U.S. President Donald Trump talks to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Secretary of Energy Chris Wright after he signed energy-related executive orders, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 8, 2025.
The department stated that the environmental review for the project, located in San Juan County, will be completed in just 14 days. Typically, such reviews take years due to the potential environmental impacts of uranium mining. The expedited process aims to address growing energy needs in the United States.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said: “America is facing an alarming energy emergency because of the prior administration’s climate extremist policies. President Trump and his administration are responding with speed and strength to solve this crisis.” He added: “The expedited mining project review represents exactly the kind of decisive action we need to secure our energy future.”
If approved, the Velvet-Wood mine will produce uranium, a key material for nuclear energy and other applications, as well as vanadium, used in batteries and to strengthen steel. The project is situated at the site of a former mining operation and is expected to result in only three acres of new surface disturbance, according to the Interior Department.
Anfield Energy also owns the Shootaring Canyon uranium mill in Utah, which it plans to restart. The mill will process uranium ore into concentrate suitable for nuclear fuel. The company welcomed the Interior Department’s decision, stating: “These efforts not only bring increased investor attention to the sector but will also help boost Anfield’s production prospects as one of very few companies with a near-term path to U.S. uranium production.”
The fast-tracked review reflects a broader push to strengthen domestic energy resources. By streamlining the permitting process, the Interior Department aims to support projects like Velvet-Wood, which could contribute to energy security and economic growth in the region.
