Issues at Operating Uranium Mines and Mills - Canada
(last updated 5 Jun 2013)
Site Index:
Cluff Lake (extra page) ·
Earth Sciences Calgary plant ·
Key Lake ·
McArthur River ·
McClean Lake (extra page) ·
Rabbit Lake
> See also Issues for:
New Mining Projects ·
Decommissioning Projects ·
Legislation & Regulations
> See also Data for:
Deposits, Proposed and Active Mines ·
Old Mines and Decommissioning
> See also: National Reports for Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management 
(IAEA)
Cameco saves taxes by selling its uranium through Swiss subsidiary
In 1999, Cameco set up a subsidiary, Cameco Europe Ltd., in low-tax Zug, Switzerland. Cameco then signed a 17-year deal to take the uranium it produces in Canada, sell it to Cameco Europe, and have Cameco Europe make the final sale to the end customers all across the world.
Cameco is selling the uranium to Cameco Europe at the low prices reflective of 1999, when the deal was signed. Cameco is recording little to any profit in Canada; instead, all the profits appear in Zug, where the tax rate is lower.
The uranium producer estimates it has avoided declaring CDN$ 4.9-billion in Canadian income, saving it CDN$ 1.4-billion in taxes, over the last 10 years.
(The Globe and Mail, May 1, 2013)
Cameco signs agreement to supply uranium to China
On June 24, 2010, Cameco announced it has signed an agreement with China Nuclear Energy Industry Corporation (CNEIC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), to supply approximately 23 million pounds of uranium concentrate [8,846 t U] under a long-term agreement through 2020.
"This is Cameco's first long-term uranium supply agreement with a major Chinese nuclear utility," said Jerry Grandey, Cameco's CEO.
The agreement with CNEIC is subject to Chinese government approval.
On Nov. 23, 2010, Cameco announced it has signed an agreement with China Guangdong Nuclear Power Holding Co., Ltd. (CGNPC) to supply 29 million pounds of uranium concentrate [11,154 t U] under a long-term agreement through 2025.
Canada's Cameco Corp has begun shipping uranium concentrate to China, the company said. (Reuters Mar. 13, 2013)
Cameco hopes to supply uranium to India
> View here
Two people were sent to hospital following a two-vehicle collision on the morning of June 23, 2007, at the intersection of Highway 11 and Highway 15 near Kenaston, 80 km southeast of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
After a collision with a car travelling eastbound along Highway 15, the semitrailer travelling southbound on Highway 11 left the road and drove into the ditch at the southeast corner of the intersection. The drivers of both vehicles were taken to hospital with undetermined injuries.
RCMP say the semitrailer was transporting uranium oxide, but the material did not leak from the truck.
(StarPhoenix June 25, 2007)
Cameco Corporation announced it is decreasing uranium production to reduce spending in response to continuing low uranium prices and to ensure a smooth transition to its future McArthur River and Cigar Lake mines. Total uranium production from Cameco's two existing Saskatchewan operations (Key Lake and Rabbit Lake) will decline to approximately 16 million pounds U3O8 (6154 t U) in 1999 from 26 million pounds U3O8 (10,000 t U) in 1998.
> View full Cameco news release of Nov. 24, 1998
General ·
Cluff Lake (extra page) ·
Key Lake ·
McArthur River ·
McClean Lake (extra page) ·
Rabbit Lake
> See also Issues for:
New Mining Projects ·
Decommissioning Projects ·
Legislation & Regulations
> See also Data for:
Deposits, Proposed and Active Mines ·
Old Mines and Decommissioning
Report on Socio-Economic Impacts of uranium mining in Northern Saskatchewan presented
A recent report called the Community Vitality Monitoring Partnership Process (CVMPP) suggested that "uranium mining companies should target some education efforts and donations to invest in early childhood development" in northern Saskatchewan. The recent CVMPP report was suggested by northern leaders and put together by InterGroup Consultants Ltd., a company based in Winnipeg.
Thursday (May 23) at the University of Regina, Thomas Sierzycki, mayor of La Ronge, presented the report regarding the socio-economic impacts of uranium mining in Saskatchewan.
Sierzycki said there needs to be more training and education towards the higher, non-entry level positions in order for northerners to fully benefit from the uranium mining industry.
All entry-level positions are filled by locals but the skilled and technical positions need more local employees, provided there is more training opportunities and supporting education, the report said.
Currently there are only 48 per cent of workers locally employed "ideally we want to see 67 per cent employed in the industry," said Sierzycki.
This year donations to La Ronge, from mining companies Cameco and Areva, totaled CDN$ 1.7 million. Proceeds from Cameco and Areva went to scholarships, infrastructure and other community projects.
The study also looked at worker health and determined that more needs to be done to communicate recent monitoring, inspection research finding.
(Regina Leader Post May 27, 2013)
> Download: The Socio-Economic Impacts of the 'Modern Era' of Uranium Mining on Northern Saskatchewan , prepared by InterGroup Consultants Ltd., February 2013 (5.6MB PDF)
> See extra page
> View deposit details
> View McArthur River Environmental Incidents (Cameco)
CNSC holds un-hearing on license amendment for McArthur River uranium mine
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a hearing in March to consider
Cameco Corporation's (Cameco) application to amend its Uranium Mine Operating Licence for the McArthur River Operation.
Cameco is requesting an amendment to its operating licence to reflect a change in the Province of Saskatchewan's surface lease agreement referenced in the CNSC licence.
The Commission has determined that a public hearing is not necessary to consider Cameco's request in this case. The hearing will be conducted by way of written submissions from Cameco and CNSC staff.
> Download Notice of Hearing, Mar. 23, 2012 (PDF - CNSC)
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision , March 22, 2012 (PDF - CNSC)
EIS for processing of McArthur River ore at the McClean Lake mill submitted to regulators
> See here
All-weather road project between McArthur River and Cigar Lake mine sites
> See here
Cameco requests McArthur River license amendment to allow uranium production flexibility
CNSC has announced to hold an unpublic hearing in April 2010, on Cameco's application to amend the operating licence for the McArthur River mine to allow uranium production flexibility. The requested maximum allowable annual production amount in any calendar year is 8.1 million rather than 7.2 million kilograms of uranium, while the average annual production would remain unchanged.
> Download Notice of Hearing Apr. 23, 2010 (PDF)
Environmental assessment started on receipt and processing of McArthur River ore at the McClean Lake mill
> View here
Areva considers trucking ore from McArthur River mine to keep McClean Lake mill operating
> View here
CNSC approves license renewal for McArthur River uranium mine
On Oct. 23, 2008, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a two-day public hearing (June 11 / September 17, 2008), approved the application by Cameco Corporation (Cameco) to renew its operating licence for the McArthur River uranium mine located in northern Saskatchewan. Cameco has requested a five-year licence term.
The current licence authorizes Cameco to operate a uranium mine, including the mining and processing of uranium ore; the maintenance of facilities necessary to support the mining operation; and the transport of uranium ore slurry, mineralized waste rock and low grade uranium ore to Cameco’s separately licensed Key Lake Operation.
> Download Revised Notice of Public Hearing, May 6, 2008 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript, June 11, 2008 (PDF)
> Download Cameco June 11, 2008, presentation to CNSC (12.2M PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Sep. 17, 2010 (PDF)
> View CNSC news release Oct. 23, 2008
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision (PDF)
Cameco request for production increase at McArthur River mine and Key Lake mill
> See also Cameco Regulatory Initiatives - McArthur River
Federal environmental assessment cancelled for Expansion of Key Lake Mill and McArthur River uranium mine production capacity, as a result of change in legislation
On July 6, 2012, the new Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 came into effect, changing the requirements for "low-risk" environmental assessments (EAs). As a result, the EAs underway on these projects are no longer required under the former CEA Act, and the assessment of the Expansion of Key Lake Mill and McArthur River uranium mine production capacity was cancelled.
> View EAs transitioning to Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA) (CNSC)
Cameco releases Revised Environmental Assessment Study Report for the Proposed Production Increase
On Dec. 15, 2005, Cameco released its Revised Environmental Assessment Study Report for the Proposed Production Increase at the McArthur River mine and the Key Lake mill.
> Download McArthur River Operation, Key Lake Operation: Environmental Assessment Study Report for the Proposed Production Increase - Revised, April 2005 (11M PDF)
Cameco releases Environmental Assessment Study Report for the Proposed
Production Increase
On Nov. 30, 2004, Cameco released its Environmental Assessment Study Report for the Proposed Production Increase at the McArthur River mine and the Key Lake mill.
> Download McArthur River Operation, Key Lake Operation: Environmental Assessment Study Report for the Proposed Production Increase, November 2004 (8.9M PDF)
CNSC approves EA Guidelines for McArthur River production increase
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a one-day public hearing on September 15, 2004, approved the Environmental Assessment Guidelines (EA Guidelines) for the proposed production increase at Cameco Corporation’s Key Lake and McArthur River facilities, located in northern Saskatchewan.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, June 29, 2004 (PDF)
> Download Sep. 15, 2004 Hearing Transcript (PDF)
> View CNSC release Nov. 1, 2004
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision (PDF)
CNSC invites comment on EA Guidelines for McArthur River production increase
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) invites public comment on the Environmental Assessment (EA) Guidelines concerning the Environmental Assessment of the Production Increase for Cameco Corporation's McArthur River
mine and the Key Lake mill. Cameco is seeking regulatory approval to increase annual production by about 18% to 22 million pounds U3O8 (8500 t U).
> View CNSC release June 28, 2004
> Download Project proposal December 2002 (2.9M PDF - Cameco)
> Download Draft production increase guidelines June 2004 (96k PDF - Cameco)
CNSC approves McArthur River license renewal
> See also Cameco Regulatory Initiatives - McArthur River
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a two-day public hearing (July 7 and September 15, 2004), approved the application by Cameco Corporation, for the renewal of the mining operating licence for the McArthur River Operation, located in northern Saskatchewan.
> Download CNSC Notice of Public Hearing (PDF)
> Download July 7, 2004 Updated Public Hearings Agenda (PDF)
> Download July 7, 2004 Hearing Transcript (PDF)
> Download Sep. 15, 2004 Hearing Transcript (PDF)
> View CNSC news release Oct. 25, 2004
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, Oct. 25, 2004 (PDF)
> Download Cameco presentation Licence renewal July 2004 (1.2M PDF - Cameco)
McArthur River miners exposed to higher radon levels during mine flooding
A breakdown in company procedures during the April 2003 flooding of Cameco Corp.'s McArthur River uranium mine led to about 300 underground workers being exposed to higher than usual levels of radon gas, according to a company spokesperson.
Some 295 workers were exposed to radon levels higher than the mine's historical average, and of that total 30 appear to have been exposed to radon levels three to five times greater than usual. The levels of exposure are still considered safe by Canada's nuclear watchdog.
(Saskatoon Star Phoenix Nov. 19, 2003)
McArthur River mine shut after water inflow
On April 7, 2003, Cameco suspended production at the McArthur River uranium mine due to increased water inflow in a development area of the mine. (Cameco April 7, 2003)
Cameco now anticipates production restart will be delayed four to six months based on current conditions. (Cameco April 14, 2003)
In fact, the mine resumed operation on July 2, 2003. (Cameco July 2, 2003)
McArthur River mine threatened by forest fire
On June 26, 2002, a forest fire came into close proximity of the McArthur River uranium mine site. The mine's airport was shut down, and 110 employees were evacuated to Key Lake. Approximately 60 people stayed on site to keep the plant operating and to fight the fire.
On June 27, 2002, the fire had been progressing towards the site, but it slowed down in its progress.
(CNSC meeting transcript, June 27, 2002 PDF, p. 19-20)
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) held a two-day public hearing on an application by Cameco Corporation of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan for a licence to operate the McArthur River Operation.
> Download Hearing Announcement
> Download CNSC REVISED NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING August 9, 2001 (PDF)
> Download Transcript of August 9, 2001 hearing (PDF)
> Download Transcript of October 4, 2001 hearing (PDF)
The license renewal was approved on Oct. 30, 2001.
> Download Record of Proceedings (Nov. 7, 2001) (PDF)
The proven and probable reserves of the McArthur River deposit were revised from 255.2 million lbs U3O8 at 17.33% U3O8 (98,252 t at 14.7% U) to 394.5 million lbs U3O8 at 21.18% U3O8 (151,883 tonnes U at 17.96% U). (Cameco Jan 25, 2001)
> View older McArthur River issues
Aerial view: Google Maps 
> View deposit details
> View Key Lake Environmental Incidents (Cameco)
Caribou wanders into Key Lake uranium mill tailings pond
Anti-nuclear activist Pat McNamara says concerns have been raised about the health of wildlife in Saskatchewan's north, following a report that on April 22, coincidentally Earth Day, a caribou had wandered through a fence and into a tailings pond at Cameco's Key Lake mine.
The animal spent several hours in the water and McNamara claims northern residents are worried about how the animal may have been affected.
Gord Struthers, a spokesman for Cameco, confirmed the company knew about the caribou in the water but is confident no harm would come to it.
Struthers explained that the pond does contain radioactive material and various heavy metals, but there is no danger.
"You would have to be chronically exposed to the water in that pond before you experience any health effects at all," Struthers said.
(CBC Sep. 28, 2012)
CNSC approves Scoping Document for EIS of proposed Key Lake Extension project:
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) held a hearing on August 12, 2011, to consider the proposed Project-Specific Guidelines Scoping Document for the Preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement for Cameco Corporation's Key Lake Extension
Project.
Cameco is seeking acceptance from the Commission to increase the average annual production of uranium and to increase the tailings storage capacity. The Commission considered the scope of the project and the scope of the assessment of the Key Lake Extension Project.
The hearing to consider the proposed EA Guidelines was conducted by way of written
submissions from CNSC staff and Cameco. There was no opportunity for the public to participate.
> Download Notice of Hearing Aug. 2, 2011 (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision, Aug. 12, 2011 (PDF)
Comments invited on scoping document for Key Lake expansion project:
Cameco Corporation is proposing to expand the storage capacity of the Deilmann Tailings Management Facility at Key Lake and increase the mill's throughput capacity. The project is subject to an environmental assessment under both The Environmental Assessment Act (Saskatchewan) and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act.
A draft project-specific guidelines scoping document has been prepared to assist Cameco with the environmental impact assessment.
The public is invited to comment on the document, which incorporates federal and provincial environmental assessment requirements and identifies the key issues and studies to be addressed in an environmental impact statement.
Comments should be submitted by April 2, 2011.
> View Key Lake Extension Project Environmental Assessment (CNSC)
> View Key Lake Extension Project (CEAA)
> Download Request for Public Comment - Draft Project-Specific Guidelines Scoping Document, Public Notice Feb. 25, 2011 (PDF - CEAA)
> View Key Lake Extension (Environment Saskatchewan)
> Download Draft Project-Specific Guidelines Scoping Document, Feb. 2011 (Environment Saskatchewan)
Cameco is seeking regulatory approval to increase annual production capacity of the Key Lake mill by 33% to 25 million pounds U3O8 (9,615 t U) and to increase the capacity of the Deilmann tailings management facility (DTMF).
> View Cameco website
> Download Project Description, March 2010 (3.8M PDF) · Executive Summary (157k PDF) (Cameco)
> View Key Lake Extension Project Environmental Assessment (CNSC)
CNSC approves Key Lake license amendment to allow uranium production flexibility
After holding an unpublic hearing on June 9, 2009, CNSC approved Cameco's application to amend the Uranium Mill Operating Licence for the Key Lake Operation to allow uranium production flexibility. The maximum allowable annual production amount in any calendar year is now 7.85 million rather than 7.2 million kilograms of uranium, while the average annual production remains unchanged.
> Download Notice of Hearing, May 25, 2009 (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision, June 9, 2009 (PDF)
Forest fire near Key Lake uranium mill
A large forest fire is burning in northern Saskatchewan about six kilometres away from the Key Lake operation uranium milling site.
The company is taking steps to reduce risks, Cameco spokesman Gord Struthers said.
(CBC 17 Jun 2009)
Replacement of Key Lake mill services
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) invites public comment on the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) Screening Report for the proposed Mill Services Project by Cameco Corporation (Cameco) at Key Lake, Saskatchewan.
Copies of the Draft EA Screening Report are available upon request, only.
The public comment period ends May 21, 2009.
> View Request for Public Comment on the Draft Environmental Assessment Screening Report
> Download Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) Screening Report (withheld)
> Download CNSC Notice July 8, 2009 (PDF)
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) received notice from Cameco Corporation, seeking CNSC approval to replace certain mill services at their Key Lake uranium milling operation in northern Saskatchewan.
The proposal includes the construction and operation of replacement acid, steam and oxygen plant facilities; construction and operation of ancillary facilities (replacement of storage tank farm and unloading facilities, and new covered gallery); demolition and disposal of the old plant facilities once the new ones are operational; and demolition and disposal of portions of the old ancillary facilities which are no longer required.
> View Key Lake Mill Services Project Environmental Assessment (CNSC)
CNSC approves license renewal for Key Lake uranium mill
On Oct. 23, 2008, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a two-day public hearing (June 11 / Sep. 17, 2008), approved the application by Cameco Corporation (Cameco) to renew its operating licence for the Key Lake uranium mill located in northern Saskatchewan. Cameco has requested a five-year licence term.
The current licence authorizes Cameco to operate a uranium mill and waste management systems, and the associated site facilities to support this operation.
> Download Revised Notice of Public Hearing, May 6, 2008 (PDF) (CNSC)
> Download Hearing Transcript, June 11, 2008 (PDF)
> Download Cameco June 11, 2008, presentation to CNSC (4.6M PDF)
During the June 11 hearing, it became apparent that CNSC intends to approve the license renewal for the Key Lake mill, although
- CNSC staff assigned C ratings ("below requirements") in four out of ten program areas assessed: operations (in particular waste management and fire protection), quality management, environmental protection, and training,
- the measures taken to reduce molybdenum and selenium loads in the plant's effluents are not working at all (yet?),
- the problem of pit wall sloughing in the Deilmann open-pit tailings facility (characterized by Cameco as a "world class facility for long-term tailing storage"!) remains unresolved,
- no concept exists (yet?) for the final long-term management of the tailings stored at the site.
> Download Hearing Transcript Sep. 17, 2010 (PDF)
> View CNSC news release Oct. 23, 2008
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision (PDF)
CNSC approves changes at Key Lake mill to reduce contaminant concentrations in mill effluent
On Mar. 22, 2007, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its decision to amend the operating licence for Cameco Corporation's uranium mill facility located in Key Lake, Saskatchewan. This decision was made following a one-day public hearing held on January 25, 2007 in Ottawa, Ontario. The amendment includes the addition of a licence condition requiring Cameco Corporation to implement a three-phase action plan for the control and reduction of the selenium and molybdenum releases to the environment.
> Download Notice of Hearing Dec. 4, 2006, Rev. 1 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Jan. 25, 2007 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Mar. 22, 2007
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision, Jan. 25, 2007 (PDF)
Cameco request for production increase at McArthur River mine and Key Lake mill
> see here
CNSC approves Key Lake license renewal, in spite of continuing pit sidewall sloughing into the tailings disposed in the Deilmann pit
> See also Cameco Regulatory Initiatives - Key Lake
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a two-day public hearing (July 8 and September 15, 2004), approved the application by Cameco Corporation, for the renewal of the mining operating licence for the Key Lake Operation, located in northern Saskatchewan.
The license renewal was issued, although the tailings disposal in the former Deilmann open pit suffers from periodic sloughing of the pit sidewalls. One million cubic meters of sand have already slumped into the tailings, and another half a million cubic meters potentially may follow. This sloughing not only decreases the capacity of the tailings disposal facility, it moreover distorts the performance of the facility in the long term which is based on the impermeability of the tailings. With the sand contents increased from sloughing, the permeability of the deposited tailings mass will rise and give way to increased groundwater circulation through the tailings and thus to increased contaminant mobilization. Cameco maintains, however, that preliminary calculations had shown that the permeability increase would only be minor and would not adversely impact the performance of the facility.
> Download CNSC Notice of Public Hearing (PDF)
> Download July 8, 2004 Updated Public Hearings Agenda (PDF)
> Download July 8, 2004 Hearing Transcript (PDF)
> Download Sep. 15, 2004 Hearing Transcript (PDF)
> View CNSC news release Oct. 25, 2004
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, Oct. 25, 2004 (PDF)
> Download Cameco's Licence renewal application July 2004 (2.2M PDF - Cameco)
In October 2002, Cameco submitted to CNSC a project proposal for the recycling of waste materials from the Blind River refinery and the Port Hope conversion facility (both located in Ontario) at its Key Lake uranium mill. Up to about 1500 tonnes per year of "recyclable product" with an uranium contents of 4% would be added to the normal ore feed of the mill to recover the uranium contained.
According to CNSC, the project (FEAI Number 36525) was cancelled on May 19, 2011.
> Download Cameco's Project Proposal Nov. 2002 (10MB PDF)
> Download Additional Information - Environmental Assessment Study Report (EASR) for Uranium Recycle Project, October 2004 (440k PDF)
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) held a two-day public hearing on an application by Cameco Corporation of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan for a licence to operate the Key Lake Operation.
> Download Hearing Announcement
> Download CNSC REVISED NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING August 9, 2001 (PDF)
> Download Transcript of August 9, 2001 hearing (PDF)
> Download Transcript of October 4, 2001 hearing (PDF)
The license renewal was approved on Oct. 30, 2001.
> Download Record of Proceedings (Nov. 7, 2001) (PDF)
During its November 4, 1999 meeting, the AECB approved the operating licence for the processing of ore from the McArthur River mine at the Key Lake mill and for subaqueous disposal of the resulting tailings in the Deilmann pit.
(View AECB news release Nov. 8, 1999 )
An amendment to the operating licence was approved for the Cameco Corporation’s Key Lake Mine in northern Saskatchewan. This amendment would allow for the conversion of the Deilmann In-Pit Tailings Management Facility to the subaqueous deposition method; and the construction of ore receiving and blending facilities for the future processing of McArthur River Project ore.
> View AECB News Release 98-29 of Nov. 6, 1998
> View deposit details
> View Rabbit Lake decommissioning issues
> View Rabbit Lake Environmental Incidents (Cameco)
Aerial view: Google Maps
Forest fire near Rabbit Lake uranium mill
Non-essential personnel were evacuated from the Rabbit Lake operation in northern Saskatchewan on Friday (July 27) afternoon due to forest fire activity near the site.
Site personnel were transported by bus to other mining operations in the area or to Points North Landing for air transportation to Saskatoon.
The Rabbit Lake mill is currently in a shut-down state for scheduled maintenance and capital improvements. Underground mining facilities on the site have been safely shut down and evacuated.
(Cameco July 27, 2012)
Personnel evacuated from the Rabbit Lake operation in northern Saskatchewan due to forest fire activity on the afternoon of Friday, July 27 are returning to the site to resume normal operations.
(Cameco July 28, 2012)
Uranium discharges from Rabbit Lake (highest by far in Canada) showed increase rather than the predicted decrease in 2010
In 2010, the average monthly uranium discharge concentrations of the Rabbit Lake facility exceeded the 0.1 mg/L Uranium Screening Objective during three months (Aug., Sep., Dec.), while in 2009, they had remained below the Screening Objective during all months. Moreover, the facility's total loading of uranium to the environment increased in 2010 by 15% to 390 kg.
These increases stand in contrast to the further decreases expected for 2010 in the 2009 report (see below).
> Download 2010 Annual Report on Uranium Management Activities , May 2012 (Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission)
Cameco prepares new milling arrangement to have all ore from Cigar Lake uranium mine processed at McClean Lake mill (Saskatchewan)
> View here
Federal environmental assessment cancelled for Rabbit Lake Tailings North Pit Expansion Project, as a result of change in legislation:
On July 6, 2012, the new Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 came into effect, changing the requirements for "low-risk" environmental assessments (EAs). As a result, the EAs underway on these projects are no longer required under the former CEA Act, and the assessment of the Rabbit Lake Tailings North Pit Expansion Project was cancelled.
> View EAs transitioning to Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA) (CNSC)
CNSC to hold un-hearing on proposed guidelines for Rabbit Lake Tailings North Pit Expansion Project EIS:
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a hearing in May to consider the Proposed Project-Specific Guidelines Scoping Document (Proposed Guidelines) for the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement for Cameco Corporation's (Cameco) proposed Rabbit Lake Tailings North Pit Expansion Project. Cameco intends to extend the life of the Rabbit Lake Operation by extending the tailings storage capacity from the current nine million cubic metres (Mm3) to 12 Mm3.
The Commission has determined that a public hearing is not necessary to consider the Proposed Guidelines. The hearing will be conducted by way of written submissions from CNSC staff and Cameco.
> Download Notice of Hearing, May 24, 2012 (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision
CNSC starts Environmental Assessment of Rabbit Lake Tailings North Pit Expansion Project:
Cameco is proposing to extend the life of the Rabbit Lake Operation by expanding the tailings capacity at the site from the current 9 million cubic meters (Mm3) to 12 Mm3. The proposed expansion would support milling activities at Rabbit Lake to approximately 2028 or longer.
> View Rabbit Lake Tailings North Pit Expansion Project (CNSC)
> View Rabbit Lake Tailings Management Facility Expansion (Sask. Environment)
> View Rabbit Lake Tailings Expansion (Cameco)
> Download Rabbit Lake Tailings Expansion Project Description , June 2011 (6 MB PDF - Cameco)
In spite of improvements, Rabbit Lake still Canada's uranium mine with by far the highest load of uranium discharged to the environment
The 2009 review of uranium releases at Canada's operating uranium mines and mills indicates that no facilities exceeded their Saskatchewan licence limit (2.5 mg/L) for uranium effluent discharge concentration. All facilities also achieved the optimization screening objective (OSO) of 0.1 mg/L. [Health Canada's current drinking water guideline is 0.02 mg/L.]
Results from 2009 show that of all facilities, the Rabbit Lake operation continues to discharge the highest load of uranium to the environment. Substantial reductions in effluent uranium concentrations and loadings were achieved by facility modifications and upgrades during 2007 and 2008. Throughout 2009, the average monthly concentration of uranium in effluent was consistently below the OSO of 0.1 mg/L [though only just...]. The facility's uranium loading to the environment (340 kg) was also approximately 45% lower than in 2008 (610 kg). Releases are expected to further decrease in 2010 with additional fine tuning and modification of the overall treatment process.
[The mine with the second highest uranium load discharged in 2009 is McArthur River with 20 kg.]
> Download: 2009 Annual Report on Uranium Management Activities (Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission)
Construction of new mine water treatment plant at Eagle Point mine
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has received a project description from Cameco Corporation (Cameco) to establish a new reverse osmosis (RO) mine water treatment plant and discharge system. This system will be constructed at the Eagle Point mine (Eagle Point) at Cameco's Rabbit Lake Operation to ensure adequate water handling systems are in place to permanently accommodate planned mine development and associated mine water inflow.
The CNSC has started a screening level environmental assessment on August 17, 2010.
On April 13, 2011, CNSC announced that it will hold a closed hearing in April to consider the approval of the project-specific Guidelines Scoping Document for Cameco's proposed project for the establishment of a treatment plant and discharge system at its Rabbit Lake Operation.
> View Eagle Point Water Management Project (CNSC)
> View Environmental Assessments: Eagle Point Water Management Project (Cameco)
> Download Notice of Hearing, Apr. 13, 2011 (CNSC)
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision, April 21, 2011 (CNSC)
On July 6, 2012, the new Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 came into effect, changing the requirements for "low-risk" environmental assessments (EAs). As a result, the EAs underway on these projects are no longer required under the former CEA Act, and the assessment of the Eagle Point Water Management Project was cancelled.
> View EAs transitioning to Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA) (CNSC)
Forest fires near Rabbit Lake uranium mine and mill
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) is tracking the status of forest fires in the area of Cameco Corporation's Rabbit Lake and AREVA Resources Inc.'s McClean Lake uranium mining and milling operations in Northern Saskatchewan.
There is no safety risk at the present time but Cameco and AREVA are taking precautionary measures in accordance with their emergency response plans.
(CNSC Aug. 4, 2010)
CNSC approves license renewal for Rabbit Lake uranium mine
On Oct. 23, 2008, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a two-day public hearing (June 11 / September 18, 2008), approved the application by Cameco Corporation (Cameco) to renew its operating licence for the Rabbit Lake Operation located in northern Saskatchewan. Cameco has requested a five-year licence term.
The current licence authorizes Cameco to operate an active underground uranium mine (Eagle Point Mine), three inactive and partially reclaimed and flooded open-pit mines (A-Zone, B-Zone and D-Zone Mines), a mill, various mine and mill waste management systems, and associated site facilities.
> Download Revised Notice of Public Hearing, May 12, 2008 (PDF) (CNSC)
> Download Hearing Transcript June 11, 2008 (PDF)
> Download Cameco June 11, 2008, presentation to CNSC (8.4M PDF)
> View CNSC news release 23 Oct. 2008
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision (PDF)
Seepage discovered at Rabbit Lake mill
Seepage from underneath Cameco Corp.'s Rabbit Lake mill was discovered this winter after a contract worker noticed a pool of uranium-tainted ice at an outdoor worksite adjacent to the facility.
After an investigation into the spill, the company found a solution used in processing uranium was leaking through certain areas of the mill floor and was travelling to the nearby worksite. The site is where an excavation was underway to install an addition to the area's environmental management system, said Cameco spokesman Gord Struthers.
When the leak was first found on Jan. 26, 2008, the solution had a uranium concentration of 3.2 grams per litre, he said. As of March 16, 2008, solution that had not yet been pumped back to the mill for processing had a uranium concentration of 0.27 grams per litre.
The seepage did not put workers or the environment in danger at any time, said Struthers, adding there will be no lasting damage. The mill floor has since been repaired and resealed.
(The Leader-Post Apr. 11, 2008)
Mining at Rabbit Lake slowed down due to increased water inflow
On November 28, 2007, Cameco Corporation announced that underground activities at the Eagle Point mine at the Rabbit Lake operation have been temporarily reduced as a precautionary measure.
The mine experienced an increase of water flow from a mining area at the same time as the capacity of the surface water-handling system was reduced due to an equipment upgrade. Limited mining activity will continue and the mill continues to operate with a small amount of stockpiled ore. This mine has encountered similar situations in the past and dealt with them successfully.
On January 2, 2008, Cameco Corporation announced its Rabbit Lake operation has resumed normal mining activities, after sealing off the source of the water inflow.
CNSC announces decision to proceed with consideration of the application for licence amendments related to the Rabbit Lake Solution Processing Project
Following a one day public hearing (June 11, 2008), the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced on June 19, 2008, its decision to accept the conclusions of the Screening Report for the Environmental Assessment of the Proposed Rabbit Lake Solution Processing Project (Screening Report) and to proceed with a course of action consistent with paragraph 20(1)(a) of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act; that is consideration of the applications for amendment of relevant operating licences under the provisions of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, April 11, 2008 (PDF) (CNSC)
> Download Hearing Transcript, June 11, 2008 (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision
> View CNSC release June 19, 2008
> Download Summary Record of Proceedings and Decision, June 19, 2008 (PDF)
Cameco and Areva Resources release Environmental Impact Statement for the Rabbit Lake Solution Processing project (processing of Cigar Lake uranium ore at Rabbit Lake mill)
Cameco Corporation and AREVA Resources Canada Inc. have jointly submitted a proposal to process uranium from the Cigar Lake mine at the Rabbit Lake mill.
> Download Rabbit Lake Solution Processing Project Environmental Impact Statement, January 2008 (Cameco)
CNSC invites public comment on draft guidelines for the proposed Rabbit Lake Solution Processing project
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), together with Saskatchewan Environment, invites public comment on the draft project-specific guidelines for the proposed Rabbit Lake Solution Processing project Rabbit Lake Operation, in Saskatchewan. The screening environmental assessment will be conducted pursuant to the requirements of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act.
The public comment period on the draft guidelines closes on October 14, 2005.
> View CNSC release Sep. 9, 2005
Project Proposal: Sask. Environment · Cameco
CNSC begins Environmental Assessment on processing of McClean lake uranium-rich solutions at Rabbit Lake mill
> View Environmental Assessment description (Feb. 10, 2005)
Cameco seeks approval for further processing of Cigar Lake uranium at Rabbit Lake mill
Cameco and its Cigar Lake joint venture partners are seeking regulatory approval to send approximately 12 million pounds U3O8 [4620 t U] from Cogema's McClean Lake mill to Cameco's Rabbit Lake mill for further processing. (Cameco Feb. 1, 2005)
> View: Regulatory Initiatives - Rabbit Lake (Cameco)
Effluents from the Rabbit Lake mine are causing a sharp increase in uranium loads in sediments of Wollaston Lake's Hidden Bay. While natural uranium levels in the lake sediment are below 3 µg/g, levels in Hidden Bay had reached approx. 25 µg/g in 2000, and have more than doubled each year since.
According to the Athabasca Working Group, who performed the tests during its annual environmental monitoring program, "This has been recognized by the company and they are looking into ways of reducing uranium in the effluent."
(Wollaston Lake, Athabasca Working Group Environmental Monitoring Program 2003)
Apparently, efforts in reducing the uranium in the effluent were partly successful, since 2004 and 2005 sampling showed uranium levels in the lake sediment of approx. 90 µg/g, but these values are still approx. 30 times background.
(Wollaston Lake, Athabasca Working Group Environmental Monitoring Program 2005)
In 2007 and 2008, however, the uranium levels in sediment showed a sharp rise again, easily exceeding the federal "probable effects level" (PEL), at which no harmful effects to aquatic life are expected to occur. The 2008 level of approx. 280 µg/g even exceeded the peak level observed in 2003.
In 2009, the level decreased again, but still remained above the PEL level.
> Download Wollaston Lake, Athabasca Working Group Environmental Monitoring Program 2009 (692k PDF - Areva Resources)
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CNSC approves license renewal for Rabbit Lake mine
On October 24, 2003, following a public hearing held on June 25, 2003 and September 24, 2003, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its decision to renew the uranium mine and mill operating licence for Cameco Corporation’s Rabbit Lake Operation located in northern Saskatchewan. The licence is valid until October 31, 2008.
> View CNSC News release Oct. 24, 2003
> Download Updated Meeting Agenda: June 25, 2003 · Sep. 24, 2003 (PDF)
> Download CNSC Hearing Transcript: June 25, 2003 ·
Sep. 24, 2003 (PDF)
> Download CNSC Record of Proceedings, including the Reasons for Decision (PDF)
Rabbit Lake mine restarted
On July 24, 2002, Cameco announced the restart of mining at its Rabbit Lake uranium operation. Mine production began at the operation’s Eagle Point underground mine and the mill will restart in August. Total production in 2002 is expected to be about 2.5 million pounds, ramping up to 6 million pounds on an annual basis. Existing reserves at Eagle Point will feed the mill for at least three years. In the latter half of the decade, the Rabbit Lake mill will be dedicated to process uranium from the Cigar Lake mine.
Eagle Point mine to restart in May 2002
At Rabbit Lake, progress continues toward the restart of the mine at Eagle Point. Mining operations are expected to resume in mid-May 2002. (Cameco April 29, 2002)
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) held a two-day public hearing on an application by Cameco Corporation of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan for a licence to operate the Rabbit Lake Mining Facility.
> Download Hearing Announcement
> Download CNSC REVISED NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING August 9, 2001 (PDF)
> Download Transcript of August 9, 2001 hearing (PDF)
> Download Transcript of October 4, 2001 hearing (PDF)
The license renewal was approved on Oct. 30, 2001.
> Download Record of Proceedings (Nov. 7, 2001) (PDF)
The Rabbit Lake mill will operate on existing stockpiles until they are depleted, about the end of the first quarter of 2001. At that time the mill will be placed on standby. Subject to market conditions and the receipt of regulatory approvals, Cameco anticipates restarting the Rabbit Lake mill in the first quarter of 2002, shortly after mining activities resume.
In 2001, Cameco will seek regulatory approval to reopen the Rabbit Lake operation based on the revised mining plan for the remaining approximately 20 million pounds (7700 t U) of reserves at Eagle Point. (Cameco News Release, Aug. 3. 2000)
On October 1, 1998, the Atomic Energy Control Board approved the renewal of the operating licence for the Cameco Corporation's Rabbit Lake Mine, in northern Saskatchewan, for a period of two years ending October 31, 2000. (AECB News Release 98-26 , Oct 2, 1998)
The public comment period for the proposed renewal had ended on September 10, 1998. (AECB News Release 98-21 , July 22, 1998)
Milling of available reserves will be completed in the year 2001.
> see extra page
Earth Sciences Calgary uranium recovery plant
> See also Issues for:
New Mining Projects ·
Decommissioning Projects ·
Legislation & Regulations
> See also Data for:
Deposits, Proposed and Active Mines ·
Old Mines and Decommissioning
Aerial view: Google Maps
Further extension of completion date requested for clean-up of former Earth Sciences uranium recovery plant in Calgary
Viterra Inc. is requesting the Commission for a redetermination of the Commission Order issued on November 27, 2009. This Commission Order required Viterra to perform remediation activities to lands previously leased to Earth Sciences Resources Limited. Viterra is requesting a two-year extension (to December 1, 2013) to the December 1, 2011 actual required completion date.
The public is invited to comment on Viterra's application. Requests to intervene must be filed with the Secretary of the Commission by July 21, 2011.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing Jun. 27, 2011 (CNSC)
CNSC extends completion date for clean-up of former Earth Sciences uranium recovery plant in Calgary
Following a one-day public hearing, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced on November 30, 2009, its decision to replace the order issued to WESTCO by a CNSC Designated Officer on November 19, 2007, as amended by the Commission on April 21, 2008, for the clean-up of the site located at 3077 Sheppard Place S.E., Calgary, Alberta, and to extend the date by which the clean-up of the site must be completed to December 1, 2011.
> Download CNSC Notice Sep. 29, 2009 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Nov. 6, 2009 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Nov. 30, 2009
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision
During the hearing, the question was raised how the plant could have reached that poor condition necessitating the current clean-up effort, in spite of CNSC's oversight. CNSC staff could not provide a satisfactory answer, but announced that they are now working on a strategy on financial guarantees for small licensees.
CNSC confirms order to Earth Sciences to clean up Calgary uranium recovery plant
ESIRL's uranium recovery plant became unlicensed following the expiry of ESIRL's licence on July 31, 2006.
On August 30, 2006, the Designated Officer, pursuant to her authority under paragraph 37(2)(f) of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act2 (NSCA), issued an Order to ESIRL. The Order required ESIRL to immediately comply with specific actions and measures identified in the Order, pursuant to section 41 of the NSCA. Among other actions and measures, ESIRL was ordered to complete the clean-up of the facility and submit a report to the Director General, Directorate of Nuclear Cycle and Facilities Regulation of the CNSC and provide the results of the final radiological survey conducted.
On May 16, 2007, CNSC confirmed the order, with amendments.
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, May 16, 2007 (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision - Erratum, July 9, 2007 (PDF)
CNSC renews license for Earth Sciences' idle Calgary uranium recovery plant with conditions
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a one-day public hearing on November 30, 2005, approved an application by Earth Sciences Extraction Company (ESEC) for the renewal of the licence for its uranium recovery facility located in Calgary, Alberta. The license is, however, limited to 8 months and for maintaining the facility in a secure shutdown state only.
> Download CNSC Notice of Public Hearing, Oct. 6, 2005 (PDF)
"ESEC's facility in Calgary, Alberta, recovered uranium from phosphoric acid
during the period from 1983 through 1987. Uranium oxide production was suspended
in the fall of 1987 when the adjacent fertilizer plant from which the facility
received its feedstock suspended operations. The contract under which the
uranium was sold was modified in 1990 to allow unrestricted alternative use of
the facility. Revamp of the facility to allow production of purified phosphate
products was completed in 1997. The Calgary facility routinely produced
technical grade phosphoric acid through August 1999 when operations were
suspended for lack of sufficient working capital." (from Earth Sciences, Inc.'s Annual Report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003)
> Download Hearing Transcript, Nov. 30, 2005 (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, Jan. 12, 2006 (PDF)
