AG Kris Mayes calls for new environmental impact study on uranium mines near Grand Canyon

PHOENIX — Attorney General Kris Mayes called on the federal government for a new study environmental impact study on uranium mines located along the Grand Canyon rim.

The proposed call to action stems from a University of New Mexico study that examines the possible threats to communities along the Colorado River, which includes uranium mining. Data from the research study released on March 25 reveals the risks that uranium and other contaminants pose to aquifers and groundwater management.

Mayes cited this study Thursday on KTAR News’ The Mike Broomhead Show and said the last environmental impact statement (EIS) was conducted 40 years ago.

The Pinyon Plain, also referred to as the Canyon uranium mine, began extracting ore in January 2024 in the face of protest from surrounding Native American tribes such as the Havasupai people, according to the recent study. Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences professor Karl Karlstrom said that tribes claim the federally-permitted mining is “ignoring” risks to culturally important features.

“(This mine) is only seven miles from the edge of the Grand Canyon and sits right next to the only drinking water supply of the Havasupai nation,” Mayes said. “I’ve asked the federal government to basically do a supplemental environmental impact statement.”

Mayes highlighted the UNM study’s concern that the uranium deposits could potentially puncture the Havasupai nation’s aquifer, and further groundwater connectivity could enable the same damage to the Coconino nation water supply.

She specifically said she wants the study to address outdated mining technology and run a risk assessment that includes communities in greater Flagstaff, who would also be affected by contaminated water.

“I think we can get that study done quickly and make sure the water supplies of the Havasupai are protected. Once the aquifer is breached, it’s breached. The damage is done, it’s potentially catastrophic. When you’re weighing the needs for mining, the risk is too great to not have at least studied what could happen,” Mayes said.

“I would not be calling for this if I didn’t really think it was necessary.”

Mayes said the state will see more frequent clashes between mining projects and communities, and recalled a November 2023 nuisance lawsuit she filed against Rock Supply LLC for attempting to move a mine right into the heart of Chino Valley.