Location recommendation for surface facilities for the prospective Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository

Six locations east of Yucca Mountain were evaluated for use as the site for repository surface facilities. Fourteen factors in three major categories were considered. These categories, in order of importance, were: preclosure radiological safety; environmental quality; and ease and cost of construction, operation, and closure. The evaluation factors and process closely followed the DOE siting guidelines (10 CFR Part 960). Site-specific factors also were considered. The results indicate that the location immediately east of the northern portion of Exile Hill is preferred. We suggest the location be termed the reference conceptual site for use during the Conceptual Design phase of repository development. 1 figure, 1 table