Moab UMTRA Project Takes Part in Regional Study to Improve Revegetation

MOAB, Utah – A swath of remediated property at EM’s Moab Uranium Mill Tailings Remedial Action (UMTRA) Project is now part of a large-scale research study to help identify better revegetation methods for the EM site and other desert areas across the southwest U.S.

Soils on the Moab Site are alkaline, salty, and fine-grained, qualities that complicate work to create a self-sustaining, native landscape requiring little to no maintenance.

The Moab Project recently partnered with ecologists from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to test revegetation techniques. The team is investigating more suitable plants and soil treatments for revegetation efforts.

The study findings will not only give insight into improving ecological conditions on the Moab Site, but the data will support land management decisions for similar areas. The work is part of the USGS RestoreNet experimental restoration network, which has more than 20 demonstration sites in several states.

“USGS is passionate about supporting our federal management partners. This joint DOE-USGS project is exciting because it allows us to explore restoration options that can work for the specific needs of this site, but also add to our RestoreNet restoration network,” USGS Research Ecologist Sasha Reed said. “This means the collaboration can help build a larger understanding of innovative management options that can successfully reclaim healthy ecosystems.”

The study on the Moab Site encompasses more than 330 plots, each measuring four square meters. The team tested diverse techniques that involved different seed mixes, microorganisms, and soil heights. Plots will receive various applications of water, fertilizers, and mulch. Staff members will monitor the plots for about two years.

Restoring disturbed areas with desirable plant species reduces dust, helps control erosion, and provides a suitable habitat for native wildlife.

“We are excited for the opportunity to continue to build our collaborative relationships with other restoration professionals in the Moab area," Moab UMTRA Project Environment Technician Luke Mattson said. "We are confident the results from these experiments will provide valuable insight into best management practices for restoring native vegetation to the Moab Site, as well as the greater restoration community.”

Moab UMTRA Project Federal Cleanup Director Russell McCallister says this effort forges a path to returning the property to its original condition.

“As the project moves closer to final closure of the Moab Site, these studies will give us a clearer picture of what the site’s landscape could ultimately look like, which will be very rewarding,” McCallister said.