[EIA, 13 May] In 2007, production from US uranium operations increased 10% over the previous year's level, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Uranium exploration expenditure more than doubled to $50.3 million. Production came from one mill, fed by six small underground mines, and five in situ leach (ISL) operations. Total 2007 production was 1748 tonnes of uranium (2061 tonnes U3O8). In 2008, several more operations are expected to come on line and production is likely to increase substantially. With commencement of conventional ore processing this month, Denison Mines expects to produce 540 to 650 tU through its White Mesa mill in Utah in 2008, compared with only 98 tonnes U from alternative feed materials in 2007. Ore production from the Colorado Plateau and Tony M mines has been stockpiled at the mill, amounting to some 160,000 tonnes of ore awaiting milling. Up to 1500 tonnes of vanadium co-product is expected. The company is actively buying ore for treatment at White Mesa also.