A state board has expanded and relocated the upcoming hearing on Clean Nuclear Energy Corp.’s plan to drill for uranium north of Edgemont. The Minerals and Environment Board voted Wednesday to hold a five‑day hearing April 13–17 in Hot Springs, rather than Pierre, after local governments and tribal members requested the change.
Clean Nuclear Energy, a subsidiary of Nexus Uranium, is seeking permission to drill up to 50 holes, each up to 700 feet deep. Intervenors say the project could threaten the region’s aquifer and downstream water supplies.
Board attorneys said the original three‑day schedule was unrealistic, with more than 30 intervenors and over 40 witnesses. The board also ruled that mining impacts may be discussed, though a Fall River County anti‑mining ordinance does not apply to the exploration permit.
If exploration is approved, the company would need a separate mining permit and second hearing to proceed.
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