On August 26, 1998, the Department of Energy marked the successful completion of the Uranium Mill Tailings Remedial Action (UMTRA) Project. After nearly two decades of work, the 22nd and final site—located in Maybell, Colorado—was remediated.
UMTRA was launched in response to the environmental and health risks posed by radioactive mill tailings left over from uranium mining during the Cold War. The project involved stabilizing millions of cubic yards of contaminated material, protecting groundwater, and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. This milestone represented a critical moment in U.S. environmental stewardship and nuclear legacy management—a testament to long-term investment in safe cleanup practices.
