The former Cluff Lake mine site. (Submitted photo/Orano)

By Derek Cornet

orano

Province takes control of former Cluff Lake mine site

May 2, 2024 | 5:18 PM

The provincial government has released Orano Canada Inc. from decommissioning approvals and its associated surface lease on the Cluff Lake Project’s mine.

That follows the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission’s (CNSC) Record of Decision on May 11, 2023, to revoke the mine and mill operating licence.

With the recent acceptance of a long-term monitoring and maintenance plan, and the provision of adequate funds by Orano to the Province of Saskatchewan to carry out the efforts (in perpetuity), the Cluff Lake property will be transferred into the provincial Institutional Control Program.

According to a media release issued Monday by Orano, the area has unrestricted public access with no restrictions on traditional land use. Numerous studies have concluded the area is safe and into the future for hunting, fishing, drinking water and the gathering of berries.

The Cluff Lake Mine produced more than 62 million pounds of uranium concentrate during its operation from 1979 to 2002. The operation consisted of two underground mines, four open pit mines, a tailings management facility, a mill and other support facilities.

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The Institutional Control Program allows for coordination between the provincial ministries of Environment and Energy and Resources, and provides clear direction for mining companies on what is necessary for a property to be transferred. The program also ensures that any long-term monitoring, maintenance or response to overseen events is funded by the company.

“We are proud of Orano’s 60-year legacy in our province,” said Jim Reiter, the Minister of Energy and Resources.

“Our government is pleased with the contributions they have made to our economy and global energy security. Saskatchewan is home to the highest-grade uranium in the world and has consistently ranked as one of the top global jurisdictions for mining investment.”

Orano Mining CEO Xavier Saint Martin Tillet explained the achievement of full decommissioning of the Cluff Lake site and its return to nature is something the company is proud to celebrate.

“The project shows that we, as responsible miners, have the ability and the experience to bring a uranium mining project through the entire life cycle successfully,” he said.

In celebration of the company’s past, and to demonstrate its lasting commitment to future uranium projects and the value of nuclear in Saskatchewan, Orano is also announcing three programs to support students with an interest in mining and clean energy.

Through endowments and scholarships totaling $300,000, Orano will support students at the University of Saskatchewan, Northlands College and Saskatchewan Polytechnic who show an interest and passion for mining and clean energy to build their careers in Saskatchewan.

It is anticipated the funds will support in excess of 85 separate scholarships over the next 15 to 20 years.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com