The Moab Mill Project

This study evaluates the analyses by the Department of Energy (DOE) concerning flood flows on the Colorado River in the vicinity of the Moab Mill Project Site at Moab, Utah (former Atlas Uranium Mill), and other relevant information regarding the erosional potential of the Colorado River during an extreme flood event. Specifically, the evaluations address probable maximum floods by investigating paleoflood deposits upstream of the uranium mill tailings pile, in addition to historic river channel migration in the vicinity of the pile. Concerned citizens of Moab and Grand County understood the uranium tailings pile (12 million tons) adjacent to the Colorado River posed a serious health hazard for residents, visitors, downstream water consumers, and endangered species. In 2004 it appeared certain that the DOE would mitigate this hazardous material by stabilizing and armoring the tailings pile in place alongside the Colorado River. This research was completed money allocated during Round 6 of the Citizens’ Monitoring and Technical Assessment Fund (MTA Fund). Clark University was named conservator of these works. If you have any questions or concerns please contact us at digitalrepository@clarku.eduhttps://commons.clarku.edu/livingrivers/1000/thumbnail.jp