An Analysis Of Environmental Baseline Data Programs For Uranium Tailings Storage

INTRODUCTION Public opinion, over the effect of industrial development on the environment, has required government to institute guidelines for the protection of the environment both during the development of and after the decommissioning of mines. In no other area of mining has this requirement been more consistently applied in recent times than in the development of uranium mines. Uranium mines have been a focal point because of the very real uncertainties associated with the detrimental effects of radionuclides and the possible hazards of radiation. In order to determine if there is an environmental effect caused by a development or the storage of the mine waste as tailings, it is necessary to know what the quality of the environment was prior to the production of the tailings. This is the reason for baseline data programs. It is neither technically nor economically feasible to completely define the environment in any given region. Therefore, judgement decisions must be made prior to the development as to what aspects of the environment are more likely to be affected by the presence of the tailings, and to what degree. These decisions have evolved over a period of time based on information generated from existing facilities, scientific research, and the development of strong public opinions. This process is not static, but evolves with the growth of information and the technological developments which permit greater control of industrial pollution and waste management. A well-designed baseline program will reflect changes in science, technology and public attitude, even in advance of government regulations to enforce policy changes. RATIONALE FOR PREOPERATIONAL BASELINE STUDIES There are three distinct phases to be considered in the construction of an environmental assessment for a uranium mine tailings containment facility. I. Pre-operational 2. Operational 3. Post-operational (decommissioning and long term).