Mohave County faces environmental crisis from mine shutdown

In a recent government meeting, officials addressed several pressing issues affecting Mohave County, including environmental concerns, mining operations, and energy management.

Commissioner Smith opened the discussion by highlighting ongoing fires on the North Strip, emphasizing the need for vigilance in the area. The meeting then shifted focus to the Moss Mine, which has filed for bankruptcy and is set to shut down. Commissioner Smith expressed concern over the environmental impact of the mine, describing it as a \"monstrous scar\" on the landscape. He urged the commission to explore mitigation strategies and assess the financial implications for Mohave County, noting the mine's location on federal and patented lands.

Commissioner Diaz raised questions regarding the Grama Canyon uranium land grab, initiated by the Biden administration. He sought an update on the legal proceedings, specifically the lawsuit filed by the Arizona legislature, which Mohave County has joined alongside the cities of Colorado City and Fredonia. The commission agreed to look into the status of this lawsuit.

Additionally, Commissioner Martin reported on a recent visit to the UES expansion project, where he inquired about the environmental impact of new ponds and the potential effects on local wildlife. UES representatives assured him that their operations comply with environmental guidelines. They also indicated that the expansion could help stabilize electricity costs for residents by reducing the need to purchase power on the open market, although they could not confirm specific savings.

Looking ahead, Commissioner Martin requested a presentation on the Taylor Grazing Act and the Public Lands Management Act for the next meeting, recognizing their relevance to the commission's work. Commissioner Bartlett added that discussions with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) regarding a proposed wind farm have yet to yield any progress.

The meeting underscored the commission's commitment to addressing environmental issues and the economic impacts of local industries while navigating complex federal regulations.