Bismarck, N.D. (AP) North Dakota counties are studying ways to tax uranium even though mining may be years away.

Terry Traynor is the assistant director of the North Dakota Association of Counties. He says he was asked by county commissioners to research the idea.

Traynor says uranium deposits have been identified in six counties: Adams, Billings, Bowman, Golden Valley, Stark and Slope, he said. He says officials want to be prepared if mining starts.

He says other states have something similar to an oil extraction tax, but each formula is different.

The North Dakota Association of Counties is holding its annual convention this week in Bismarck. Traynor says he hopes county officials can discuss the issue. He says one possibility is an interim legislative study.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-12-08 1300CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list