Dev Randhawa on the Athabasca Basin
The Athabasca Basin has a grade average of over ten times the world average; world-leading infrastructure and technologically advanced mills; a political environment that is pro-mining and one of the most stable in the world.The Athabasca Basin in Canada has a 40+ year history of unconformity uranium discoveries and production and, with an average grade of more than ten times the world average, it’s not surprising that in 2011 the region was the source of nearly 20% of world uranium production (approx. 125 million lbs U308).
Going into more detail, the world average grade for Uranium deposits is about 0.2% U3O8 and while the grade average for the Basin is more than 2.0%. When you also consider that the Basin’s largest two deposits – Cigar Lake and McArther River – have average grades of more than 17% and 15% respectively, it’s obvious why three of the five world’s largest uranium producers are active in the Athabasca Basin.
When evaluating the Athabasca Basin you also have to bear in mind the physical and economic infrastructure. The region has benefited from massive infrastructure investment over the years. For instance, there are several high-capacity mills located in the Eastern Basin - just a few KMs from the airport and the provincial highway. In fact, the JEB mill has been reported as the most technologically advanced uranium mill in the world and the only one capable of processing high-grade uranium ore without diluting it.
There is also a highly experienced workforce that includes third generation professional miners. All of this means that the costs and time involved for both discovery and production are lower compared to regions that do not have such a mature set-up.
My final comment relates to the political environment. A stable government and uranium-mining friendly political attitude is a benefit that cannot be overstated when it comes to long-term, successful mining activity. With such an environment in place, there are low political and permitting risks associated with the region.
For Fission-related information related to the Athabasca Basin, I encourage you to view our latest corporate presentation or get in contact with us.
Dev Randhawa
