Update on the Yucca Mountain project site characterization program

As mandated by Congress in the amended Nuclear Waste Policy Act, Yucca Mountain, Nevada, is currently being studied by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to determine if it is a suitable location for the nation's first geologic repository for disposal of high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel. While the site has attributes that suggest it may be suitable, DOE must spend the next 5 to 7 yr and up to $2 billion to find out if the site would be able to isolate radioactive materials for 10,000 yr. Site characterization studies are being conducted to determine the geologic, hydrologic, and environmental characteristics of the Yucca Mountain site. Information gathered during site characterization will be used to evaluate natural barriers at Yucca Mountain and provide design and performance information for assessing the waste isolation potential of the repository system. The DOE is planning to start construction of an underground laboratory in 1990 and to implement an extensive surface-based study program. The next 5 to 7 yr of study will determine if Yucca Mountain can meet regulations for waste isolation and qualify for a U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) license for repository construction and operation. This paper discusses the progress made in 1989 and outlines the near-term plans for 1990 site characterization program (SCP) activities. It also discusses the several prerequisites for starting new site characterization activities and progress made to date in these areas