin Association says that while the study is thorough, it leaves too many questions unanswered.
