The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) will begin holding virtual environment workshops for South Bruce residents in August to co-design an environmental baseline monitoring program at a potential deep geological repository site. Community input and feedback is an important input in the creation of this program as we seek to understand current stressors on the local environment.
“This is a great way to get involved in Canada’s plan, and shape a deeper understanding of the environment at a local level. Residents will have access to training programs and to actively take part in sample collection,” explained Joanne Jacyk, NWMO’s Section Manager, Environmental Assessment.
The environmental monitoring program will identify future areas of study that will be conducted around the potential repository site and the surrounding region. It will include monitoring of environmental features like water, air, soil, plants and animals.Participants will be asked questions such as: What concerns do you have about your environment? What are the existing pressures and stressors on your environment? What are the key elements of an open and trustworthy environmental monitoring program?
The environment workshops will be hosted online through a platform called Ring Central, which is accessible through their website. Virtual sessions are scheduled to take place August 10, 11 and 12. South Bruce residents can register for an upcoming workshop by contacting Mary Devine at mdevine@nwmo.ca or (416) 520-9451.
The NWMO is also considering small in-person workshops if provincial and public health restrictions allow. These will take place August 24 and 25.
The Municipality of South Bruce is one of two communities currently involved in the site selection process for a deep geological repository for Canada’s used nuclear fuel.