By TYLER GREEN
Daily Press Staff Writer
The Blue Ribbon Commission wrapped up its Eddy County visit after touring the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) East of Carlsbad Wednesday and hosting a public meeting in Carlsbad Thursday.
The Commission visited the area to assess the operations at the WIPP, where the nation’s defense-related transuranic (TRU) radioactive waste is safely stored, and to receive input from the community and various stake-holder groups. The Commission will use its findings from the visit to provide advice and make recommendations to the Secretary of Energy on issues including alternatives for the storage, processing and disposal of civilian and defense spent nuclear fuel and nuclear waste.
With New Mexico’s rich history and current position on nuclear endeavors – ranging from the Manhattan Project to uranium mining and from the operation of the WIPP to the new Urenco LES enrichment facility – the commission had a lot to cover in the meeting that lasted nearly eight hours and concluded with public comments.
– Opening remarks:
Blue Ribbon Commissioner and former New Mexico Senator Pete Domenici delivered opening remarks, stating there is no doubt the WIPP has a great deal to offer to the U.S. and it is his understanding that, as of late, the facility is even offering ideas and technology to other countries. … For the rest of the story, subscribe in print and on the web.
