Paradoxical

Paradoxical

Re: Energy Fuels mine and mill in the West End

Paradox Valley in western Montrose County is an incredibly beautiful valley surrounded by the Uncompahgre Plateau, the San Juan and Lasalle mountains. Early farmers and ranchers settled this area to feed hungry miners, travelers and service people. Time and economies change. The demand for mined products and agricultural produce fluctuates which makes life difficult and opportunities few. This is observed and understood in places like the Paradox Valley even though the majesty in the mountains remain.

Some of the farms and ranches in the area have been passed down to fourth and fifth generations of these hardy people. They are proud of their heritage and value the luster of their environment.

Long ago, most of the private land was zoned agricultural for that was the primary use of this arid region of rocks and river valleys. Now, the opportunity knocks again and offers to enrich the economy through the establishment of a heavy industrial uranium mill. We have seen such before in Uravan and know the consequences of radiation and contamination.

The promise of jobs and money is attractive to the uncertainty of agricultural markets. But, the whims of the mineral markets, too, are uncertain as we’ve seen the closing of earlier mines and mills.

Perhaps the question should be: What heritage do the people of Montrose County and the state of Colorado want to pass on to future generations? We are a proud people who love this beautiful valley. We are seeking an improved economy, even if for a brief time, and yet we know that should this heavy industrial mill become a fixture in this valley, it may become a permanent blight and scar that will endanger people for thousands of years to come. This is the paradox of the Paradox Valley.

Dale Reed

Montrose