Statement

Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL), established more than 50 years ago, INEEL's had a historical mission to support development of many designs, systems, codes and safety features for nuclear power facilities around the world. It has also been a disposal site for radioactive and hazardous wastes, particularly those wastes associated with the US nuclear weapons programmes and the United States Navy's nuclear ships. There are many public concerns when a nuclear facility closure is announced.The point that I would like to make today is that such an announcement should not come as unexpected news to the local communities. Facility closure could result in facility reuse or complete dismantlement. If a facility is to be dismantled, environmental contamination must be addressed to reduce risks to humans and the environment. If it is possible to reduce contamination to acceptable levels, a wide range of land uses may be possible. If not, provisions for long term stewardship must be made. Changes in employment and funding levels, whether for a commercial power plant or a government programme. Communities need to plan for social and economic impacts that will occur. Future land use plans, with provision for local involvement in the selection of cleanup remedies and a clear understanding of environmental restrictions on land that may be released from ownership of the controlling entity. Funding for adequate closure activities, for long term monitoring, and for necessary actions in the future needs to be ensured. Security arrangements need to be anticipated and agreed upon with local entities.This is particularly important because local governments are frequently the 'first responders' to incidents on or near the facility during its operational phases; that role will continue or be expanded upon post-closure