Production (pounds) 1973 3,922,000 1972 4,604,000 1971 2,658,000 1970 2,317,000 1969 2,277,000 Uranium Uranium-bearing ores are mined and processed to produce uranium oxide concentrates. These concentrates are delivered to conversion facilities for the benefit of Utah's customers who have requirements for enriched uranium as an energy source for nuclear power generating stations. Utah has two uranium mines, both in Wyoming, U.S.A., with a combined production capability of 4.3 million pounds per year. 1973 production of 3.9 million pounds was close to full operational capacity. However, at the request of some receivers, Utah postponed shipments of a major portion of this production to accommodate buyers whose requirements were delayed beyond their expectations. The Lucky Mc project, consisting of an open-pit mine and mill in the Gas Hills, has operated since 1958. The Shirley Basin properties were operated as early as 1960 as an underground mine and later using solution mining techniques. In 1971 the project was completely redesigned to include a new open-pit mining operation and mill comparable in size to Lucky Mc. Until 1967, all of Utah's annual output was delivered to the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission. However, during the late 1960's a commercial market for uranium began to develop and by the end of 1970 deliveries to the Commission had stopped and were replaced by sales to private users. Yet, the private demand for uranium currently is well below the level that will be attained when nuclear power assumes a major role in satisfying the world's future energy needs. As its uses become more widely accepted and as technology improves, the value of uranium is enhanced as a potential source to fulfill much of the world's emerging energy needs. Uranium fuels, which can be transported great distances at relatively low cost, offer new opportunities to those areas of the world not endowed with fuel resources. A fleet of twenty 44-cubic yard (34-cubic meter) capacity scrapers removes overburden which overlies uranium ore at the Lucky Mc mine near Riverton, Wyoming, U.S.A. 10