Category: Conferences and Meetings

REGISTER NOW for the LLW Fall Meeting — IN-PERSON OR ONLINE — Oct 13-14, 2021

Posted on by cecysnyder@gmail.com
The Forum intends to move forward with the upcoming Fall meeting to be held in Denver. We strongly recommend attendees be vaccinated and face coverings will be provided and are recommended. We are working with the hotel to make this in-person meeting safe and enjoyable with certain precautions. We will be implementing color-coding for your in-person badge to signify your comfort level with social interactions:
  • Red means please adhere to all social distancing and mask wearing protocols when we interact.
  • Yellow means that you are mostly comfortable when we talk but please, no direct contact.
  • Green means that you are comfortable with normal social interactions.
Date and Times: The fall 2021 meeting of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) will be held October 13-14, 2021. This will be a one and one-half day meeting beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday and concluding at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday. The Executive Committee will meet from 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. on Thursday morning (October 14). The Disused Sources Working Group (DSWG) – including members, staff, organizational liaisons and invited guests will meet on Friday (October 15) from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. A virtual option is available for the main meeting on October 13-14.  Location: The meeting will be held at the Magnolia Hotel, 818 17th Street in Denver. The Magnolia Hotel Denver is in downtown Denver in the Central Business District, adjacent to the 16th Street Mall. Hotel Reservations: A dedicated block of hotel rooms has been reserved at the rate of $195 plus tax per night (single or double). This rate is available October 11-15, 2021. To make a reservation, please call 855-516-1090. (Group Code is Low Level Radioactive).  Reservations may also be made at the following website: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1586459557412&key=GRP&app=resvlink Transportation: Taxi and Uber/Lyft are available from the Denver International Airport (DIA). Taxi service charges are a flat rate of $55.15. In terms of public transportation, especially during rush hour times (7-10am; 4-7pm), consider the A line (light rail) from DIA to downtown Denver. There is a $10.50 charge each way, additional information can be found here: https://www.rtd-denver.com/services/rail. The A-line leaves from the airport every 15 minutes during the day and arrives at Union Station, which is 0.5 miles from the hotel. There is a free shuttle bus along the 16th Street Mall to explore downtown Denver and possibly assist in the last half mile from Union Station. Registration: The meeting is free for up to two attendees representing members of the LLW Forum. Non-member registration is $600.00 per attendee, payable by check or through PayPal. We prefer to see you in person, but will be offering a virtual meeting using Webex Events. Registration for the virtual meeting will be $100.00 per person, payable by check or through PayPal. The WebEx link will be provided after payment received, one link per registration. For membership information, please contact Dan Shrum, LLW Forum Executive Director at (801) 580-3201 or go to our website at www.llwforum.org. Attendees wishing to pay by credit card or PayPal should complete the online registration form below. Attendees wishing to pay by check should download the paper registration form here.

Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission Annual Meeting

Posted on by cecysnyder@gmail.com

ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE

 

The Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission will hold its annual meeting by Teams conference call at

10:00 am – 11:00 am CDT

(or an earlier adjournment if the business is completed)

(Note: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm EDT for Indiana and Ohio)

on Wednesday, June 16, 2021

The public is encouraged to attend the teleconference over a Teams link by sending an email by noon CDT June 15 to Jim Chiles, at jim.chiles@state.mn.us

 

 

Proposed agenda:

 

  1. Call to order; roll call
  2. Review of minutes of June 11, 2020, meeting
  3. Chair’s report
  4. Executive Director’s report
  5. Review of financial report
  6. Expenses projected for FY 2022
  • Audit fees for FY 2021 and FY 2022
  • Website and annual report fees
  • LLW Forum membership
  1. Adoption of FY 2022 budget
  2. Other business
  3. Adjournment

Annual Meeting To Be Held on June 11

Posted on by cecysnyder@gmail.com

ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE

 

The Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission will hold its annual meeting by telephone conference call at

10:00 am – 11:00 am CDT

(or an earlier adjournment if the business is completed)

(Note: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm EDT for Indiana and Ohio)

on Thursday, June 11, 2020

The public is encouraged to attend the teleconference.  Due to COVID-19 concerns, the meeting will be conducted entirely by teleconference.

Calling in: Toll-free dial-in number (888) 742-5095;

Conference code:  6805842054

Proposed agenda:

 

  1. Call to order; roll call
  2. Review of minutes of June 7, 2019, meeting
  3. Review of financial report
  4. Chair’s report
  5. Election of officers
  6. Executive Director’s report
  7. Consultant expenses projected for FY 2021
    • Legal counsel fees
    • Audit proposal
    • Website and annual report fees
    • LLW Forum membership
  8. Adoption of FY 2021 budget
  9. Other business
  10. Adjournment

Rocky Mountain Low-Level Radioactive Waste Board Annual Meeting on Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Posted on by cecysnyder@gmail.com

ROCKY MOUNTAIN LOW-LEVEL RADIOACTIVE WASTE BOARD
The Rocky Mountain Low-Level Radioactive Waste Board will hold a Regular Meeting on Tuesday, June 30, 2020. The meeting will be held virtually via GoToMeeting. The Regular Meeting will begin at 9:00 a.m. The Annual Meeting will begin immediately following the Regular Meeting.

For further information, contact Leonard Slosky, Executive Director of the Board, at Islosky@rmllwb.us or (303) 825-1912.
If you would rather receive an email notice of Board meetings, please contact Elaine MacDonald at board@rmllwb.us or (303) 825-1912.
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/602916557
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (872) 240-3412
Access Code: 602-916-557
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/602916557

CRCPD Announces Opening of Registration for NORM IX Symposium

Posted on by MidwestCompact

The Conference of Radiation Control Program (CRCPD) recently announced that registration for NORM IX is now open.  NORM IX will be hosted for the first time in the United States.  The symposium will be held at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Hotel in downtown Denver, Colorado from September 23-27, 2019.

Overview

During the conference, stakeholders will learn how Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) is managed around the world and discuss safety and environmental impacts from NORM, as well as best practices for NORM management.

The symposium will include presentations, posters, training and roundtable sessions from industry representatives, scientists, regulators and other stakeholders.

Special Training Sessions

The following special training sessions are currently scheduled for the NORM IX symposium:

  • “Cradle to Grave” NORM Management Workshop: This one-day, real-world course in managing NORM from identification to final disposition will address practical and logistical methods in managing NORM-contaminated equipment and waste.  It is scheduled for Sunday (September 22, 2019).  The registration fee is $350.
  • Radiation Risk Assessment Training: This full-day, advanced course focuses on specific technical and regulatory issues that Remedial Project Managers (RPMs) and On-Scene Coordinators (OSC’s) address when managing Superfund sites that have a risk-assessment conducted for radioactive contaminants.  It is scheduled for Sunday (September 22, 2019).  The is limited space available.
  • International Challenges and Solutions Related to NORM Residue and Waste Management: This special session is being organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)/ENVIRONET NORM Project.  It is focused on providing practical guidance on establishing policies and strategies to deal with NORM waste, NORM waste inventory estimation and determination of costs associated with the management practices.  Technical papers on these topics will be presented during this Tuesday afternoon session.  Working sessions of the NORM Project will also be held on Monday and Friday afternoons and are open to all who wish to attend.
  • IAEA Workshop on the Safe Management of NORM: This session will provide information on relevant safety standards applicable to industrial activities involving NORM and present key safety issues in terms of policy, regulatory and operational aspects.  It is scheduled for Wednesday (September 25, 2019).  Limited space is available.
  • CRCPD Workshop – Radiation Protection in NORM Industries: Join CRCPD, state, local, national and international organizations to identify priority issues related to the handling and disposal of TENORM generated during some industrial processes.  Discuss measures that can be taken to improve protection of workers and members of the public.  This workshop is scheduled for Wednesday (September 25, 2019).

Interested stakeholders may view the conference announcement at https://gallery.mailchimp.com/97f7d5fba6ef7315cda63c8f0/files/8fd32a0c-36cd-4b5f-b456-c14f74aededc/NORM_IX_flyer_v3.pdf. 

The preliminary conference agenda is available at https://gallery.mailchimp.com/97f7d5fba6ef7315cda63c8f0/files/7dcac048-2f9b-4c0d-a231-05dc2ebcd2c3/NORMIX_agenda9.pdf. 

Registration is available at www.crcpd.org/NORMIX. 

For additional information, please send an e-mail inquiry to normix@crcpd.org

NRC to Conduct Public Webinar on July 16 to Discuss Three Mile Island 1 Nuclear Power Plant Decommissioning Topics

Posted on by cecysnyder@gmail.com

Contact: Diane Screnci, 610-337-5330 Neil Sheehan, 610-337-5331

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission staff will present a webinar for interested members of the public on July 16 regarding the decommissioning of the Three Mile Island 1 nuclear power plant, located in Londonderry, Pa.

The purpose of the webinar is to provide key facts about the decommissioning process and how the NRC regulates such activities through on-site inspections and other reviews.

The webinar will begin at 1 p.m. Participants will be able to view slides prepared by NRC staff and ask questions in writing via a web page set up to host the session. Online registration is required to take part.

The NRC will also hold a public meeting in Hershey, Pa., on July 23 to discuss and accept public comments on Exelon’s Post-Shutdown Decommissioning Activities Report for Three Mile Island 1, which calls for placing the plant into long-term storage before dismantlement and decontamination work takes place. A copy of the report can be found on the NRC website.

Three Mile Island 1 is scheduled to permanently cease operations by Sept. 30, 2019.

The adjacent Three Mile Island 2 plant did not return to service following the March 1979 accident. It has a different owner and a PSDAR for that unit was submitted to the NRC in June 2013.

Midwest Interstate Compact Commission Holds Annual Meeting

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On June 7, 2019, the Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission held its annual meeting by telephone conference call from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. CDT.  Due to time zone adjustments, the call was held from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EDT for participants in Indiana and Ohio.

The following is the final agenda for the annual meeting of the Midwest Interstate Compact Commission:

  • call to order and roll call;
  • review of minutes of June 11, 2018 meeting;
  • review of financial report;
  • report from Acting Chair;
  • election of Officers;
  • report from Executive Director;
  • Consultant expenses projected for FY 2020;

–     legal counsel fees;

–     audit proposal;

–     website and annual report fees;

–     Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) membership;

  • adoption of Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 budget;
  • other business; and,
  • adjournment.

For additional information, please contact James Chiles, Executive Director of the Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission, at (651) 757-2272 or at Jim.Chiles@state.mn.us or go to https://midwestcompact.org/news/.

Texas Compact Commission Holds May 2019 Meeting

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On May 30, 2019, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (Texas Compact Commission) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Waco, Texas.  The meeting began at 9:00 a.m.  It was held in the Cooper Room at the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce, which is located at 101 S 3rd Street, Waco, Texas 76701.  There was no live feed provided for the meeting; however, a video of the meeting will be posted to the Texas Compact Commission website once available.

The formal meeting agenda is available on the Texas Compact Commission’s web site at www.tllrwdcc.org. 

Agenda

The following is an abbreviated overview of the agenda for the Texas Compact Commission meeting.  Persons interested in additional detail are directed to the formal agenda themselves.

  • call to order;
  • roll call and determination of quorum;
  • introduction of Commissioners, elected officials and press;
  • moment of recognition for Jim Crowson;
  • public comment;
  • report from Deidre Delisi, Governmental Relations Representative, on her activities including a report on the 2019 Texas Legislative Session;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications for importation of low-level radioactive waste from Exelon Generation, Thomas Gray and Associates, Qal-Tek Associates and Ameren Missouri;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications for exportation of low-level radioactive waste from Bionomics;
  • receive reports from Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) about compact facility capacity, recent site operations and any other matter WCS wishes to bring to the attention of the Compact Commission;
  • discussion and possible action regarding the proposal for publication for public comment related to the amendment of 31 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) 675.20 concerning the definition of “small quantity generator and new rule 31 TAC 375.25 – Capacity Reservation for Small Quantity Generators;
  • consideration, evaluation and possible action with respect to the Texas Compact Commission credit card usage policies and limitations on the use of the credit card;
  • receive report from Chair on Texas Compact Commission activities including reporting on fiscal matters to be taken by the compact, electronic signature policy for the Texas Compact Commission and addressing personnel matters;
  • report from Leigh Ing, Executive Director of the Texas Compact Commission, on her activities and questions relating to Texas Compact Commission operations including work with the Southwestern Compact Executive Director in follow-up to the February 28, 2019 Texas Compact Commission meeting;
  • discussion and possible changes of dates and locations of future Texas Compact Commission meetings in 2019 and 2020;
  • discussion and possible action regarding the strategic direction of the Texas Compact Commission and associated fiscal and legal matters including staffing resources that may be needed to implement the strategic direction of the Commission;
  • discussion and possible action relating to staff contract renewal and personnel reviews for Leigh Ing, Andrew Tachovsky, Deidre Delisi and Diane Fulmer; and,
  • adjourn.

Background

The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code.  Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

Midwest Compact Annual Meeting Notice

Posted on by MidwestCompact

ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE

The Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission will hold its annual meeting by telephone conference call at 10:00 am – 11:30 am CDT (or an earlier adjournment if the business is completed)
(Note: 11:00 am – 12:30 pm EDT for Indiana and Ohio)
on Friday, June 7, 2019
The public is encouraged to attend.  See the list of sites below.
Calling in: Toll-free dial-in number (888) 742-5095;
Conference code:  6805842054

 

Proposed agenda:

  1. Call to order; roll call
  2. Review of minutes of June 11, 2018, meeting
  3. Review of financial report
  4. Acting Chair’s report
  5. Election of officers
  6. Executive Director’s report
  7. Consultant expenses projected for FY 2020
    • Legal counsel fees
    • Audit proposal
    • Website and annual report fees
    • LLW Forum membership
  8. Adoption of FY 2020 budget
  9. Other business
  10. Adjournment

The sites are as follows:

In Iowa: Fifth Floor West Conference Room, IA Department of Natural Resources, Wallace State Office Building, 502 East 9 th Street, Des Moines. For information about the site and handicap access, call Iowa DNR Customer Service at 515.725.8200.

In Minnesota: Conference Room 401, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, 520 Lafayette Road North, St. Paul 55155. For information about the site and handicap access, call 651.757.2138.  For directions, see map at www.pca.state.mn.us.

In Ohio: Ohio Department of Health, 246 N. High Street, Columbus, OH.  For information about the site and handicap access, call 614.644.2727.

In Wisconsin: Dept. of Health Services, 1 W. Wilson St., Rm 139 (CR 139), Madison, WI  53702.  For information about the site and handicap access, call Susan Hagstrom at 608.267.4797

Public Meeting re Pilgrim Decommissioning Activities Report

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On January 15, 2019, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) staff held a public meeting in Plymouth, Massachusetts to discuss a decommissioning roadmap report for the Pilgrim nuclear power plant.  Attendees were able to provide comments at the meeting.

Entergy, which owns the single-reactor Plymouth facility, submitted its Pilgrim Post-Shutdown Decommissioning Activities Report (PSDAR) to the NRC on November 16, 2018.  Among other details, it describes the company’s plans to put the plant into SAFSTOR, or long-term storage, prior to beginning dismantlement work.

Holtec, which plans to acquire Pilgrim and decommission it in an expedited manner, has submitted its own PSDAR for the plant.  Since an application to transfer the plant’s NRC license from Entergy to Holtec remains under review, the report is currently being handled as a supplement to the application.

Pilgrim is scheduled to permanently cease operations by June 1, 2019.

Overview

On November 16, 2018, Entergy Corporation and Holtec International, through their affiliates, asked the NRC to approve the sale of the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station to Holtec after shutdown.  According to the associated press release, doing so would allow Holtec to complete decommissioning and site restoration decades sooner than if Entergy completed decommissioning.

The companies jointly filed a License Transfer Application, requesting approval for the transfer of the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station, as well as its Nuclear Decommissioning Trust Fund, to Holtec after the plant permanently shuts down by June 1, 2019.  They also made detailed separate filings that lay out the process each company would use to decommission the facility.

In order to facilitate a timely transaction closing by the end of 2019, the companies have asked the NRC to approve the application by May 31, 2019.  According to the press release, doing so will benefit the community, employees and other interested constituents.

Holtec’s filings describe the plan of its subsidiary, Holtec Decommissioning International, to complete the dismantling, decontamination and remediation of Pilgrim to NRC standards within eight years of license transfer (i.e., by the end of 2027) assuming timely regulatory approvals.  According to the press release, Holtec’s process will achieve site restoration decades sooner than if Entergy retained the plant while meeting all applicable local, state and federal regulations.

Holtec estimates total costs for decommissioning Pilgrim at $1.13 billion.  As of October 31, 2018, the balance in Pilgrim’s Decommissioning Trust Fund was $1.05 billion.

“Holtec’s technical expertise, innovations and industry-leading experience in spent fuel management and decommissioning enable it to do the work in a more cost-effective manner, with uncompromised safety and under rigorous NRC oversight,” states the press release.  “Over 100 nuclear plants rely on Holtec’s nuclear fuel storage technology, and the company is the world leader in spent nuclear fuel storage technology design and implementation.”

Holtec has contracted with Comprehensive Decommissioning International, LLC (CDI) to perform the decommissioning, including demolition and site cleanup.  CDI is a joint venture company of Holtec International and SNC-Lavalin.  According to the press release, “The decommissioning experience held by Holtec and SNC-Lavalin gives CDI more than half a century of managing complex projects in both the commercial and government nuclear sectors worldwide.”

Background

The Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station employs about 600 nuclear professionals and generates 680 megawatts of virtually carbon-free electricity, enough to power more than 600,000 homes.  Pilgrim began generating electricity in 1972.  Entergy purchased the plant in 1999 from Boston Edison.

Entergy Corporation is an integrated energy company engaged primarily in electric power production and retail distribution operations.  Entergy owns and operates power plants with approximately 30,000 megawatts of electric generating capacity, including nearly 9,000 megawatts of nuclear power.  Entergy delivers electricity to 2.9 million utility customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.  Entergy has annual revenues of approximately $11 billion and more than 13,000 employees.

Holtec International is a privately held energy technology company with operation centers in Florida, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania in the United States.  Globally, Holtec International has operation centers in Brazil, Dubai, India, South Africa, Spain, the United Kingdom and Ukraine.  Holtec’s principal business concentration is in the nuclear power industry.  Since the 1980s, Holtec has been densifying wet storage in nuclear plants’ spent fuel pools, which defers the need for and expense of alternative measures by as much as two decades.  Holtec has done this at over 110 reactor units in the United States and abroad.  Holtec also offers services regarding dry storage and transport of nuclear fuel.  Holtec is working to develop the world’s first below-ground CISF in New Mexico and a 160-Megawatt walk away safe small modular reactor, SMR-160.  The SMR-160 is developed to bring cost competitive carbon-free energy to all corners of the earth including water-challenged regions.  Holtec is also a major supplier of special-purpose pressure vessels and critical-service heat exchange equipment such as air-cooled condensers, steam generators, feedwater heaters and water-cooled condensers.  Virtually all products produced by Holtec are built in its three large manufacturing plants in the United States and one in India.

For additional information about the Pilgrim plant, please go to www.pilgrimpower.com.  Additional information about Entergy is available at www.entergy.com.  To learn more about Holtec International, please visit www.holtecinternational.com.  

The Pilgrim PSDAR that was submitted by Entergy is available on the NRC website at https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML1832/ML18320A034.pdf.  The PSDAR that was submitted by Holtec is also available at https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML1832/ML18320A040.pdf.  The Federal Register notice regarding the submittal of public comments on the Pilgrim PDSAR is available at https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2018-12-21/pdf/2018-27724.pdf.

For additional information, please contact Diane Screnci at (610) 337-5330 or Neil Sheehan at (610) 337-5331.

Central Interstate Compact Commission Holds Teleconference Meeting

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On February 12, 2019, the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission held a special meeting.  The meeting — which was held by teleconference — began at 10:00 a.m. CDT.

The purpose of the meeting is for the approval of minutes of the June 19, 2018 annual meeting; approval of the fiscal year 2017-2018 audit done by Cochran, Head, Vick & Company; vote regarding the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) hosting the Commission’s web page; and, all other business to come before the Commission.

The following items were on the draft agenda for the meeting:

  1. Call to Order and Roll Call (Chair)
  1. Identify Members of the Public on Conference Line
  1. Introduce New Commissioner from Oklahoma, Kelly Dixon
  1. Approval of Minutes of the June 19, 2018 Annual Meeting
    1. Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
    2. Questions/Discussion by Public
    3. Roll Call Vote
  2. Approval of Cochran, Head, Vick & Company Audit for Fiscal Years 2017-2018
    1. Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
    2. Questions/Discussion by Public
    3. Roll Call Vote
  3. Vote Regarding LLW Forum Hosting Commission’s Web Page

At the June 2018 Annual Meeting, Cecilia Snyder of the LLW Forum presented information about the LLW Forum’s proposal to develop and host the Commission’s website.

  1. Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
  2. Questions/Discussion by Public
  3. Roll Call Vote
  4. Adjourn

Pursuant to Article IX(H)(3) of the Commission’s Bylaws, this Public Forum was an opportunity for members of the public to address the Commission on any matter under the Commission’s jurisdiction.

For additional information, please contact Kristie Valtierra, Administrator of the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission, at (402) 702-5220 or at admin@cillrwcc.org or visit their web site at www.cillrwcc.org.

Southwestern Compact Commission Hosts 80th Meeting

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On November 14, 2018, the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission hosted its 80th meeting via teleconference beginning at 1:00 p.m. PDT.

The following topics, among others, were on the meeting agenda:

  • call to order;
  • roll call;
  • welcome and introductions;
  • statement regarding due notice of meeting;
  • election of Officers for Year 2019;
  • public comment;
  • future agenda items;
  • next meeting — under review; and,
  • adjournment.

Members of the public were invited to attend the meeting and comment on specific agenda items as the Commission considered them.  The total public comment time on each agenda item was limited to 15 minutes.  Written material was also accepted.  A 15-minute public comment period was provided near the end of the meeting at which time members of the public were invited to bring before the Commission issues relating to low-level radioactive waste but which were not on the agenda.

For additional information, please contact Kathy Davis, Executive Director of the Southwestern Compact Commission, at (916) 448-2390 or at swllrwcc@swllrwcc.org.

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Meets

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On November 8, 2018, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held an electronic meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The meeting, which was open to the public, was held in Conference Room 1015, Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Board Room, in the Multi Agency State Office Building that is located at 195 North 1950 West in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Agenda

The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the November 8, 2018 Board meeting:

  1. Call to Order
  1. Public Comment

III.    Declarations of Conflict of Interest

  1. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the October 11, 2018 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)
  1. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the October 25, 2018 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)
  1. Underground Storage Tanks Update

VII.   Administrative Rules

  1. Approval of final adoption of proposed changes to Solid Waste Rules R315-301, to add a new subsection (R315-301-7) to establish self-inspection requirements in accordance with Section 19-6-109 of the Solid and Hazardous Waste Act (Board Action Item)

VIII.  Other Business

  1. Miscellaneous Information Items
  1. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting
  1. Adjourn

Background

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.

The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/utah-waste-management-radiation-control-board-meetings.htm.

 

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Utah Considers Request for Mass and Concentration Limitations Exemption

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On October 25, 2018, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a meeting beginning at 11:00 a.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The purpose of the meeting was to address a request from EnergySolutions for an exemption from R313-25-9(5) of the Utah Administrative Code regarding mass and concentration limits.

The materials for a special Board meeting on this topic that was held on August 30, 2018, including the EnergySolutions’ letter with detailed background information and an explanation of the basis for the requested exemption, can be viewed online at https://www.utah.gov/pmn/files/423003.pdf#page=2.

Overview

By letter dated August 24, 2018, EnergySolutions petitioned the Board for an exemption from the mass and concentration limitations of UAC R313-25-9(5)(a) and (c) in connection with the disposal of Class A depleted uranium solid metal penetrators (DU Penetrators).

UAC R313-12-55(1) allows the Board to “grant exemptions or exceptions from the requirements of the rules as it determines are authorized by law and will not result in undue hazard to public health and safety or the environment,” according to the EnergySolutions’ letter.  “Solid metal depleted uranium penetrators are less hazardous and less plentiful than the depleted uranium oxides which are the basis of the UAC R313-25-9(5) restriction and an exemption is warranted in accordance with the justification herein provided,” states EnergySolutions in its letter.

As further explanation, the EnergySolutions’ letter states as follows:

The U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command (JMC), working under the direction of the Product Director for Demilitarization, is responsible for the safe and compliant disposition of munitions waste.  The JMC seeks to transport and dispose of 30 mm munitions containing solid depleted uranium metal.  The DU Penetrators will be disassembled to remove the depleted uranium metal prior to packaging for transport and disposal.  The JMC plans to disassemble between 3.5 to 7 million penetrators each year, currently in storage at the Tooele Army Depot (Tooele, Utah) and Crane Army Ammunition Activity (Crane, Indiana).  The JMC expects to transport and dispose of approximately 667 yd3 of DU Penetrator Class A waste per year for up to 4 years (a projected DU Penetrator disposal volume of 2,668 yd3).  Disposal of this volume of class A depleted uranium metal will exceed the limitations promulgated in UAC R313-25-9(a).

On August 30, 2018, the Board held an emergency meeting to review EnergySolutions’ request for an exemption from R313-25-9(5) of the Utah Administrative Code regarding mass and concentration limits.  (See LLW Notes, July/August 2018, pp. 8-9.)

Background

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.  The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/utah-waste-management-radiation-control-board-meetings.htm. 

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Meets

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On October 11, 2018, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board (Board) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The meeting was open to the public.

The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the Board meeting:

  1. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the September 13, 2018 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)
  1. Procedures for Public Comment

III.    Conflict of Interest

  1. Underground Storage Tanks Update
  1. 2018 PST Trust Fund Actuarial Report
  1. Administrative Rules
  1. Approval to proceed with formal rulemaking and public comment on proposed changes to Hazardous Waste Rules UAC R315-273, Standards for Universal Waste Management (Board Action Item)
  1. Approval to proceed with formal rulemaking and public comment on proposed changes to Radiation Control Rules UAC R313-28, Use of X-Rays in the Healing Arts (Board Action Item)

VII.   Break

VIII.  Low-Level Radioactive Waste Section

  1. Presentation on R313-25-9(5)(a) (Informational Item Only)
  1. Public Comment
  1. Other Business
  1. Miscellaneous Information Items
  1. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting
  1. Adjourn

The Board — which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate — guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.  The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.  

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Texas Compact Commission Holds October 2018 Meeting

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On October 11, 2018, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (Texas Compact Commission) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Manchester, Vermont.  Interested stakeholders were able to participate on the campus of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) in Austin, Texas.  No member of the Commission was present at the Austin location.

The following items were on the agenda for the Texas Compact Commission meeting:

  • call to order;
  • roll call and determination of quorum;
  • introduction of Commissioners, elected officials and press;
  • public comment;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications for importation of low-level radioactive waste from Duke Brunswick, Dale Brunswick IH, Exelon, Southern Nuclear Company – Vogtle, Arizona Public Service, Tennessee Valley Authority and Tennessee Valley Authority IH;
  • consideration of and possible action on an application for exportation of low-level radioactive waste from UT HSC – Ameriphysics;
  • consideration of and possible action on amendments to an existing agreement with Entergy Grand Gulf;
  • receive reports from Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) about recent site operations and any other matter WCS wishes to bring to the attention of the Compact Commission;
  • report from Commissioner Morris, Chair on 31 TAC §675.24 relating to Requirement to Report on the Importation of Certain Low-Level Radioactive Waste for Management or Disposal that is not Required to be Disposed of in the Compact Facility;
  • discussion and possible action on the adoption of an amendment or amendments to the Commission’s Bylaws authorizing the reimbursement of members of the Commission and staff for reasonable and appropriate gratuities with limitations and guidelines for such reimbursements;
  • discussion and possible action relating to long term planning and actions of the Commission relating to fiscal matters, staff roles, public reporting concerning low-level radioactive waste imported in to the compact states and methods and requirements for such data collection;
  • discussion of a Contingency Plan for the Compact Facility;
  • receive report from Chair on Texas Compact Commission activities including an update on fiscal matters to be taken by the compact, H.B. 2662 Legislative Committee meeting and addressing personnel matters;
  • report from Leigh Ing, Executive Director of the Texas Compact Commission, on her activities relating to Texas Compact Commission operations including change in office location, industry conferences and Texas Compact Commission Annual Report;
  • discussion and possible changes of dates and locations of future Texas Compact Commission meetings in 2018 and 2019; and,
  • adjourn.

 

The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code.  Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

Southwestern Compact Commission Hosts 79th Meeting

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On October 5, 2018, the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission hosted its 79th meeting beginning in Sacramento, California.

The following topics, among others, were on the meeting agenda:

  • call to order — moment of silence in honor of former Chair Aubrey Godwin;
  • roll call;
  • welcome and introductions;
  • statement regarding due notice of meeting;
  • reports, status and/or activity;
    • Commission Chair;
    • Executive Director;
    • licensing agency;
    • license designee; and,
    • party states;
  • updates of decommissioning — San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS);
  • exportation actions and reports;
    • ratification of approved petitions E18-104-135 and WCS18-044-085;
    • amend “Policy of the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission Regarding Exportation of Various Low-Level Radioactive Waste Streams” to extend effective date;
    • amend “Requirements for Exportation Petitions for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal” to extend effective date; and,
    • approve new petitions forms and dates;
  • update and action on Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) and Commissioners report on activities;
  • review, discuss and action regarding transition of legal counsel, bylaws, current forms, resolutions and agreements;
  • legal review, action for Commissioner appointments;
  • financial audit report by Miers & Miers;
  • Executive Session pursuant to CA Gov. Code §11126(a)(1) to discuss staff performance evaluations;
  • review and approve Counsel’s contracts;
  • Annual Governor’s Report review and approve;
  • discuss and amend potential changes to fiscal year 2018-19 budget;
  • approve fiscal year 2019-20 budget;
  • adopt fee schedule – discussion/action;
  • public comment;
  • election of officers;
  • future agenda items;
  • next meeting – potential tour of Waste Control Specialists (WCS); and,
  • adjournment.

 

Members of the public were invited to attend the meeting and comment on specific agenda items as the Commission considered them.  The total public comment time on each agenda item was limited to 15 minutes.  Written material was also accepted.  A 15-minute public comment period was provided near the end of the meeting at which time members of the public were invited to bring before the Commission issues relating to low-level radioactive waste but which were not on the agenda.

For additional information, please contact Kathy Davis, Executive Director of the Southwestern Compact Commission, at (916) 448-2390 or at swllrwcc@swllrwcc.org.

EnergySolutions Requests Exemption from Mass and Concentration Limitations

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On August 30, 2018, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held an emergency meeting beginning at 10:00 a.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The purpose of the meeting was to review a request from EnergySolutions for an exemption from R313-25-9(5) of the Utah Administrative Code regarding mass and concentration limits.

The materials for the emergency Board meeting, including the EnergySolutions’ letter, which contains detailed background information and an explanation of the basis for the requested exemption, can be viewed online at https://www.utah.gov/pmn/files/423003.pdf#page=2.

Overview

By letter dated August 24, 2018, EnergySolutions petitioned the Board for an exemption from the mass and concentration limitations of UAC R313-25-9(5)(a) and (c) in connection with the disposal of Class A depleted uranium solid metal penetrators (DU Penetrators).

UAC R313-12-55(1) allows the Board to “grant exemptions or exceptions from the requirements of the rules as it determines are authorized by law and will not result in undue hazard to public health and safety or the environment,” according to the EnergySolutions’ letter.  “Solid metal depleted uranium penetrators are less hazardous and less plentiful than the depleted uranium oxides which are the basis of the UAC R313-25-9(5) restriction and an exemption is warranted in accordance with the justification herein provided,” states EnergySolutions in its letter.

“The U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command (JMC), working under the direction of the Product Director for Demilitarization, is responsible for the safe and compliant disposition of munitions waste,” states EnergySolutions’ letter.  “The JMC seeks to transport and dispose of 30 mm munitions containing solid depleted uranium metal.  The DU Penetrators will be disassembled to remove the depleted uranium metal prior to packaging for transport and disposal.  The JMC plans to disassemble between 3.5 to 7 million penetrators each year, currently in storage at the Tooele Army Depot (Tooele, Utah) and Crane Army Ammunition Activity (Crane, Indiana).  The JMC expects to transport and dispose of approximately 667 yd3 of DU Penetrator Class A waste per year for up to 4 years (a projected DU Penetrator disposal volume of 2,668 yd3).  Disposal of this volume of class A depleted uranium metal will exceed the limitations promulgated in UAC R313-25-9(a).”

Background

The Board — which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate — guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.  The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.  

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Central Midwest Compact Commission Holds Annual Meeting

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On September 18, 2018, the Central Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission (CMCC) held its annual meeting at the Radiation Health Branch in Frankfort, Kentucky.

The following items were on the draft agenda for the Commission meeting: 

  • Call to Order
  • Adoption or Modification of the Agenda
  • Election of Officers
    • Chair
    • Secretary/Treasurer
  • Adoption of Minutes from the Previous Meeting
    • April 23, 2018
  • Executive Session
  • First Public Comment Period
  • Reports
    • Chairman & Host State Report
    • Kentucky Commissioner Report
    • Executive Assistant Report
  • Acceptance of Auditor’s Report
  • Adoption of Fiscal Year Budget
  • Review of Fiscal Year 18 Annual Report
  • Investment Review
  • Other Business
    • Unfinished Business – review costs associated with hosting the LLW Forum 2019 fall meeting
    • New Business
  • Second Public Comment Period
  • Next Scheduled Meeting or Announcement of Special Meeting
  • Adjournment

Interested stakeholders were able to participate via videoconference at locations in both Kentucky and Illinois, as well as by teleconference.

For additional information, please contact Joseph Klinger, Chairman of the Central Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission, at (217) 836-3018 or go to http://www.cmcompact.org.

Governor Appoints Salsman and Edwards To Texas Compact Commission

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On August 24, 2018, it was announced that Texas Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed John Salsman and appointed Lisa Edwards to the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission for terms to expire on September 1, 2023.  The Texas Compact Commission manages the disposition of low-level radioactive waste, while maintaining the health, safety and welfare of citizens.

Appointments

John Salsman is the Director of the Environmental Health and Safety Department at the University of Texas at Austin.  He is a member of the Health Physics Society (HPS) and the American Academy of Health Physics.  Salsman received a Bachelor of Science in radiation protection engineering and a Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering from Texas A&M University.  He lives in of Driftwood, Texas.

Lisa Edwards is a Senior Program Manager of Chemistry, Radiation Safety, and High-Level Radioactive Waste at the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).  Edwards received a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from Cornell College.  She lives in Granbury, Texas.

Background

The Texas Compact Commission meets several times per year in both Texas and Vermont.  The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code.  Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

The Texas Compact Commission is next scheduled to meet in Manchester, Vermont on October 11, 2018.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Meets

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On September 13, 2018, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board (Board) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The meeting was open to the public.

The following items, among others, was on the agenda for the Board meeting:

  1. Call to Order
  1. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the July 12, 2018 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)

III.    Approval of Meeting Minutes for the August 30, 2018 special Board Meeting (Board Action Item)

  1. Presentation by Attorney General’s Office on Conflict of Interest
  1. Underground Storage Tanks Update
  1. Administrative Rules
  1. Approval of final adoption of proposed changes to the Used Oil Rules R315-15-16, Grants, to provide additional clarity and more detailed direction regarding the grant application, grant issuance, implementation and reimbursement processes (Board Action Item)
  1. Approval of final adoption of proposed changes to the Hazardous Waste Rules R315-260, Hazardous Waste Management System, and R315-261, General Requirements – Identification and Listing of Hazardous Waste, to incorporate federal regulatory changes promulgated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and published in the Federal Register on May 30, 2018 at 83 Federal Register 24,664 (Board Action Item)
  1. Approval to proceed with formal rulemaking and public comment on proposed changes to Solid Waste Rules R315-301 to add a new sub-section (R315-301-7) to establish self-inspection requirements in accordance with Section 19-6-109 of the Solid and Hazardous Waste Act (Board Action Item)

VII.   Hazardous Waste Section

  1. Approval of proposed Stipulation and Consent Order between the Board and Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District (Board Action Item)

VIII.  Low-Level Radioactive Waste Section

  1. EnergySolutions request for a site-specific treatment variance from the Hazardous Waste Management Rules – EnergySolutions seeks authorization to treat waste contaminated with dioxins and furans by macroencapsulation rather than by chemical means (Board Action Item)
  1. EnergySolutions request for an exemption from R313-25-9(5) of the Utah Administrative Code (Information Item Only)
  1. EnergySolutions presentation
  1. Heal Utah presentation in response to EnergySolutions’ request for an exemption from R313-25-9(5) of the Utah Administrative Code
  1. Other Business
  1. Miscellaneous Information Items
  1. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting
  1. Adjourn

 

The Board — which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate — guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.  The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.  

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Southeast Compact Commission’s Administrative Committee Meets

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On September 12, 2018, the Administrative Committee of the Southeast Compact Commission for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management held a special called meeting via teleconference.

During the teleconference, the Committee discussed administrative matters related to the continued operations and staffing of the Commission, including, but not limited to, Commission bylaws; staffing requirements; staff salaries and benefits; personnel policies; internal controls for accounting; and, transition planning.

The following is the agenda for the committee meeting:

  • Introduction and Remarks (Donna Hodges, Chair)
  • Public Comment Pertaining to Agenda Items Only (Public)
  • Approval of Minutes from June 25, 2018 (Committee Members)
  • Discussion of Administrative Matters Related to the Continued Operations and Staffing of the Commission (Committee Members)
  • Other Business (Committee Members)
  • Public Comment (Public)
  • Adjourn

All Southeast Compact Commission and committee meetings are open to the public.  Interested stakeholders were provided an opportunity to participate in the call at offices in states located within the Southeast Compact Commission including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee and Virginia.

For additional information, please contact Southeast Compact Commission Executive Director Ted Buckner at (919) 380-7780 or at secc@secompact.org.

Registration Open for 2019 Waste Management Conference

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Registration is now open for the 2019 Waste Management (WM) conference, which will be held at the Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona from March 3-7, 2019.

Overview

The 2019 WM conference theme is “Encouraging Young Men & Women to Achieve Their Goals in Radwaste Management.”  The conference focus is promoting the next generation of radwaste management professionals, so young professionals are strongly encouraged to get involved.  The 2019 WM conference plans to have several special programs to encourage and support their participation.

The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) typically organizes a panel for the WM conference titled, Hot Topics and Emerging Issues in U.S. Commercial Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management.  The LLW Forum-organized panel focuses on emerging issues in U.S. commercial low-level radioactive waste management from the perspective of active members of the LLW Forum.  During the panel, state, compact, federal and industry officials share their views on a variety of timely and significant topics related to low-level radioactive waste management, disposal and related issues.

Background

The annual WM conference, presented by WM Symposia (WMS), is an international symposium concerning the safe and secure management of radioactive wastes arising from nuclear operations, facility decommissioning and environmental remediation, as well as storage, transportation and disposal and associated activates.  WMS was founded to provide a forum for discussing and seeking cost-effective and environmentally responsible solutions for the safe management and disposition of radioactive waste and radioactive materials.

The WM 2019 conference marks the 45th annual Waste Management Symposium.  The conference provides an opportunity for stakeholders to connect with the worldwide nuclear community in a forum for discussing and seeking safe and cost-effective solutions to managing and dispositioning radioactive waste and decommissioning nuclear facilities.  The WM 2019 conference will feature more than 500 papers and over 40 panel discussions in 130 plus technical sessions complemented by the industry’s largest annual exhibition of nearly 200 companies.  Registration will open in late August 2018.

For additional information on the Waste Management Conference, please call (480) 557-0263 or email to shelley@wmarizona.org or visit the organization’s website at www.wmsym.org.  For technical program questions, please contact WM Deputy Managing Director and Program Advisory Committee (PAC) Chair Gary Benda at (803) 317-1116 or at gbenda@wmarizona.org.

Registration Open for Fall 2018 LLW Forum Meeting and Historic B Reactor Site Tour

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Red Lion Hotel in Richland, Washington
October 2-4, 2018

The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) is pleased to announce that registration is now open for our fall 2018 meeting, which will be held at the Red Lion Hotel in Richland, Washington on October 3-4, 2018.

In terms of planning and making travel arrangements, please note that there will be an optional site tour of Hanford’s Historic B Reactor for interested stakeholders from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. on October 2, 2018.

The Executive Committee will meet from 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday morning (October 3, 2018).  The Disused Sources Working Group (DSWG) will meet from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Thursday (October 4, 2018). 

Interested stakeholders are encouraged to register and make hotel reservations for the meeting at your earliest convenience, as there is limited space available in our discount room block.

The Northwest Interstate Compact on Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management is sponsoring the meeting.

The meeting documents—including a meeting bulletin and registration form—are available on the LLW Forum Meeting page of the organization’s web site at http://llwforum.org/llw-forum-meeting/. 

As a new option for interested stakeholders, a registration form may be completed and submitted online.

Attendance

Officials from states, compacts, federal agencies, nuclear utilities, disposal operators, brokers/processors, industry and other interested parties are encouraged to attend the fall 2018 LLW Forum meeting.

LLW Forum meetings are an excellent opportunity to stay up-to-date on the most recent and significant developments in the area of low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.  They also offer an important opportunity to network with other government and industry officials and to participate in decision-making on future actions and endeavors affecting low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.

LLW Forum Meeting Location and Dates

The fall 2018 LLW Forum meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 3 (9:00 am – 5:00 p.m.) and Thursday, October 4 (9:00 am – 1:00 pm) at:

Red Lion Richland Hanford House Hotel
802 George Washington Way
Richland, Washington  99354

Located in the heart of historic Richland, the Red Lion Hanford House is centrally located for business and leisure travelers visiting the Hanford Reservation.  The hotel, overlooking the Columbia River, is within easy walking distance of several restaurants and government buildings.

Optional Hanford B Reactor Site Tour Logistics

The Washington State Department of Health will sponsor an optional tour of Hanford’s Historic B Reactor on Tuesday afternoon (October 2, 2018) from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.  The B Reactor is the world’s first full-scale plutonium production reactor.

Interested parties need to check the box on the LLW Forum meeting registration form, as well as complete and submit the separate Hanford B Reactor optional site tour registration form.  The tour originates from the B Reactor offices located about 7 minutes from the Hanford House.

Registration

All persons must pre-register for the LLW Forum meeting and pay any associated registration fees in order to be allowed entry.  Registration forms are needed in order to ensure that you receive a meeting packet and name badge.  Accordingly, interested attendees are asked to please take a moment to complete the meeting registration form at your earliest convenience and return it to the LLW Forum at the mailing or e-mail address listed at the bottom of the form.

Attendees that are planning to participate in the optional Hanford B Reactor site tour must also pre-register.  Please note that there is a separate registration form with differential submittal directions for the optional site tour.

The meeting is free for up to two individuals representing members of the LLW Forum.  Additional and non-member registration is $600, payable by check only to the “LLW Forum, Inc.”  (Credit card payments are not accepted.)

Reservations

Persons who plan to attend the meeting are strongly encouraged to make their hotel reservations and send in their registration forms as soon as possible, as we have exceeded our block at the last few meetings.

A block of rooms have been reserved for Monday through Thursday (October 1-4, 2018) for meeting attendees at the special, discounted rate of  $96.00 (single/double rate) plus tax.  To make a reservation, please go to the booking link on the attached meeting bulletin or call (509) 946-7611, press zero for the operator and ask for a reservation under the discount group code WSDO1001.  Please note that you must provide the code in order to get the special, discounted rate.

The deadline for reserving a room at the discounted rate is September 10, 2018.

Transportation and Directions  

The Red Lion Richland Hanford House Hotel is located 10-12 minutes from the Pasco Airport, which is the nearest commercial travel connection.

If you have questions or require additional information, please contact Todd D. Lovinger, Esq. — Executive Director of the LLW Forum and Project Director of the Disused Sources and Part 61 Working Groups (DSWG/P61WG) — at (754) 779-7551 or at LLWForumInc@aol.com. 

 

Southeast Compact Commission Holds 110th Business Meeting

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On June 26, 2018, the Southeast Compact Commission for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management held its 110th business meeting at the Environmental Finance Authority Office in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Southeast Compact Commission’s Policy and Planning Committee and Administrative Committee met one day earlier at the same location.

Business Meeting

The 110th business meeting of the Southeast Compact Commission began at 9:00 a.m. EDT on June 26 in the Board Room at the Environmental Finance Authority Office.  During the business meeting, the Southeast Compact Commission received committee reports; adopted a budget for fiscal year 2018-19; elected a new Chair-Elect and Secretary-Treasurer; and, conducted other business as it came before the Commission.

Policy and Planning Committee Meeting

The Policy and Planning Committee met at 1:00 p.m. EDT on June 25 in the Board Room at the Environmental Finance Authority Office.  During the Policy and Planning Committee meeting, the Committee considered and reviewed the Strategic Plan and other matters as they came before the committee.

Administrative Committee Meeting

The Administrative Committee began at 3:30 p.m. EDT on June 25 in the Board Room at the Environmental Finance Authority Office.  During the Administrative Committee meeting, the committee discussed a budget for fiscal year 2018-19; Southeast Compact Commission finances; the ad hoc committee review of staff salaries and benefits; and, conducted other business as it came before the Commission.

All Southeast Compact Commission and committee meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact the Southeast Compact Commission at (919) 380-7780 or at secc@secompact.org

Texas Compact Commission Holds May 2018 Meeting

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On May 17, 2018, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (Texas Compact Commission) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Austin, Texas.  The meeting began at 9:30 a.m. CDT.  It was held in Room E1.028 at the Texas Capitol, which is located at 1100 Congress Avenue in Austin, Texas.

Agenda

The following is an abbreviated overview of the agenda for the Texas Compact Commission meeting.  Persons interested in additional detail are directed to the formal agenda themselves.

  • call to order;
  • roll call and determination of quorum;
  • introduction of Commissioners, elected officials and press;
  • public comment;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications for importation of low-level radioactive waste from NextEra Point Beach, Entergy Grand Gulf, Talen Energy, Talen Energy (irradiated hardware), RAM Services and Thomas Gray;
  • consideration of and possible action on amendments to existing agreements with Exelon and EnergySolutions;
  • consideration and possible action on May 15, 2018 letter to U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regarding the February 14, 2018 notice in the Federal Register relating to the Very Low-Level Waste (VLLW) scoping study;
  • receive reports from Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) about recent site operations;
  • receive report from Chair on Texas Compact Commission activities including an update on the to-be-formed committee as a result of recent legislation;
  • report from Leigh Ing, Executive Director of the Texas Compact Commission, on her activities relating to workshops and Texas Compact Commission operations;
  • discussion and possible changes of dates and locations of future Texas Compact Commission meetings in 2018; and,
  • adjourn.

Background

The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code.  Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

Southwestern Compact Commission Hosts 78th Meeting

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On May 15, 2018, the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission hosted its 78th meeting beginning at 9:00 a.m. PDT at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, which is located at 1380 Harbor Island Drive in San Diego, California 92101.

The following topics, among others, were on the meeting agenda:

  • call to order
  • roll call
  • welcome and introductions
  • statement regarding due notice of meeting
  • reports – activity and/or status
  • Commission Chair

–     Executive Director

  • licensing agency

–     party states

  • exportation
  • ratification of approved petitions – 2017 (E-17-111 – E-17-124 & WCS-17-067 – WCS-17-084) and 2018 (E-18-001 – E-18-103 & WCS-18-001 – WCS-18-043)
  • export report – presented by Commissioner Vadnais
  • discuss, review and possible action on impacts of Very Low-Level Waste (VLLW) and by-laws recommended by legal counsel
  • discuss draft policy on “reuse” by legal counsel
  • report on necessary “reserves” and direction from Commission on compact funds
  • update on SONGS, PGE-Diablo, WCS new ownership and visit to Texas
  • executive session pursuant to California Government Code § 11126(a)(1) to report and discuss action regarding interview and contract for legal counsel

return to open session

  • discuss and direct Executive Director pursuant to above closed session, if required
  • review and approved current budget, if necessary
  • public comment
  • future agenda items
  • next meeting – October 5, 2018
  • adjournment

Members of the public were invited to attend the meeting and comment on specific agenda items as the Commission considered them.  The total public comment time on each agenda item was limited to 15 minutes.  Written material was also accepted.  A 15-minute public comment period was provided near the end of the meeting at which time members of the public were invited to bring before the Commission issues relating to low-level radioactive waste but which were not on the agenda.

For additional information, please contact Kathy Davis, Executive Director of the Southwestern Compact Commission, at (916) 448-2390 or at swllrwcc@swllrwcc.org.

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Holds Meeting

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On May 10 2018, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held an electronic/telephonic meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. in accordance with the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act.

The anchor location of the Board meeting, which was open to the public, was the Red Rocks Conference Room 3132, Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), in the Multi Agency State Office Building that is located at 195 North 1950 West in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Agenda

The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the May 2018 Board meeting:

  1. Call to Order
  1. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the April 12, 2018 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)

III.    Underground Storage Tanks Update

  1. X-Ray Program
  1. Approval of Mammography Imaging Medical Physicists (MIMPs) in accordance with UCA-19-6-104(2)(b). (Board Action Item)
  1. Adjourn

Background

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.

The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.  

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Meets

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On April 12, 2018, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The meeting, which was open to the public, was held in Conference Room 1015, Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Board Room, in the Multi Agency State Office Building that is located at 195 North 1950 West in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Agenda  The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the April 2018 Board meeting:

  • call to order;
  • approval of meeting minutes for the February 8, 2018 Board meeting (Board Action Item);
  • underground storage tanks update;
  • administrative rules:

–     approval to proceed with formal rulemaking and public comment on a proposed rule change to R313-37, Physical Protection of Category 1 and Category 2 Radioactive Materials, to incorporate federal regulatory changes promulgated by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.  (Board Action Item);

  • used oil section:

–     final adoption of rule changes to R315-15, Standards for the Management of Used Oil Rules.  (Board Action Item);

  • Director’s report:

–     proposed Stipulation and Consent Order between the Board and EnergySolutions, LLC.  (Information Item Only);

  • other business:
  • miscellaneous information item;
  • scheduling of next Board meeting;
  • election of Board Chair and Vice Chair (Board Action Item); and,
  • adjourn.

Background

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.  The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.  

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Public Meetings Scheduled re Proposed Holtec Consolidated Interim Spent Fuel Facility in New Mexico

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On April 9, 2018, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) announced that the agency is seeking public comment on the scope of its environmental review of Holtec International’s application for a license to construct and operate a consolidated interim spent fuel storage facility in Lea County, New Mexico.  NRC staff will hold a series of public meetings in late April and early May to describe the review process and take public comments.

Overview

According to the license application, Holtec is seeking to store up to 8,680 metric tons of uranium in commercial spent fuel in the Holtec International Storage Module Underground “MAXimum” Capacity (HI-STORM UMAX) Storage System for a 40-year license term.  The subterranean used nuclear fuel storage system has a maximum storage capacity of 10,000 canisters.  The initial license application is for 500 storage cavities.  The NRC previously certified HI-STORM UMAX in Docket number 72-1040.

“Engineered over a decade ago and licensed by the NRC in 2015, HI-STORM UMAX is physically sized to store all of the used nuclear fuel produced in the U.S. and all canisters currently licensed in dry storage in the country making it a truly universal used fuel storage facility,” states Holtec.  “Already deployed at multiple nuclear power plants around the U.S. …, the HI-STORM UMAX stores the stainless steel canister containing the spent fuel or high-level waste entirely below-ground to serve as a ‘security-friendly’ storage facility, providing a clear, unobstructed view of the entire CISF from any location.  HI-STORE CIS is envisioned to unify the storage of all different storage canisters (both vertically and horizontally stored) in one standardized HI-STORM UMAX cavity system simplifying operations and aging management activities.”

“Storing the Nation’s used nuclear fuel in the HI-STORM UMAX system is a temporary measure, as the stainless-steel canisters are easily retrievable and ready for transport pending the determination of a safe permanent solution for managing used nuclear materials.,” continues Holtec.  “The canisters are designed, qualified, and tested to survive and prevent the release of radioactive material under the most adverse accident scenarios postulated by NRC regulations for both storage and transportation.”

Holtec is using its own funds to support the licensing action.  According to Holtec, the project has “the enthusiastic support of nuclear-savvy communities in southeastern New Mexico incorporated as the Eddy Lea Energy Alliance (ELEA), LLC.”  If the initial application is approved, Holtec plans to make supplemental submittals to incorporate the various canister types being used in the industry.

The Holtec application and other documents related to the NRC’s review are available on the NRC website at www.nrc.gov.

Public Comment

On April 25, 2018, NRC will hold the first “scoping” meeting at the agency’s headquarters in Rockville, Maryland.  The meeting is scheduled from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET.  There will also be a webinar so people unable to attend in person may follow the meeting.  Interested stakeholders may participate in the meeting via webinar at

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7824864004787186434.

NRC staff will also hold three meetings in New Mexico as follows:

  • April 30, 2018 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. MT at the Eastern New Mexico University- Roswell, Campus Union Building, Multi-Purpose Room 110, which is located at 48 University Boulevard in Roswell;
  • May 1, 2018 from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. MT at the
Lea County Event Center, which is located at 5101 N. Lovingston Highway in Hobbs; and,
  • May 3, 2018 from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. MT at the Eddy County Fire Service, which is located at 1400 Commerce Drive in Carlsbad.

The first meeting will be an open house and poster session.  The other two meetings will be full scoping meetings.  NRC staff members will hold an open house one hour before each of the Hobbs and Carlsbad meetings to meet informally with members of the public.  A court reporter will be available to record comments at all locations.  Spanish-speaking staff will be available at the New Mexico meetings to assist with translation.

Background

Holtec submitted its application on March 30, 2017.  The NRC formally docketed the application on February 28, 2018.  On March 30, 2018, NRC published a Federal Register notice requesting public comments on the scope of its environmental review.  (See 83 Federal Register 13,802 dated March 30, 2018.)  Comments will be accepted through May 29, 2018.  On April 6, 2018, NRC published a separate notice about the public meetings.  (See 83 Federal Register 14,897 dated April 6, 2018.)

For additional information, please contact , please contact Erika Grandrimo of Holtec at (856) 797-0090 ext. 3920 or at e.grandrimo@holtec.com or David McIntyre of the NRC at (301) 415-8200.

NRC to Host Public Meeting re VLLW Scoping Study and Disposal of GTCC and Transuranic Waste

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On February 22, 2018, the Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards (NMSS) of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) will host a public meeting to discuss the Very Low-Level Radioactive Waste (VLLW) Scoping Study and concerns associated with the disposal of Greater-than-Class C (GTCC) waste.

The public meeting will be held in the auditorium at the agency’s headquarters in Rockville, Maryland.  It is scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on February 22, 2018.

Interested stakeholders may participate via webinar or teleconference using the following information:

Webinar

Interested stakeholders may participate in the public meeting via webinar using the following link:

Teleconference

Interested stakeholders may participate in the public meeting via teleconference using the following information:

  • Teleconference Number: (800) 857-9840
  • Teleconference Password: 4975456

This meeting will be transcribed and will have a facilitated bridgeline.

For additional information on the NRC public meeting, please contact Cardelia Maupin at (301) 415-2312 or Maurice Heath at (301) 415-3137.

Texas Compact Commission Holds November 2017 Meeting

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On November 16, 2017, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (Texas Compact Commission) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Austin, Texas.  It was held in Room E1.028 at the Texas Capitol, which is located at 1100 Congress Avenue in Austin, Texas.

The meeting, which began at 9:30 a.m. CDT, followed the conclusion of a one-day workshop focused on disposal options for in-compact waste generators, specifically on topics that are important to Texas generators.

The formal meeting agenda is available on the Texas Compact Commission’s web site at www.tllrwdcc.org. 

Agenda

The following is an abbreviated overview of the agenda for the Texas Compact Commission meeting.  Persons interested in additional detail are directed to the formal agenda themselves.

  • call to order;
  • roll call and determination of quorum;
  • introduction of Commissioners, elected officials and press;
  • public comment;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications for importation of low-level radioactive waste from Arizona Public Service Palo Verde; Qal-Tek (as broker); Qal-Tek (as generator); Southern Nuclear Company Hatch; and, Southern Nuclear Company Hatch Irradiated Hardware;
  • receive reports from Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) about recent site operations;
  • receive report from Chair on Texas Compact Commission activities including an update on the to-be-formed committee as a result of recent legislation;
  • report from Leigh Ing, Executive Director of the Texas Compact Commission, on her activities relating to workshops and Texas Compact Commission operations;
  • discussion and possible changes of dates and locations of future Texas Compact Commission meetings in 2018; and,
  • adjourn.

Background

The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code.  Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Holds November 2018 Meeting

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On November 9, 2017, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The meeting, which was open to the public, was held in Conference Room 3132, Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Board Room, in the Multi Agency State Office Building that is located at 195 North 1950 West in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Agenda

The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the November 2017 Board meeting:

I.   Call to Order

II.   Approval of Meeting Minutes for the October 12, 2017 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)

III.   Underground Storage Tanks Update

IV.   Low-Level Radioactive Waste Section

  1. EnergySolutions, LLC request for a site-specific treatment variance from the Hazardous Waste Management Rules. EnergySolutions seeks authorization to treat by stabilization waste containing High-Subcategory Mercury.  (Board Action Item)
  2. EnergySolutions, LLC request for a site-specific treatment variance from the Hazardous Waste Management Rules. EnergySolutions seeks authorization to receive Cemented Uranium Extraction Process Residues for disposal.  (Board Action Item)
  3. EnergySolutions, LLC request for a site-specific treatment variance from the Hazardous Waste Management Rules. EnergySolutions seeks authorization to dispose of waste containing hazardous constituents and PCBs as Underlying Hazardous Constituent.  (Board Action Item)

V.  Other Business

  1. Miscellaneous Information Item
  2. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting

VI. Adjourn

Background

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.

The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.  

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Southwestern Compact Commission Hosts 76th Meeting

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On October 6, 2017, the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission hosted its 76th meeting beginning at 9:00 a.m. PDT at the Hyatt Regency in Sacramento, California.

The following topics, among others, were on the meeting agenda:

  • call to order;
  • roll call;
  • welcome and introductions—announce retirement of Commissioner Godwin, introduce Brian Goretzki of Arizona;
  • statement regarding due notice of meeting;
  • reports, status and/or activity;
    • Commission Chair;
    • Executive Director;
    • licensing agency;
    • license designee; and,
    • party states.
  • discuss and potential action on Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) activities (i.e., sponsorship, membership, workshop, future agendas and participation);
  • update and status of EnergySolutions, Waste Control Specialists (WCS) and SONGS;
  • discuss activities and potential action on Reutilization and Reuse Program;
  • exportation actions;
  • ratification of approved petitions;
    • amend “Policy of the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission Regarding Exportation of Various Low-Level Radioactive Waste Streams” to extend effective date;
    • amend “Requirements for Exportation Petitions for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal” to extend effective date; and,
    • review and amend petitions forms.
  • financial audit report by Miers & Miers;
  • Executive Session pursuant to CA Gov. Code §11126(a)(1) to discuss staff performance evaluations;
  • review and approve Executive Director’s and Counsel’s contracts;
  • review and approve Annual Governor’s Report;
  • amend fiscal year 2017-18 budget;
  • approve fiscal year 2018-19 budget;
  • review and approve Office Procedures Manual;
  • review and approve Southwestern By-Laws;
  • adopt fee schedule;
  • public comment;
  • election of officers;
  • future agenda items;
  • next meetings; and,
  • adjournment.

Members of the public were invited to attend the meeting and comment on specific agenda items as the Commission considered them.  The total public comment time on each agenda item was limited to 15 minutes.  Written material was also accepted.  A 15-minute public comment period was provided near the end of the meeting at which time members of the public were invited to bring before the Commission issues relating to low-level radioactive waste but which were not on the agenda.

For additional information, please contact Kathy Davis, Executive Director of the Southwestern Compact Commission, at (916) 448-2390 or at swllrwcc@swllrwcc.org.

Texas Compact Commission Holds October 2017 Meeting

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On October 5, 2017, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (Texas Compact Commission) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Montpelier, Vermont.

The meeting began at 9:30 a.m. EDT/8:30 a.m. CDT.  It was held in Room 11 at the Vermont State House, which is located at 115 State Street in Montpelier Vermont.

The formal meeting agenda is available on the Texas Compact Commission’s web site at www.tllrwdcc.org. 

Agenda  The following is an abbreviated overview of the agenda for the Texas Compact Commission meeting.  Persons interested in additional detail are directed to the formal agenda themselves.

  • call to order;
  • roll call and determination of quorum;
  • introduction of Commissioners, elected officials and press;
  • public comment;
  • welcome by Vermont Public Service Department Commissioner June Tierney;
  • discussion by Entergy Vermont Yankee regarding the closure and decommissioning of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications for importation of low-level radioactive waste from Nextera Turkey Point; Dominion Kewaunee; Dominion Kewaunee IH; Philotechnics; Alaron Veolia; PGE Diablo Canyon; EnergySolutions; Energy Palisades; Energy Palisades IH; Thomas Gray; and, RAM Services;
  • reconsideration of and possible action on an application for importation of low-level radioactive waste from Southern Nuclear Vogtle;
  • consideration of and possible action to publish for public comment in the Texas Register a proposal to adopt a new §675.24 in TAC Title 31, Part 21, Chapter 675 relating to the requirement for certain entities to report on a quarterly basis the receipt of certain low-level radioactive waste that is not required to be disposed of in the Texas Compact Facility as recommended by the Texas Compact Commission’s Rules Committee;
  • receive reports from Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) about recent site operations;
  • receive report from Chair on Texas Compact Commission activities including an update on contingency planning and legislative affairs;
  • report from Leigh Ing, Executive Director of the Texas Compact Commission, on her activities relating to future workshops, export reporting and Texas Compact Commission operations;
  • discussion and possible changes of dates and locations of future Texas Compact Commission meetings in 2017 and 2018; and,
  • adjourn.

 

Background  The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code.  Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

LLW Forum to Hold Spring 2018 Meeting

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April 16-17, 2018 in San Francisco, California

The spring 2018 meeting of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) will be held at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport in Burlingame, California on April 16-17, 2018.  Please mark your calendars accordingly and save the date!  The Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission is co-sponsoring the meeting with the LLW Forum.

Overview  The spring 2018 LLW Forum meeting will be held on Monday, April 16 (9:00 am – 5:00 pm) and Tuesday, April 17 (9:00 am – 1:00 pm) at:  

Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport
1333 Bayshore Highway
Burlingame, California

The Hyatt Regency is located just minutes from the San Francisco International Airport on Interstate 101.  Complimentary shuttle service is available through the hotel 24 hrs a day.  In addition, the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) commuter train station with direct service to downtown San Francisco will also be available by shuttle service from the Hyatt Regency. 

Background  Officials from states, compacts, federal agencies, nuclear utilities, disposal operators, brokers/processors, industry, and other interested parties are encouraged to attend the spring 2018 LLW Forum meeting.

LLW Forum meetings are an excellent opportunity to stay up-to-date on the most recent and significant developments in the area of low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.  They also offer an important opportunity to network with other government and industry officials and to participate in decision-making on future actions and endeavors affecting low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.

If you have questions or require additional information, please contact Todd D. Lovinger, Esq.—Executive Director of the LLW Forum and Project Director of the Disused Sources and Part 61 Working Groups (DSWG/P61WG)—at (754) 779-7551 or at LLWForumInc@aol.com. 

Registration Open for Perma-Fix Nuclear Waste Management Forum

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Registration is now open for the 15th annual Perma-Fix Nuclear Waste Management Forum.  The conference will be held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee on November 27-29, 2017.  Perma-Fix Environmental Services, Inc sponsors the event.

Nuclear industry leaders that focus on the area of radioactive waste management are encouraged to attend this event.  Attendees learn information about the latest technologies and applications regarding waste characterization, packaging, treatment, transportation and disposition while sharing lessons learned that improve safety and efficiency for their projects.

According to the event notice, this is an opportunity to network with experts from a variety of U.S. and international waste generator sites, government officials and other companies focused on waste management objectives.

For additional information, please go to www.perma-fix.com or contact Autumn Bogus of Perma-Fix Environmental Services at abogus@perma-fix.com or at (865) 251-2088.

Draft Agenda Released for Fall 2017 LLW Forum Meeting

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Hilton Alexandria Old Town Hotel in Alexandria, Virginia
October 16-17, 2017

The draft agenda for the upcoming Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) meeting has been released and posted to the organization’s website at www.llwforum.org. The meeting will be held at the Hilton Old Town Alexandria Hotel in Alexandria, Virginia on October 16-17, 2017.

As a reminder, the discount rate hotel room block for the meeting closes in just four weeks on September 29, 2017, unless the block reaches capacity in advance of the deadline.  Currently, there is only very limited space remaining in the discount room block.   Accordingly, interested stakeholders are encouraged to register and make hotel reservations for the meeting at your earliest convenience.

The Southeast Compact Commission for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management and the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission are co-sponsoring the meeting.

The LLW Forum meeting documents—including a meeting bulletin, registration form and draft agenda—have been posted to the LLW Forum Meeting page of the organization’s web site at www.llwforum.org.  As a new option for interested stakeholders, a registration form may be completed and submitted online.

Agenda Topics  The following is a list of agenda topics for the meeting:

  • panel discussion/interactive dialogue re regulatory oversight of oil and gas operations—management and disposition of the resultant radiological byproduct material;
  • panel session re decommissioning of nuclear power plants—regulatory requirements and updates, operator experiences and future planning considerations;
  • development and implementation of a program re source reuse and reutilization;
  • U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regulatory program emerging issues including rulemaking and guidance development; management of very low-level radioactive waste; and, program budget request;
  • NRC’s proposed revisions re guidance for alternative disposal of low-activity waste;
  • IMPEP process and non-common indicator re low-level radioactive waste disposal program;
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) activities and updates including the development of new federal guidance for dose and risk assessment;
  • addressing cybersecurity issues and concerns at U.S. nuclear power plants;
  • emergency planning for radiological incidents and nuclear terrorism;
  • U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) activities and updates including path forward for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) and transuranic waste across the DOE complex; waste management forecasts, planning and prioritization; and, next steps re Greater-than-Class C environmental impact statement;
  • Category 3 source security and accountability re-evaluation;
  • Mount Sinai experience in reducing and removing the risk of malicious use of radioactive materials;
  • pilot Source Collection and Threat Reduction (SCATR) project re disposal of high-activity cesium irradiator;
  • preparation and submittal of report to Congress by the Radiation Source Protection and Security Task Force;
  • reporting and tracking of commercial low-level radioactive waste disposal;
  • NRC import and export waste and licensing activities;
  • radium contamination at non-military sites across the country;
  • updates and activities re the Waste Control Specialists commercial and federal low-level radioactive waste disposal facility in Andrews County, Texas; and,
  • updates and activities re the Clive low-level radioactive waste disposal facility in Tooele County, Utah.

Attendance  Officials from states, compacts, federal agencies, nuclear utilities, disposal operators, brokers/processors, industry, and other interested parties are encouraged to attend the spring 2017 LLW Forum meeting.

LLW Forum meetings are an excellent opportunity to stay up-to-date on the most recent and significant developments in the area of low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.  They also offer an important opportunity to network with other government and industry officials and to participate in decision-making on future actions and endeavors affecting low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.

Location and Dates  The fall 2017 LLW Forum meeting will be held on Monday, October 16 (9:00 am – 6:00 p.m.) and Tuesday, October 17 (8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.) at the Hilton Alexandria Old Town Hotel, which is located at 1767 King Street in Alexandria, Virginia.

Located in the historic, vibrant King Street neighborhood, the Hilton Alexandria Old Town hotel is one of the most convenient hotels in Alexandria, VA for business and leisure travelers visiting Washington, DC.  The hotel is just steps away from King Street Metro station and close to Reagan National Airport.  Downtown DC attractions and government buildings are minutes away by Metro.

Registration  All persons must pre-register for the meeting and pay any associated registration fees in order to be allowed entry.  Registration forms are needed in order to ensure that you receive a meeting packet and name badge.  Accordingly, interested attendees are asked to please take a moment to complete the registration form at your earliest convenience and return it to the Southeast Compact Commission at the mailing or e-mail address listed at the bottom of the form.

The meeting is free for up to two individuals representing members of the LLW Forum.  Additional and non-member registration is $500, payable by check only to the “LLW Forum, Inc.”  (Credit card payments are not accepted.)

Reservations  Persons who plan to attend the meeting are strongly encouraged to make their hotel reservations and send in their registration forms as soon as possible, as we have exceeded our block at the last few meetings.

A limited block of hotel rooms has been reserved for Sunday, October 15th and Monday, October 16th at the rate of $231.00 plus tax per night (for single/double occupancy), $239 plus tax (king), $251 triple and $271 quad).  The same rates have been extended to three days prior and three days post the meeting dates.

To make a reservation, please call (703) 647-2035 (Group Code is OLW).  Reservations may also be made at the website at:

http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/D/DCAOTHF-OLW-20171015/index.jhtml.

The deadline for reserving a room at the discounted rate is September 29, 2017.

Transportation and Directions  From Reagan National Airport via the Metro, the hotel is located next to the King Street Metro Station, accessible by the Blue and Yellow lines and only two stops from Reagan National Airport. Directions from other airports are given on the Hilton website, www.hiltonalexandria.com.  Taxi fares are typically around $20.00.

If you have questions or require additional information, please contact Todd D. Lovinger, Esq.—Executive Director of the LLW Forum and Project Director of the Disused Sources and Part 61 Working Groups (DSWG/P61WG)—at (754) 779-7551 or at LLWForumInc@aol.com. 

Central Interstate Commission Passes Resolution Authorizing Waste Exports

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On June 20, 2017, the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission held its annual meeting at the Capital Hotel in Little Rock, Arkansas.

During the meeting, the Commission passed a resolution granting approval for all low-level radioactive waste generators in the compact region (Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma) to export their low-level radioactive waste without first making application to the Commission.

The text of the resolution is as follows:

WHEREAS, the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission (“Commission”) was established in 1984 pursuant to the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact (“Compact”) (Public Law 99-240) and has, as current member states, Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma, and  

WHEREAS, Article III.g. of the Compact provides that, unless authorized by the Commission, it shall be unlawful after January 1, 1986 for any person to export from the region, low-level radioactive waste (“LLRW”) generated within the region, and to transport LLRW from the site at which it is generated except to a regional facility, and 

WHEREAS, in 2006, the Commission adopted a resolution to not actively pursue siting a regional facility in one of the member states, and  

WHEREAS, by not having a regional facility in one of the member states, all LLRW generators in the member states have exported their LLRW wastes from the region to a non-Compact disposal facility after having applied to, and obtained authorization from, the Commission, as required by Article III.g., and 

WHEREAS, the Commission has determined there is no further need to require each LLRW generator to apply to the Commission for export authorization,  

BE IT NOW THEREFORE RESOLVED THAT:

 

A. This Resolution shall take effect July 1, 2017 and shall serve as authorization for export required under Article III.g. of the Compact.

B. The Commission authorizes all LLRW generators within the member states to export LLRW generated at their facilities to any duly authorized and permitted disposal facility outside of the Compact, without application to the Commission or payment of any application fee, provided the export is done in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations and any terms or conditions required of both the disposal facility to receive the LLRW and the regional Compact in which the disposal facility is located. 

C. Within 30 days of the date this Resolution is adopted, the Administrator shall ensure a copy of this Resolution is posted on the Commission’s webpage and is provided to: 

  • all LLRW generators who have filed Export Applications with the Commission during Fiscal Years 2015 to the present; and
  • the following LLRW disposal facilities and their associated Compact:
    • EnergySolutions in Barnwell, South Carolina (Atlantic Compact);
    • EnergySolutions in Clive, Utah (Northwest Compact);
    • S. Ecology in Richland, Washington (Northwest Compact); and
    • Waste Control Specialists in Andrews, Texas (Texas-Vermont Compact).

This resolution shall remain in effect until modified, suspended, or revoked by the Commission.

The resolution was adopted by a 4 to 0 vote of the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission.  The effective date of the resolution, which was signed by Commission Chair Jon Roberts, is July 1, 2017.

For additional information, please contact Kristie Valtierra, Administrator of the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission, at (402) 702-5220 or at admin@cillrwcc.org or visit their web site at www.cillrwcc.org.

NAS Releases LLW Workshop Proceedings

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On June 6, 2017, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NAS) released the final publication, Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management and Disposition: Proceedings of a Workshop.  The publication documents the proceedings from a workshop that was organized by the NAS Nuclear and Radiation Studies Board, Division on Earth and Life Studies, at the request of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE or Department).  The workshop was held in Washington, DC on October 24-25, 2016.

During the workshop, presenters and attendees provided perspectives from academia, industry, federal agencies (including those outside of DOE), state governments, international organizations, public interest groups, and national laboratories.  The proceedings provide a factual description of the workshop presentations and discussions and are limited to the views and opinions of those participating in the event.  The proceedings do not contain consensus findings or recommendations.

Overview  DOE asked NAS to organize this workshop to discuss approaches for the management and disposition of low-level radioactive waste.  The workshop considered similarities between successful case studies, in which unique disposition pathways have been developed to address low-level radioactive wastes, and explored ways to extend these similar characteristics to problematic wastes—i.e., low-level radioactive wastes currently without a clear disposition pathway.  Specifically, the workshop explored the key physical, chemical, and radiological characteristics of low-level radioactive waste that govern its safe and secure management (i.e., packaging, transport, storage) and disposition, in aggregate and for individual waste-streams; and, how key characteristics of low-level waste are incorporated into standards, orders, and regulations that govern the management and disposition of low-level radioactive waste in the United States and in other major waste-producing countries.

Workshop Structure  The workshop began by defining the “universe” of low-level radioactive waste within the United States and elsewhere—first by introducing the types of waste that exist and then by exploring the standards, orders, regulations, and laws that define and control their disposal.  Case studies were then presented to highlight the successful disposal of a variety of wastes that previously lacked a clear disposition pathway—these case studies are referred to as “success stories.”  The studies were selected from within and outside of the United States.  The participants explored common themes that led to success within the case studies such as: the use of existing regulations and standards (i.e., waste classification) to provide an anchor for disposal decisions; the identification of lessons learned from similar or analogous problems such as Canada’s or France’s approach to managing and disposing of very low-level waste (VLLW); and, the importance of site characteristics for disposal decisions.  These themes were organized into an approach to guide future discussions and disposition decisions for challenging low-level radioactive waste streams—referred to in the proceedings as a “common themes approach.”

Waste Streams  The common themes approach was applied to a set of five pre-selected challenging low-level radioactive waste streams that spanned a variety of waste characteristics including Greater-Than-Class C (GTCC) and commercial transuranic waste (TRU) waste in excess of 100 nCi/g; sealed sources; VLLW and very low-activity waste; incident waste; and, depleted uranium.  One leader from each breakout group introduced a specific challenging low-level radioactive waste stream to the full workshop and later summarized the breakout group’s results of applying the common themes approach to the issues associated with the disposal of this waste stream.  Several participants identified short-term actions or next steps that could be taken to show progress in addressing each challenging waste stream in the final session of the workshop.

Challenges  Each of the waste streams discussed at the workshop presents a unique set of challenges for disposal.  For example, GTCC waste and commercial TRU waste in excess of 100 nCi/g lack a clear disposition pathway, while VLLW and very low-activity waste have a disposition pathway in which the level of protection may be considered incommensurate with the hazard, or a potentially non-optimal disposition pathway.  According to NAS, the application of the common themes approach to these diverse waste streams was intended to explore how adaptable this approach would be as a tool in discussing or presenting a variety of disposal options.

Background  The Department’s Office of Environmental Management (DOE-EM) is responsible for the cleanup of the sites used by the federal government for nuclear weapons development and nuclear energy research.  DOE-EM cleanup involves retrieval, treatment, storage, transportation, and disposition of hundreds of different radioactive and hazardous solid and liquid wastes.  Low-level radioactive waste—which is defined by exclusion as waste that does not meet the statutory definitions for spent nuclear fuel, high-level radioactive waste, or transuranic waste—is physically and chemically diverse, ranging from lightly contaminated soils and building materials to highly irradiated nuclear reactor components.  It is the most volumetrically significant waste stream (millions of cubic meters) being generated by the cleanup program.

The NAS proceedings are available to interested stakeholders for free download at https://www.nap.edu/catalog/24715/.  For additional information, please contact Jennifer Heimberg, Senior Program Officer, Nuclear and Radiation Studies Board (NRSB), Board on Life Sciences (BLS), Board on Environmental Change and Society (BECS), NAS at (202) 334-3293 or at jheimberg@nas.edu.

Waste Management Accepting Abstracts & Fellow Award Nominations

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Abstracts are now being accepted for the Waste Management 2018 Conference, which will be held at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona on March 18-22, 2018.  This year’s conference theme is Nuclear and Industrial Robotics, Remote Systems and Other Emerging Technologies.

Background  The annual Waste Management Conference, presented by WM Symposia (WMS), is an international symposium concerning the safe and secure management of radioactive wastes arising from nuclear operations, facility decommissioning and environmental remediation, as well as storage, transportation and disposal and associated activates.  WMS was founded to provide a forum for discussing and seeking cost-effective and environmentally responsible solutions for the safe management and disposition of radioactive waste and radioactive materials.  WM2018 marks the 44th year of the conference and is expected to attract over 2,000 nuclear specialists from over 35 countries, presenting more than 500 papers in over 130 technical sessions.

Supporting Organizations  Supporting organizations include the American Nuclear Society (ANS), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation (IFNEC) and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development/Nuclear Energy Agency (OECD/NEA).  The conference is also organized in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

Abstract Submissions  WMS welcomes abstracts in nine topic areas related to nuclear waste management.  The submission site became available in mid-June 2017. To submit an abstract, interested parties will need to visit the WMS website at www.wmsym.org and login using a registered username and password.  The deadline for submission is Friday, August 11, 2017.  Please note, there is a limit of abstract submissions to two (2) per presenter, but no limit on the number of abstracts that may be co-authored.

Fellow Award Nominations  WMS is also accepting nominations for the conference Fellow Award.  Nominations must be submitted no later than August 11, 2017.  Nomination forms should be submitted to awards@wmarizona.org.  All questions related to the WMS Fellowship should be directed to Fred Sheil, Chair of the WM Board of Directors Honors & Awards Committee.  Sheil can be reached by phone at +44-19-46-813342 or by email at Fred@Sheil.myzen.co.uk.

The Call for Abstracts and the detailed Topic Listing are available online at www.wmsym.org.  For additional information on the Waste Management Conference, please call (480) 557-0263 or email to shelley@wmarizona.org.

Perma-Fix to Host 15th Nuclear Waste Management Forum

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On November 27-29, 2017, the 15th Perma-Fix Nuclear Waste Management Forum will be held in Nashville, Tennessee.  Registration details and forum hotel accommodation information will be released in the upcoming weeks.

Nuclear industry leaders that focus on the area of radioactive waste management attend this event.  Attendees learn information about the latest technologies and applications regarding waste characterization, packaging, treatment, transportation and disposition while sharing lessons learned that improve safety and efficiency for their projects.  This is an opportunity to network with experts from a variety of U.S. and international waste generator sites, government officials and other companies focused on waste management objectives.

For additional information, please contact Autumn Bogus at (865) 251-2088 or at abogus@perma-fix.com. 

Central Interstate Compact Commission to Hold Annual Meeting

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On June 20, 2017, the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission will hold its annual meeting.  The meeting will be held at the Capital Hotel, which is located at 111 West Markham Street in Little Rock, Arkansas.  The meeting is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. CDT.  Interested stakeholders may participate via teleconference by calling (888) 822-7517 and entering code 4495347.

The following items are on the draft agenda for the meeting:

1.  Call to Order and Roll Call (Chair)

2.  Introduction of Oklahoma’s Alternate Commissioner (Chair)

3. Administrator Report (Administrator)

4. Chair Report (Chair)

5. Commissioners Reports

  • Opportunity for each Commissioner to report on any activities in their states that may be of interest to the Commission.

6.  Approval of Minutes of November 17, 2016 Special Teleconference Meeting

  • Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
  • Questions/Discussion by Public
  • Roll Call Vote

7.  Ratify Action Taken on Export Applications

  • December 2016
  • January 2017
  • February 2017
  • March 2017
  • April 2017
  • May 2017
  • June 2017
    • Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
    • Questions/Discussion by Public
    • Roll Call Vote

8.  Resolution Regarding Export Authorizations

  • The Commission is proposing a resolution to authorize all low-level radioactive waste generators in the Compact region (AR, KS, LA, OK) to export their wastes to an appropriate disposal facility outside of the region without first applying to the Commission for such authorization.
    • Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
    • Questions/Discussion by Public
    • Roll Call Vote

9.  Revisions to Rules of the Commission Relating to Requests for Authorization to Export Waste – Policy Statement and Rule 1

  • This Agenda item will be considered only if the Resolution under Agenda Item 8 is approved.  This action will: (1) revise the Rule 1 Policy Statement to align with the Resolution and (2) suspend Rules 1.1 through 1.4 related to export applications and payment of application fees.  Rule 1.5 authorizing the Commission to enter into agreements with the United States, other Compacts, or individual states for the exportation or management of waste will not be affected.
  • Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
  • Questions/Discussion by Public
  • Roll Call Vote

10.  Revisions to Rule of the Commission Relating to the “Regional Waste Disposal Administrative Fee” – Policy Statement and Rule 10

  • This Policy Statement and Rule 10 establish an administrative fee for low-level radioactive waste disposed in a disposal facility located in the Central Interstate Compact region.  This action is to insert clarifying clauses and correct a couple of scrivener’s errors.
  • Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
  • Questions/Discussion by Public
  • Roll Call Vote

11.  Revisions to Rule 27 – Public Notice & Announcement Procedures

  • This action is to ensure alignment of Rule 27 with the Commission Bylaws.
  • Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
  • Questions/Discussion by Public
  • Roll Call Vote

12.  Review and Approve Commission’s FY 2018 Administrative Budget

  • Questions/Discussion by Commissioners
  • Questions/Discussion by Public
  • Roll Call Vote

13.  Set Date for November Special Teleconference Meeting and Date/Location for June 2018 Annual Meeting

14.  Executive Session for Personnel Matters – Administrator Review

15.  Adjourn

For additional information, please contact Kristie Valtierra, Administrator of the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission, at (402) 702-5220 or at admin@cillrwcc.org or visit their web site at www.cillrwcc.org.

NRC to Hold Fuel Cycle Information Exchange

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On June 13-14, 2017, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) will host the 11th Fuel Cycle Information Exchange at the agency’s headquarters in Rockville, Maryland.  This event enables NRC staff, licensees, international counterparts, members of the public and other stakeholders to discuss issues related to uranium enrichment and conversion, and nuclear fuel fabrication.  Online registration is now open.  Onsite registration will also be available during the conference.

Agenda Overview  On the morning of June 13, 2017, NRC Executive Director for Operations Victor McCree will deliver opening remarks and Eileen Supko, Principal at Energy Resources International, will give a keynote address.  The conference will also include discussions and presentations on safety culture, advanced fuels, small modular and advanced reactors, waste disposal, fees, operating experience, and cybersecurity.

Logistics  The conference will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:20 p.m. on June 13 and from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. on June 14.  It will be held in the NRC Auditorium.  A telephone bridge line has been set up for those who cannot attend the conference in person.  An operator will moderate the bridge line, allowing participants to ask questions at designated times.  Anyone choosing to phone in should call (888) 790-9948 and use passcode 3424316.

For additional information, please contact Maureen Conley of the NRC at (301) 415-8200. 

Midwest Compact Commission to Hold Annual Meeting

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On June 9, 2017, the Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission (MCC) will hold its annual meeting.  The meeting—which will be held by teleconference call—is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. CDT (11:00 a.m. for Indiana and Ohio).

The following items are on the draft agenda for the meeting:

  • call to order and roll call
  • review of the minutes of the June 28, 2016 meeting
  • review of the financial report
  • Chair’s report including the MCC website
  • discussion—the future of the Midwest Compact, including whether the Compact should continue to exist as it is now, dissolve or affiliate with another compact, or go in another direction;
  • consultant agreements
  • legal counsel proposal
  • accounting/audit proposal
  • website management proposal
  • adoption of 2017-18 budget
  • election of Chair and Vice-Chair
  • Executive Director resignation and replacement
  • other business
  • adjournment

For additional information, please contact Stanley York, Chair of the Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission, at (608) 267-4793 or at stanyork080@gmail.com or visit the Compact Commission’s web site at www.midwestcompact.org.

Northwest Compact Commission Hosts Meeting

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On June 8, 2017, the Northwest Interstate Compact on Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management will host a meeting beginning at 9:00 a.m. PDT in Helena, Montana.  The meeting will be held at the Radisson Colonial Hotel, which is located at 2301 Colonial Drive in Helena, Montana.

The following topics, among others, are on the meeting agenda:

  • Welcome and Introductory Remarks (Earl Fordham, Chair)
    • Introductions
  • Compact Business (Kristen Schwab, Executive Director)
    • Approve Minutes of June 21, 2016 Committee Meeting
  • Party States Reports (Committee Members)
  • US Ecology – Activities Overview (Mike Ault, General Manager, US Ecology Inc.)
  • Disposal Volume Summary for 2016 and for 2017 through May
  • 2017 Revenue Requirement
  • MTCA Investigation
  • Other Issues
  • Utah – Activities Overview (Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director, Utah Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control)
  • Legislation
    • EnergySolutions’ Activities Including Status of EnergySolutions’ Depleted Uranium Performance Assessment
  • Other Issues
  • Break
  • US Ecology MTCA Investigation (Ron Skinnarland, Washington State Department of Ecology)
    • Overview and Update
  • National and Regional Issues (Kristen Scwhab, Executive Director)
    • Import/Export License Applications
    • Texas Compact/Waste Control Specialists
    • Compact Updates
    • Other Issues
  • EnergySolutions – Activities Overview (Dan Shrum, Senior Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, EnergySolutions)
    • 2016 Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Volumes
    • Other Issues
  • Lunch
  • Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum’s Disused Sources Working Group (Gary Robertson, DSWG Technical Consultant)
    • Disused Sources Background
    • Disused Sources Current Status
    • Disused Sources Program Update
  • Transfer of Northwest Compact Activities (Earl Fordham, Chair)
    • Status Update
  • Update on Legal Issues (Kristen Mitchell, Compact Counsel, Washington State Attorney General’s Office)
    • Status Update
  • Break
  • Committee Business
  • Public Comment
  • Meeting Adjourned

For additional information, please contact Kristen Schwab, Executive Director of the Northwest Interstate Compact on Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management, at (360) 236-3232 or at Kristen.schwab@doh.wa.gov.

Southwestern Compact Commission Hosts 75th Meeting

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On May 16, 2017, the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission hosted its 75th meeting beginning at 9:00 a.m. CDT in the State of North Dakota.

The following topics, among others, were on the meeting agenda:

  • Call to Order
  • Roll Call
  • Welcome Remarks – Dave Glatt from the Governor’s Cabiner, North Dakota – and Introductions
  • Statement Regarding Due Notice of Meeting
  • Reports – Activity and/or Status
    • Commission Chair
    • Executive Director
    • Licensing Agency
    • Party States
  • Exportation
    • Ratification of Approved Petitions
  • Update and Action on Annual Audit RFP by Miers & Miers
  • Discuss Holding LLW Forum Spring 2018 Meeting – Consider Action Options
  • Amend Approved Budget
  • Public Comment
  • Future Agenda Items
  • Next Meeting – October 6, 2017
  • Adjournment

For additional information, please contact Kathy Davis, Executive Director of the Southwestern Compact Commission, at (916) 448-2390 or at swllrwcc@swllrwcc.org.

Southwestern Commission Hosts Workshops re Use of Rad Materials

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On May 10 and 12, 2017, the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission hosted two separate workshops in Northern and Southern California on the use and disposition of radioactive materials, including radioactive sealed sources and devices.

 

The following is the agenda for the workshops:

  •   Welcome and Introductions (9:00 – 9:20 a.m.)
  •   Southwestern Compact Vice Chair Donna Earley of Cedars Sinai (9:30 a.m. – 9:55 a.m.)
    • Earley will discuss medical uses of radioactive materials, including new therapeutic uses as well as experience with the disposal of Cs-137 irradiators and Co-60 gamma knife.
    • Earley has extensive knowledge and experience overseeing the Radiation Safety Programs and personnel of Cedars Sinai and the coordinating with local law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles for the safety and security of the Cedars Sinai Facility.
  •   Jeff Cromwell, Radioactive Waste Manager and Radioactive Shipment Manager, University of Berkeley
    • Cromwell will discuss waste management at the University of Berkeley along with some waste management challenges from some recent facility decommissioning projects.
    • What challenges have you had at your facility that you can share on decommissioning, shipments or closing out research projects-what are you doing with the waste?
  •   Morning Break (10:30 – 10:50 a.m.)
  •   Mike Albanese, Radiation Safety Officer for Qal-Tek (10:55 – 11:20 a.m.)
    • Albanese will discuss Qal-Tek’s U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Service License and its new Reutilization Program in a joint effort with the Southwestern Compact.
    • Outline of maximum time limits and requirements.
    • A petition will be required for disposal to Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) in Andrews, Texas.
    • How will this affect me?
    • Can I qualify for this program?
  •   Lunch Break (11:25 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.)
  •   Sherry Frenette, Technical Services Project Manager, WCS (12:20 – 12:45 p.m.)
    • Frenette will discuss WCS’s capabilities for treatment, storage and disposal of waste and answer any questions you may have concerning those capabilities, or the process for getting waste to WCS.
    • Frenette will also provide an update on the status of the application for spent fuel storage at the WS facility.
    • Frenette works in the Technical Services Department at WCS.  She helps commercial customers navigate the process for sending waste to all of the facilities at WCS.
  •   Leigh Ing, Executive Director, Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact (12:50 – 1:15 p.m.)
    • Ing will share the need for Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact (Texas Compact) import agreements and WCS contracts—they are different!
    • Ing will discuss information on requirements, brokers, small generator’s limits, and the processing time frames for the Texas Compact.
    • What are the annual limits set by the Texas legislators for non-compact waste?
    • Does Texas want our waste?
    • Will this change?
    • Is there enough space for the future?
    • How long can you afford to store?
  •   Afternoon Break (1:20 – 1:55 p.m.)
  •   Vern Rogers, EnergySolutions of Utah (1:40 – 2:05 p.m.)
    • Video of Zion Decommissioning, SONGS schedule for decommissioning, new services to be offered—Class A sealed sources, depleted uranium (DU) options, mixed waste and various processing programs offered.
    • What can we expect for the future of EnergySolutions?
  •   [Northern California] John Fassell, Chief for Inspection, Compliance & Enforcement, California Radiological Health Branch and [Southern California] Robert Greger, Senior Health Physicist, California Radiological Health Branch (2:10 – 2:35 p.m.)
    • When the inspector is at your door.
    • A presentation on state audits, reporting requirements, renewing a state license—does location matter, and safety requirements at your site.   Come with your questions!  This is an important resource for you.
  •   Adjourn (3:15 p.m.)

For additional information, please contact Kathy Davis, Executive Director of the Southwestern Compact Commission, at (916) 448-2390 or at swllrwcc@swllrwcc.org.

Texas Compact Activity, Disposal Reporting and Pending Legislation

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At the spring 2017 meeting of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) in Denver, Colorado on April 24-25, 2017, the Executive Director of the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (TLLRWDCC or Commission) provided the following information and overview related to Commission activities and operations.

Background

The Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact (Texas Compact) includes the State of Vermont and is not an agency of the State of Texas.  The TLLRWDCC is a “legal entity separate and distinct from the party states…”  The Commission must comply with its federal compact law and is charged with protecting the capacity of the compact facility for Texas and Vermont generators.

Limitations to Jurisdiction and Purview

The Texas Compact does not own or operate the compact facility, which is owned by the State of Texas and operated by Waste Control Specialists (WCS).  The Texas Compact does not set surcharges or charge fees of any type, nor does it determine licensing requirements or license the facility.  The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) licenses the compact facility and approves waste streams.  The following matters are outside of the TLLRWDCC’s purview:  high-level waste, transuranic waste, Greater-than-Class C waste, spent fuel storage, NORM or TENORM, site operations at the compact waste facility (TCEQ), and waste shipments (TCEQ and DSHS).

Imports and Exports

The TLLRWDCC authorizes imports and exports in alignment with Texas policy and law and ensures protection of capacity.  For imports, the Commission has developed an approach based on:  a policy to ensure maximum disposal of allowed curies; the need for flexibility based on the regulatory and industry hurdles generators/brokers encounter; and, a need for a fair and unbiased allocation of curie availability.  The TLLRWDCC supports exports for good cause.  As such, it will be conducting an analysis of exported quantities.

Irradiated Hardware

Given that irradiated hardware can have a significant impact on the amount of curies disposed at the compact facility, the TLLRWDCC will continue to approve import applications as it always has with the exception of irradiated hardware.  Under the Commission’s policies, irradiated hardware must be submitted as a separate import application.  All requests over 15,000 curies, if approved, will be issued conditionally.  Once the generator submits documentation that substantiates volume, curies and shipment date, the Commission will release conditionally authorized curies, if available on a first come, first served basis.  This approach has been adopted as policy that can be found on the Commission’s website.

Forms and Automation

The TLLRWDCC rules require the use of an Import Application Form—a.k.a. “Annex A.”  The form is currently available as a pdf on the Commission’s website.  In addition, the Export Application Form and Generator Authorization Form are also available on the website.  The Commission is beginning work to automate import and export processing.  This will require the import and export forms to be fillable.

Annual Reporting and Disposal Numbers

Annual Reports are available at http://www.tllrwdcc.org/reports-more/.  The 2016 Annual Report is more robust and includes:  listing of import agreements, volume and curies; listing of export agreements; and, fees generated.  Disposal numbers in volume and curies for imported waste and in-compact waste are available at http://www.tllrwdcc.org/reports-more/.

Legislative Activities

Because the Texas Compact receives funding through the State of Texas appropriation process, the status of the Compact as an agency presents confusion.  The Texas Compact is with working with the legislature to provide clarification to State of Texas employees that the Texas Compact is a “legal entity separate and distinct from the party states …”  During the current legislative session, two items—SB 1667 by Senator Seliger and HB 3946 by Representative Landgraf—have been filed as companion bills.  SB 1667 and HB 3946 relate to the nature, funding, and functions of the TLLRWDCC.

Management Rule

TLLRWDCC Commissioner Linda Morris chairs a committee that is charged with drafting rules for management of low-level radioactive waste in the Texas Compact.  These rules will have applicability in Vermont.  The scope of the rule will likely include only reporting requirements.  The rulemaking will include an informal comment period before instituting the formal process.

Workshops

In September 2016, the Texas Compact conducted its first workshop in Burlington, Vermont.  The workshop was geared toward Vermont generators.  The Texas Compact is considering doing a similar workshop for Texas generators, particularly small generators.  The compact will also consider workshops for larger generators, as may be needed.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

DOE and NRC to Hold Third Advanced Reactor Workshop

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On April 25-26, 2017, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) continued their joint workshop series on innovative reactor technologies in Bethesda, Maryland.  The workshop, which was open to the public, begin at 8:30 a.m. on April 25, 2017.  It was held at the Bethesda North Marriott in Bethesda, Maryland.  The workshop included presentations as well as structured and open discussions, using a facilitator.

“We are encouraging interested parties to continue discussing the most efficient and effective path forward to safely develop and deploy advanced reactors in the United States,” said Vonna Ordaz, Acting Director of the NRC’s Office of New Reactors.  “We expect to discuss topics such as modeling and testing innovative technologies, as well as how vendors might approach getting their designs approved for U.S. use.”

The NRC defines advanced reactors as those technologies using something other than water to cool the reactor core.  The NRC is currently discussing one such advanced design with a vendor considering applying for design certification.  The NRC remains available for early-stage discussion with other potential advanced reactor vendors.

For more information on the workshop, please contact the Nishka Devaser at (301) 415-5196 or at nishka.devaser@nrc.gov; John Segala at (301) 415-1992 or at john.segala@nrc.gov; Trevor Cook at (301) 903-7046 or at trevor.cook@nuclear.energy.gov; or, Tom Sowinski at (301) 903-0112 or at thomas.sowinski@nuclear.energy.gov.

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Meets

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On April 13, 2017, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The meeting, which was open to the public, was held in Conference Room 1015, Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Board Room, on the first floor of the Multi Agency State Office Building that is located at 195 North 1950 West in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the April 2017 Board meeting:

  1. Call to Order
  1. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the February 9, 2017 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)

III.    Underground Storage Tanks Update

  1. Administrative Rules
  1. Solid Waste Rules: Approval to proceed with formal rulemaking and public comment to remove paragraph R315-302-1(2)(a)(iii) that prohibits a new solid waste facility from being located within certain farmland classified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (Board Action Item)
  1. Solid and Hazardous Waste Rules: Approval to proceed with formal rulemaking and public comment to incorporate the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) hazardous waste generator improvement rule (promulgated on November 28, 2016 at 81 Federal Register 85,732) into R315-15, R315-260, R315-261, R315-262, R315-263, R315-264, R315-265, R315-266, R315-268, R315-270, R315-273, R315-301, R315-304-3 and R315-305-3 (Board Action Item)
  1. Director’s Report/ Legislative Update
  1. Open and Public Meetings Act, Utah Public Officers and Employees Ethics Act

VII.   Other Business

  1. Miscellaneous Information Item
  1. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting

VIII.  Election of Board Chair and Vice-Chair

  1. Adjourn

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.  The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.

 

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

 

Central Midwest Compact Commission Holds Spring Meeting

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On April 11, 2017, the Central Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission held its spring meeting beginning at 9:30 am CDT (Illinois)/ 10:30 am EDT (Kentucky).  The meeting was held at the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) in Springfield, Illinois.

The agenda for the meeting was as follows:

  • Call to Order
  • Adoption or Modification of the Agenda
  • Adoption of Minutes from the Annual Meeting on September 27, 2016
  • Executive Session
  • First Public Comment Period
  • Reports
  • Chairman and Host State Report and Acknowledgement of Agreed Mandated Responsibility

*    Illinois 45 ILCS 140

*    Kentucky 211.859

*    Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) Fall 2016 Meeting Update (Saratoga Springs, New York) and Disused Sources Working Group (DSWG) Update

  • Kentucky Report

*    Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material/ Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM/TENORM) Violation Update

*    TENORM – Status of Regulation Revision

  • Executive Assistant report
  • Second Public Comment Period
  • Other Business
  • Next Scheduled Meeting or Announcement of Special Meeting
  • Adjournment

For additional information, please contact Joseph Klinger, Chairman of the Central Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission, at (217) 836-3018 or at joe.klinger@illinois.gov.

Interested stakeholders may also go to the Central Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission web site at http://www.cmcompact.org.

NRC Issues Annual Assessments for Nation’s Nuclear Plants

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On March 3, 2017, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) announced that the agency has issued annual letters to the nation’s 99 commercial nuclear power plants operating in 2016 regarding their performance throughout the year.  All but three were in the two highest performance categories.

Overview

Of the 96 highest-performing reactors, 83 fully met all safety and security performance objectives and were inspected by the NRC using the normal “baseline” inspection program.

Thirteen reactors were assessed as needing to resolve one or two items of low safety significance.  For this performance level, regulatory oversight includes additional inspection and follow- up of corrective actions.  Plants in this level include:  Davis Besse (Ohio); Diablo Canyon 2 (California); Dresden 3 (Illinois); Ginna (New York); Grand Gulf (Mississippi); Hope Creek 1 (New Jersey); Monticello (Minnesota); Oyster Creek (New Jersey); Salem 2 (New Jersey); South Texas Project 1 and 2 (Texas); and, Vogtle 1 and 2 (Georgia).  Oyster Creek, as well as Vogtle 1 and 2, have resolved their identified issues since the reporting period ended and have transitioned to the highest performing level.

There were no reactors in the third performance category with a degraded level of performance.

Three reactors are in the fourth performance category.  Arkansas Nuclear One 1 and 2 require increased oversight because of two safety findings of substantial significance.  Pilgrim (Massachusetts) is in the fourth performance category because of long-standing issues of low-to-moderate safety significance.  Reactors in this category receive additional inspections to confirm the performance issues are being addressed.

Later this spring and summer, the NRC will host a public meeting or other event for each plant to discuss the details of the annual assessment results.  Details for each event will be announced separately.  In addition to the annual assessment letters, plants also receive an NRC inspection plan for the coming year.

Background

“These assessment letters are the result of a holistic review of operating performance at each domestic power reactor facility,” said Bill Dean, Director of the Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation.  “In addition to inspecting U.S. nuclear plants to verify that they are operating safely, the NRC continuously assesses their performance.  The letters help our stakeholders understand our plant performance assessments and how we address any identified performance deficiencies.”

Information on the NRC’s oversight of commercial nuclear power plants is available through the NRC’s webpage on the Reactor Oversight Process.  The NRC routinely updates information on each plant’s current performance and posts the latest information as it becomes available to the action matrix summary.

For additional information, please contact David McIntyre of the NRC at (301) 415-8200.

Draft Agenda Released for the Spring 2017 LLW Forum Meeting

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Embassy Suites Downtown Convention Center Hotel
Denver, Colorado on April 24-25, 2017

The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) has released the draft agenda for its spring 2017 meeting, which will be held at the Embassy Suites Downtown Convention Center Hotel in Denver, Colorado on April 24-25, 2017.

As a reminder, the discount rate hotel room block for the meeting closes in just three weeks on April 5, 2017.  There is limited space remaining in the discount room block.   Accordingly, interested stakeholders are encouraged to register and make hotel reservations for the meeting at your earliest convenience.

The Rocky Mountain Low-Level Radioactive Waste Board and Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission are co-sponsoring the meeting.

The meeting documents—including the meeting bulletin, registration form and draft agenda—have been posted to the LLW Forum’s web site at www.llwforum.org.  

 

Agenda Topics

The following is a list of agenda topics for the meeting:

  •  overview and analysis re Executive agency and Congressional transition and impacts on the nuclear industry;
  •  the National Academies’ low-level radioactive waste management and disposition workshop;
  • U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regulatory activities and updates including Part 61 rulemaking initiative;low-activity waste scoping study; rulemaking SECY re financial assurance for byproduct material; and, assessment for the low-level waste branch;
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) activities and updates including final revisions to National Emission Standards for Radon Emissions from Operating Mill Tailings; publication of final Protective Action Guides and Planning Guidance for Radiological Incidents; and, public comments and next steps re the 40 CFR Part 190 Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR);
  •  U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) activities and updates;
  • updates and activities re the Waste Control Specialists commercial and federal low-level radioactive waste disposal facility in Andrews County, Texas;
  • updates and activities re the Clive low-level radioactive waste disposal facility in Tooele County, Utah;
  • consideration of alternative options for the management of low activity waste;
  •     requirements for plans regarding waste minimization;
  •     tools to assist decision makers regarding low-level waste management;
  •     perspectives from the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) on the state of the commercial nuclear power industry;
  •     industry insights and perspectives regarding waste management and disposition;
  •     addressing abandoned cyclotrons and decommissioning in Colorado;
  • survey results re alternative technologies for irradiators and other radioactive sources and devices;
  • implementation of new Part 37 requirements and review of cyber-security for nuclear-related issues;
  • proposals to license Greater-than-Class C (GTCC) and transuranic waste cells and spent nuclear fuel storage in Texas;
  • past, present and future use of uranium in Colorado;
  •  development of a radiation response volunteer medical reserves corp unit;
  •   lack of oversight for management of exempt sealed radioactive sources;
  • the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors (CRCPD) Part S Working Group re suggested state regulations on financial assurance for sealed sources;
  • potential revisions to regulations or processes re Category 3 source protection and accountability; and,
  •  removal and packaging of Category 1 and 2 self-shielded devices.

Attendance

Officials from states, compacts, federal agencies, nuclear utilities, disposal operators, brokers/processors, industry, and other interested parties are invited and encouraged to attend.

The meeting is an excellent opportunity to stay up-to-date on the most recent and significant developments in the area of low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.  It also offers an important opportunity to network with other government and industry officials and to participate in decision-making on future actions and endeavors affecting low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.

Location and Dates

The spring 2017 LLW Forum meeting will be held on Monday, April 24 (9:00 am – 5:00 pm) and Tuesday, April 25 (9:00 am – 1:00 pm) at: 

Embassy Suites by Downtown Convention Center Hotel
1420 Stout Street
Denver, Colorado 80202

 

The hotel offers a gateway to Denver’s lively downtown scene.  Boasting a contemporary convention venue, the hotel is within walking distance of the best attractions in the downtown area.

Registration

All persons must pre-register for the meeting and pay any associated registration fees in order to be allowed entry.  Registration forms are needed in order to ensure that you receive a meeting packet and name badge.  Accordingly, interested attendees are asked to please take a moment to complete the registration form at your earliest convenience  You can submit the registration form electronically via the online link or print a hard copy and return it to the Administrator of the Rocky Mountain Board at the mailing address, e-mail or fax number listed at the bottom of the form.

The meeting is free for up to two individuals representing members of the LLW Forum.  Additional and non-member registration is $500, payable by check only to the “LLW Forum, Inc.”  (Credit card payments are not accepted.)

Reservations

Persons who plan to attend the meeting are strongly encouraged to make their hotel reservations and send in their registration forms as soon as possible, as we have exceeded our block at the last few meetings.

A limited block of hotel rooms has been reserved for Sunday, April 23rd and Monday, April 24th at the rate of $178.00 plus tax per night (for single/double occupancy).

To make a reservation, please call (800) 445-8667.  Please ask for the LLW Forum block in order to get the discounted meeting rate.

The deadline for reserving a room at the discounted rate is Wednesday, April 5, 2017.

Transportation and Directions

From Denver International Airport (DIA), one way taxi fare is available for approximately $70.00.  Another option is the train from DIA to Union Station downtown.  From Union Station, you can walk or take the 16th street mall shuttle the additional 1.2 miles to the hotel off of Stout Street.

For additional information, please contact Todd D. Lovinger, the LLW Forum’s Executive Director, at (754) 779-7551 or go to www.llwforum.org. 

Texas Compact Commission Holds February 2017 Meeting

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On February 23, 2017, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (Texas Compact Commission) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Austin, Texas.  The following items were on the meeting agenda:

  • call to order;
  • roll call and determination of quorum;
  • introduction of Commissioners, elected officials and press;
  • public comment;
  • consideration of and possible action on an amendment to an import agreement for importation of low-level radioactive waste from ThermoProcess;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications and proposed agreements for importation of low-level radioactive waste from EnergySolutions Bear Creek and RAM Services;
  • consideration of and possible action on an amendment to an exportation agreement for exportation of low-level radioactive waste from Bionomics TAMU Kingsville;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications for exportation of low-level radioactive waste from Bionomics Peleton;
  • discussion and consultation with legal counsel concerning pending litigation United States v. EnergySolutions, Inc. (Civil Action No.: 1:16-cv-01056-GMS) and responses to inquiries and requests from litigants in the litigation;
  • receive reports from Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) about recent site operations and any other matter WCS wishes to bring to the attention of the Texas Compact Commission;
  • receive reports from Texas Compact Commission committees including the Rules Committee (as Chaired by Commissioner Morris) and the Capacity Committee (as Chaired by Commissioner Weber);
  • Chairman’s report on Texas Compact Commission activities including reporting on fiscal matters to be taken by the compact and addressing personnel matters;
  • report from Leigh Ing, Executive Director of the Texas Compact Commission, on her activities and questions related to Texas Compact Commission operations;
  • discussion and possible changes of dates and locations of future Texas Compact Commission meetings in 2017; and,
  • adjourn.

The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code.  Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Meets

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On February 9, 2017, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the February 2017 Board meeting:

  1. Call to Order
  2. Introduction of New Assistant Attorney General Bret Randall
  3. Laura Lockhart Retirement
  4. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the January 12, 2017 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)
  5. Underground Storage Tanks Update
  6. Underground Storage Tank Rules
    1. Approval to File Five-Year Review Notices for Underground Storage Tank Rules: R311-200, R311-201, R311-202, R311-203, R311-204, R311-205, R311-206, R311-207, R311-208, R311-209,  R311-210, R311-211 and R311-212 (Board Action Item)
  7. VII.   Used Oil Program
  8. Final Adoption of Changes to Used Oil Rules: R315-15-13 (Board Action Item)
  9. VIII.  Legislative Update
  10. Other Business
  11. Miscellaneous Information Item
  12. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting
  13. Adjourn

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.  The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.

 

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Disused Sources Working Group Holds Winter Meeting

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On February 6-7, 2017, the Disused Sources Working Group (DSWG) of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) held a meeting in San Diego, California with organizational representatives of the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors (CRCPD), the Organization of Agreement States (OAS) and the Health Physics Society (HPS).

Agenda Items

The following items, among other things, were on the winter 2017 DSWG meeting agenda:

  • review and response to the recent Federal Register notice in which the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) announced that the agency is seeking input from licensees, Agreement States and the public to inform the staff’s assessment of potential revisions to regulations or processes requiring Category 3 source protection and accountability;
  • development and distribution of working group documents including educational materials for current and prospective licensees, source disposal costs and import/export authorities and requirements for the ten operating low-level radioactive waste compacts; and,
  • source calculation and methodology re number of sealed sources in the United States;
  • development of regional workshops for stakeholders interested in management and disposition of sealed sources and radioactive devices;
  • outreach by designated organizational liaisons and feedback received on the outstanding recommendations from the March 2014 DSWG report; and,
  • charting the next steps and a path forward.

For additional information and ongoing updates, interested stakeholders are encouraged to go to the DSWG web site at www.disusedsources.org.

Background

The LLW Forum is a non-profit organization of representatives appointed by Governors and compact commissions that seeks to facilitate state and compact implementation of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Policy Act of 1980 and its 1985 amendments, as well as to promote the objectives of regional low-level radioactive waste disposal compacts.

In September 2011, the LLW Forum formed the Disused Sources Working Group (DSWG) to develop recommendations from the states and compacts for improving the management and disposition of disused sources.

For additional information about the DSWG, please contact Project Director Todd D. Lovinger, Esq at (754) 779-7551 or at LLWForumInc@aol.com.

NRC to Review WCS Application re Spent Nuclear Fuel Storage Facility

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On January 26, 2017, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission announced that the agency has docketed and accepted for formal review an application from Waste Control Specialists (WCS) to build and operate a spent nuclear fuel Consolidated Interim Storage Facility (CISF) in Andrews, Texas.  The NRC’s decision follows an acceptance review to determine whether the application contains sufficient information for the agency to begin its formal review.

WCS is seeking to store 5,000 metric tons uranium of spent fuel received from commercial nuclear power reactors across the United States.

Overview

NRC’s review will proceed on two parallel tracks—one on safety issues and the other on environmental issues.  Both the safety and environmental reviews must be completed before the NRC makes a final licensing decision on the application.

In a letter to WCS dated January 26, 2017, the NRC set a schedule for its safety and environmental reviews.  The schedule sets a target of making a licensing decision by the third quarter of fiscal year 2019—assuming that WCS provides high-quality responses, on schedule, to any NRC requests for additional information.

Interested stakeholders will have 60 days from publication of a notice of docketing in the Federal Register, which will appear shortly, to submit requests for a hearing and petition to intervene in the licensing proceeding for the proposed facility.  Details on how to submit those requests and petitions will be in the Federal Register notice.

The NRC’s letter to WCS is available on the agency’s website at https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML1701/ML17018A168.pdf.

Public Meetings

The NRC will hold the following two public meetings near the site of the proposed CISF to take public comments on the scope of the environmental review:

  • Hobbs, New Mexico:  Lea County Event Center (5101 N. Lovington Highway) from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. MT on February 13, 2017
  • Andrews, Texas:  James Roberts Center (855 TX-176) from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT on February 15, 2017

Stakeholders that are interested in attending or speaking are encouraged to pre-register by calling (301) 415- 6957 no later than three days prior to the scheduled meetings.  The public may also register in person at each meeting.  The time allowed for each speaker may be limited, depending on the number of registered speakers.

The NRC is also planning to hold additional scoping meetings at the agency’s headquarters in Rockville, Maryland during the week following the local meetings.  Details for these meetings are still being finalized.

Information about the public meetings will be posted to the NRC public meetings schedule on the agency’s website at www.nrc.gov.

Submitting Comments

Interested stakeholders can submit comments on the scope of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the CISF as follows:

  • Federal Rulemaking Website: Electronic provide comments at regulations.gov
  • Mail:  Send comments to Cindy Bladey, Office of Administration, Mail Stop: OWFN-12 H08, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001

Written comments should refer to Docket ID NRC-2016-0231.  The NRC will accept public comments through March 13, 2017.

Background

On April 28, 2016, WCS filed an application seeking a 40-year license for a CISF to receive spent fuel from nuclear reactors for storage, pending final disposal.  (See LLW Notes, May/June 2016, pp. 16-17.)  Specifically, WCS is requesting authorization to construct and operate a CISF at the company’s 60.3 square kilometer (14,900 acre) site in western Andrews County, Texas.  On this site, WCS currently operates facilities that process and store certain types of radioactive material—mainly low-level radioactive waste and mixed waste.  The facility also disposes of hazardous and toxic waste.

According to the application, WCS plans to construct the CISF in eight phases.  Phase one of the CISF would be designed to provide storage for up to 5,000 metric tons uranium (MTU) of spent nuclear fuel received from commercial nuclear power reactors across the United States.  WCS proposes that small amounts of mixed oxide spent fuels and Greater-Than-Class C (GTCC) low-level radioactive wastes also be stored at the CISF.  WCS stated that it would design each subsequent phase of the CISF to store up to an additional 5,000 MTU.  A total of up to 40,000 MTU would be stored at the site by the completion of the final phase.  Each phase would require NRC review and approval.

WCS would receive canisters containing spent nuclear fuel from the reactor sites.  Once accepted at the site, WCS would transfer them into onsite dry cask storage systems.  WCS plans to employ dry cask storage system technology that has been licensed by the NRC pursuant to 10 CFR Part 72 at various commercial nuclear reactors across the country.  According to WCS, the dry cask storage systems proposed for use at the CISF would be passive systems (i.e., not relying on any moving parts) and would provide physical protection, containment, nuclear criticality controls and radiation shielding required for the safe storage of the spent nuclear fuel.  WCS also states that the dry cask storage systems would be located on top of the concrete pads constructed at the CISF.

For additional information, please contact Maureen Conley of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission at (301) 415-8200.

Registration Opens for NRC’s 2017 Regulatory Information Conference

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The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has opened registration for its 29th annual Regulatory Information Conference (RIC), which is scheduled for March 14-16, 2017.  The conference will be held at the Bethesda North Marriott, which is located at 5701 Marinelli Road in Bethesda, Maryland.

Overview

Approximately 3,000 people are expected to attend the RIC including industry executives, representatives from state governments, non-governmental organizations, individual community members, and representatives from dozens of foreign countries.  The conference is an opportunity for attendees to discuss issues related to the safety and security of commercial nuclear facilities and current regulatory activities.

The RIC program will feature NRC Chair Stephen Burns as the keynote speaker.  Additional program highlights will include plenary sessions with Commissioner Kristine Svinicki and Commissioner Jeff Baran.

NRC’s Executive Director for Operations Victor McCree will deliver remarks.  Bill Dean, Director of NRR, will give welcome and introductory remarks.  This year’s special guest speaker is President and Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations Robert Willard. Located in Atlanta, INPO is an independent, nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote the highest levels of safety and reliability—to promote excellence—in the operation of nuclear electric generating plants.

Other technical sessions will address significant domestic and international issues such as cybersecurity, subsequent license renewal, advanced and small modular reactors, spent fuel research activities, recent reactor material issues and the reactor oversight process.

Background

The NRC’s offices of Nuclear Reactor Regulation and Nuclear Regulatory Research jointly host the RIC.  The conference is open to the public.  Registration is required, but there is no registration fee.

The deadline for online registration is February 28, 2017.  Early registration is encouraged; however, onsite registration will also be available during the conference.

Additional RIC information, including a copy of the agenda and online registration links, is available on the NRC website at www.nrc.gov.  

LLW Forum Announces Details re Fall 2017 LLW Forum Meeting

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The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) is pleased to announce that our fall 2017 meeting will be held on Monday, October 16 (9:00 am – 5:00 pm) and Tuesday, October 17 (9:00 am – 1:00 pm) at: 

Hilton Alexandria Old Town Hotel
1767 King Street
Alexandria, Virginia

Located in the historic, vibrant King Street neighborhood, the Hilton Alexandria Old Town hotel is one of the most convenient hotels in Alexandria, Virginia for business and leisure travelers visiting the Washington, DC metropolitan area.  The hotel is just steps away from King Street Metro station and close to Reagan National Airport.  Downtown DC attractions and government buildings are minutes away by metro.

The Southeast Compact Commission for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management and the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission are co-sponsoring the meeting.

If you have questions or require additional information, please contact Todd D. Lovinger, Esq.—Executive Director of the LLW Forum and Project Director of the Disused Sources and Part 61 Working Groups (DSWG/P61WG)—at (754) 779-7551 or at LLWForumInc@aol.com. 

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Meets

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On November 10, 2016, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The meeting, which was open to the public, was held in Conference Room 1015, Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Board Room, on the first floor of the Multi Agency State Office Building that is located at 195 North 1950 West in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the November 2016 Board meeting:

  1. Call to Order
  1. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the October 13, 2016 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)

III.    Underground Storage Tanks Update

  1. Underground Storage Tank Rules
  1. Final Adoption of Changes to the Underground Storage Tank Rules R311-200, R311-201, R311-202, R311-206 and R311-212 (Board Action Item)
  1. Approval of a Change in Proposed Rule for R311-203 to incorporate comments made by the Environmental Protection Agency (Board Action Item)
  1. Low-Level Radioactive Waste Section
  1. EnergySolutions LLC request for a site-specific treatment variance from the Hazardous Waste Management Rules. EnergySolutions seeks authorization to receive Cemented Uranium Extraction Process Residues for disposal. (Information Item Only)
  1. Administrative Rules
  1. EnergySolutions’ Petition to Initiate Rulemaking to repeal and reenact R313-25 and adopt 10 CFR Part 61 by reference (Information Item Only)

VII.   X-Ray Program

  1. Exemption Request for the Sensus SRT-100 machine from the requirements of R313-30-3(3), R313-30 -3(4), R313-30-3(5) and R313-30-3(6) (Board Action Item)
  1. Letter from Sensus Requesting the Exemption
  1. Comments from Patients or Relatives of Patients in Support of the Exemption
  1. Comments from the Medical Community in Support of the Exemption
  1. Comments from the Medical Community in Opposition to the Exemption

VIII.  Other Business

  1. Miscellaneous Information Item
  1. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting
  1. Adjourn

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.

The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.

 

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

NAS Hosts LLW Management and Disposition Workshop

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On October 24-25, 2016, the Nuclear and Radiation Studies Board, Division on Earth and Life Studies, of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine hosted a low-level radioactive waste management and disposition workshop.  The workshop was held at the Keck Center of the National Academies, which is located at 500 Fifth Street NW in Washington, DC.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management (DOE-EM) is responsible for the cleanup of the sites used by the federal government for nuclear weapons development and nuclear energy research.  DOE-EM cleanup involves retrieval, treatment, storage, transportation, and disposition of hundreds of different radioactive and hazardous solid and liquid wastes.

Low-level radioactive waste—which is defined by exclusion as waste that does not meet the statutory definitions for spent nuclear fuel, high-level radioactive waste, or transuranic waste—is physically and chemically diverse, ranging from lightly contaminated soils and building materials to highly irradiated nuclear reactor components.  It is the most volumetrically significant waste stream (millions of cubic meters) being generated by the cleanup program.

The workshop considered similarities between successful case studies, in which unique disposition pathways have been developed to address low-level radioactive wastes, and explored ways to extend these similar characteristics to problematic wastes—i.e., low-level radioactive wastes currently without a clear disposition pathway.

Specifically, the workshop explored:

  •   the key physical, chemical, and radiological characteristics of low-level radioactive waste that govern its safe and secure management (i.e., packaging, transport, storage) and disposition, in aggregate and for individual waste-streams; and,
  •   how key characteristics of low-level waste are incorporated into standards, orders, and regulations that govern the management and disposition of low-level radioactive waste in the United States and in other major waste-producing countries.

For additional information about the meeting, please go to http://dels.nas.edu/Upcoming-Workshop/Level-Radioactive-Waste-Management/AUTO-6-58-82-D?bname=nrsb.

Texas Compact Commission Holds September 2016 Meeting

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On September 29, 2016, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (Texas Compact Commission) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Burlington, Vermont.  The following is an abbreviated overview of the agenda for the meeting:

  • call to order;
  • roll call and determination of quorum;
  • introduction of Commissioners, elected officials and press;
  • public comment;
  • Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin will address the Commission;
  • discussion by Entergy Vermont Yankee regarding the closure and decommissioning of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications and proposed agreements for importation of low-level radioactive waste from Tennessee Valley Authority; RAM Services; Qal-Tek; Alaron Veolia; PG & E; SNC – Plant Vogtle; Duke – Brunswick; Duke – Brunswick (irradiated hardware); and, Dominion Kewaunee;
  • consideration of and possible action on petitions and proposed orders for exportation of low-level radioactive waste from Triad Isotopes and the University of Vermont;
  • receive reports from Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) about recent site operations and any other matter WCS wishes to bring to the attention of the Texas Compact Commission;
  • receive reports from Texas Compact Commission committees including the Rules Committee (as Chaired by Commissioner Morris) and the Capacity Committee (as Chaired by Commissioner Weber);
  • consideration and possible action to authorize the Chair to evaluate and potentially select alternative and/or additional service providers for IT and website related activities—initial scope will include maintenance of present website, evaluation of alternative platforms and implementation of workflow automation tools with an initial budget not to exceed $5,000;
  • Chairman’s report on Texas Compact Commission activities including reporting on fiscal matters to be taken by the compact and addressing personnel matters;
  • report from Leigh Ing, Executive Director of the Texas Compact Commission, on her activities and questions related to Texas Compact Commission operations;
  • discussion and possible changes of dates and locations of future Texas Compact Commission meetings in 2016 and 2017; and,
  • adjourn.

 

The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code.  Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Holds September Meeting

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On September 8, 2016, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The meeting, which was open to the public, was held in Conference Room 1015, Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Board Room, on the first floor of the Multi Agency State Office Building that is located at 195 North 1950 West in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the September 2016 Board meeting:

  1. Call to Order
  2. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the August 15, 2016 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)

III.    Underground Storage Tanks Update

  1. Underground Storage Tank Rules
  2. Approval to Proceed with Formal Rulemaking and 30-Day Public Comment Period for Changes to the Underground Storage Tank Rules R311-200, R311-201, R311-202, R311-203, R311-206 and R311-212 (Board Action Item)
  1. X-Ray Program
  1. Exemption Request for the Sensus SRT-100 Machine from the Requirements of R313-30-3(3), R313-30-3(4), R313-30-3(5) and R313-30-3(6) (Board Action Item)
  2. Report to Legislature
  3. Review of Comments and Final Approval of the Evaluation of Closure, Post-Closure and Perpetual Care for Hazardous and Radioactive Waste Treatment and Disposal Facilities, Report to Legislature (Board Action Item)

 

VII.   Other Business

  1. Miscellaneous Information Item
  2. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting

 

VIII.  Adjourn

 

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.  The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Southeast Compact Commission’s Administrative Committee Holds Teleconference Meeting

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On September 6, 2016, the Administrative Committee of the Southeast Compact Commission for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management held a teleconference meeting beginning at 10:00 a.m. ET.  The following was the agenda for the Administrative Committee meeting:

  •   Introduction and Remarks (Donna Hodges, Chair)
  •   Public Comment Pertaining to Agenda Items Only (Public)
  •   Approval of Minutes from June 22, 2016 (Committee Members)
  •   Consideration of Renewal of the Contract with the Executive Director to Continue Employment (Committee Members)
  •   Other Business (Committee Members)
  •   Public Comment (Public)
  •   Adjourn

For additional information, please contact the Southeast Compact Commission at (919) 380-7780 or at secc@secompact.org.  

Utah Waste Management & Radiation Control Board Holds August Meeting

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On August 15, 2016, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the August 2016 Board meeting:

  1. Call to Order
  1. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the July 14, 2016 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)

III.    Underground Storage Tanks Update

  1. Proposed Non-Substantive Change to Underground Storage Tank Rule R311-210 (Information Item Only)
  1. X-Ray Program
  1. Approval of Mammography Imaging Medical Physicist (MIMP) in Accordance with UCA 19-6-104(2)(b) (Board Action Item)
  1. Administrative Rules
  1. Approval to Proceed with Formal Rulemaking and 30-Day Public Comment Period for Repeal of Rule R313-27, “Medical Use Advisory Committee” (Board Action Item)

VII.   Report to Legislature

  1. Review of Comments on the Evaluation of Closure, Post-Closure and Perpetual Care for Hazardous and Radioactive Waste Treatment and Disposal Facilities, Report to Legislature (Board Action Item)

VIII.  Other Business

  1. Miscellaneous Information Item
  1. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting
  1. Adjourn

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.

The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

 

Texas Compact Commission Holds August 2016 Meeting

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On August 11, 2016, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (Texas Compact Commission) held a regularly scheduled meeting in Austin, Texas.

The following is an abbreviated overview of the agenda for the Texas Compact Commission meeting.  Persons interested in additional detail are directed to the formal agenda themselves.

  • call to order;
  • roll call and determination of quorum;
  • introduction of Commissioners, elected officials and press;
  • public comment;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications and proposed agreements for importation of low-level radioactive waste from Xcel – Prairie Island; PerkinElmer; Entergy – Palisades; Thermo Process Instruments; Bionomics; and, Entergy – Riverbend;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications on petitions and proposed orders for exportation of low-level radioactive waste from Alcon; Texas Children’s Hospital; and, Texas A&M;
  • receive reports from Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) about recent site operations and any other matter WCS wishes to bring to the attention of the Texas Compact Commission;
  • receive reports from Texas Compact Commission committees including the Rules Committee (as Chaired by Commissioner Morris) and the Capacity Committee (as Chaired by Commissioner Weber);
  • reconsideration of and possible action to adopt the Texas Compact Commission’s annual budget estimates for FY 2018 and FY 2019 pursuant to Article VI, Section Two of the Bylaws in light of the Legislative Appropriations Request to the State of Texas Legislative Budget Board for FY 2018 and FY 2019;
  • consideration, evaluation and possible action with respect to contract employees Leigh Ing, Andrew Tachovsky, Diane Fulmer and Eric Woomer;
  • consideration, evaluation and possible action with respect to the renewal, extension or dismissal of the contract with DigITech Web Design;
  • consideration and possible action to authorize the Chair to execute a contract, not to exceed $25,000, with an attorney to assist in matters associated with the laws and operations of interstate compacts;
  • Chairman’s report on Texas Compact Commission activities including reporting on fiscal matters to be taken by the compact and addressing personnel matters;
  • report from Leigh Ing, Executive Director of the Texas Compact Commission, on her activities and questions related to Texas Compact Commission operations;
  • discussion and possible changes of dates and locations of future Texas Compact Commission meetings in 2016 and 2017; and,
  • adjourn.

The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code.  Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Executive Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org. 

Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board Holds July Meeting

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On July 14, 2016, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the July 2016 Board meeting:

  1. Call to Order
  2. Approval of Meeting Minutes for the June 9, 2016 Board Meeting (Board Action Item)
  3. Underground Storage Tanks Update
  4. Administrative Rules
    1. Approve Change in Proposed Rule (CPR) for R315-319, Management of Coal Combustion Residuals Requirements in Landfills and Surface Impoundments and to Set an Effective Date of September 1, 2016 (Board Action Item)
    2. Final Adoption of Proposed Changes to Solid Waste Rule R315-310, Permit Requirements for Solid Waste Facilities and to Set an Effective Date of July 15, 2016 (Board Action Item)
    3. Approval to Proceed with Formal Rulemaking and 30-Day Public Comment Period for Repeal of Rule R313-27, “Medical Use of Advisory Committee” (Board Action Item)
  5.  Hazardous Waste Section
    1. Proposed Stipulation and Consent Order Between the Board and Heckmann Woods Cross (Board Action Item)
  6. Other Business
    1. Evaluation of Closure, Post-Closure and Perpetual Care for Hazardous and Radioactive Waste Treatment and Disposal Facilities; Report to Legislature (Information Item Only)
    2. Miscellaneous Information Item
    3. Scheduling of Next Board Meeting
  7. Adjourn

 

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state.  The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state.  A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

 

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.

 

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.

Utah Proposes Hazardous Waste Rule Changes

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On July 10, 2016, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board approved amendments to R315-261 to be published in the Utah Bulletin and commence a 30-day public comment period.

The proposed amendments, among other things, change the word “variance” to “excluded” in several sections of the rule.

The public comment period started on July 2, 2016 and ended on July 31, 2016.

The proposed modifications to the rule can be viewed at http://www.deq.utah.gov/Laws_Rules/dshw/ProposedHWRules.htm.

For additional information about the Hazardous Waste Rules, please contact Ralph Bohn of the State of Utah at rbohn@utah.gov or at (801) 536-0212 or at (801) 536-0259.

Four New Members Named to Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards

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In late June 2016, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) announced that the agency has appointed four new members to the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards (ACRS) for four-year terms effective June 12, 2016.

  • The ACRS—which is comprised of a group of experienced technical experts—advises the Commission, independently from the NRC staff, on safety issues related to the licensing and operation of nuclear power plants, as well as issues of health physics and radiation protection.

The new ACRS members include:

  •   Margaret Sze-Tai Chu: 
 Chu is a consultant to international and domestic clients on nuclear waste management, nuclear fuel cycle analysis, nonproliferation technologies and nuclear materials management.  She has more than 30 years of experience working on issues related to the nuclear fuel cycle, with an emphasis on risk assessment and performance assessment as applied to nuclear waste management.  Chu was Director of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management from 2002 to 2005.  Before that, she had a long career with Sandia National Laboratory that included directing the lab’s Nuclear Waste Management Center and acting as Senior Manager of the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) program at Sandia. 
Chu holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Purdue University and a Doctorate in Physical Chemistry from the University of Minnesota.  She serves on the DOE Nuclear Energy Advisory Committee and the National Academies’ Nuclear and Radiation Studies Board.  Chu is the second woman to serve on the ACRS, and this marks the first time two women have served on the committee simultaneously.

 

  •   Walter Kirchner:  Kirchner retired in June 2015 from the Argonne National Laboratory.  While at Argonne, he served as an Institutional Liaison Manager following, analyzing, and advising Argonne’s leaders on science and technology policy and programmatic developments in the DOE, other federal agencies and Congress.  He began his career as a Reactor Operator/Engineering Officer on the N.S. Savannah before joining the staff at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL).  During his 29 years at LANL, he held division and group leader line management positions in construction project management, defense programs, nuclear reactor design and safety projects, and applied energy research and development activities.  Kirchner’s technical expertise is in nuclear reactor design, thermal-hydraulics and nuclear reactor safety.  He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Engineering from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

 

  •   Jose March-Leuba:  March-Leuba is the Principal of MRU, which specializes on measurements, regulatory and uncertainty analysis, and an Associate Professor in the Nuclear Engineering Department of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.  He began his career at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he did research into noise analysis and dynamic modeling, as well as running tests to determine the stability of commercial boiling water reactors.  He also developed and installed instrumentation in Russian facilities to monitor the down-blending of highly enriched uranium.  During his 37-year career as a Nuclear Engineer, March-Leuba developed expertise in reactor thermal hydraulics and dynamics, reactor instrumentation and control and protection systems, software development and testing, and instrumentation development for international safeguards.  March-Leuba has a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering from the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia in Spain, as well as an M.S. and Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

 

  •   Matthew Sunseri:  Sunseri is an Independent Nuclear Industry Consultant with more than 35 years of experience in the safe operation of large commercial reactors.  Prior to starting his own executive consulting practice, he was President and Chief Executive Officer of Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation.  Sunseri has a wide range of experience in the operation, maintenance, engineering, oversight and security of the nation’s commercial nuclear power fleet.  He started his career as a Nuclear Engineer assigned to the construction, licensing, startup and operation of the Comanche Peak nuclear power plant.  Sunseri earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering from Texas A&M University and is a graduate of the Advanced General Management Program at Northwestern University and the Directors Institute at Emory University.

All member biographies are available on the NRC web site at www.nrc.gov.

For additional information, please contact Maureen Conley of the NRC at (301) 415-8200.

Southeast Compact Commission Elects New Officers

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On June 23, 2016, the Southeast Compact Commission for Low-level Radioactive Waste Management elected the following new officers at its 108th Business Meeting in Atlanta, Georgia.

  •   Debra Shults:  The Commission elected Debra Shults as Chair, which duties will include presiding at all Commission meetings, appointing the membership of all committees of the Commission, officially representing the Commission, and performing all other duties that are normally performed by a presiding officer.  Shults has served as an Alternate Commissioner from the State of Tennessee since 1989 and as the Commission’s Vice-Chair since 2004.  She has over thirty years of professional experience in managing environmental programs in the state.  In 2010, Shultz was appointed as the Director of the Division of Radiological Health (DRH)) in the Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC).  She serves as the Governor’s appointed State Liaison Officer to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC); the designee to receive advance notifications regarding shipments of certain radioactive materials per 10 CFR 37; and, as Treasurer of the Organization of Agreement States (OAS).
  •   Steve Harrison:  The Commission elected Steve Harrison as Chair-Elect.  His duties will include representing the Commission on behalf of the Chair when needed; preparing to assume the position of Chair to assure continuity in the leadership of the Commission; and, assumption of the position of Chair if the current Chair is unable to perform her duties.  As Chair-Elect, Harrison will serve as the Vice-Chair and will automatically become the Chair after serving a two-year term as Chair-Elect.  Harrison has served as one of the two Commissioners from the Commonwealth of Virginia since 2014.  He has served as the Director of the Commonwealth’s Office of Radiological Health in the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) since 2012.  Harrison joined VDH in 2003 where he has served as Assistant State Planning Coordinator, State Hospital Coordinator, Strategic National Stockpile and Exercise Coordinator, and Emergency Preparedness & Response’s Central Region Planner.  Prior to joining VDH, Harrison worked for Dominion Resources for 23 years, where he performed nuclear emergency planning and conducted radiological surveillance and testing.
  •   Paul Burks:  The Commission elected Paul Burks as Secretary/Treasurer, which duties will include supervising and controlling the funds of the Commission and ensuring that the minutes of all Commission meetings are recorded, prepared, and distributed to each member of the Commission.  Burks has represented the State of Georgia since 1984.  He has served on various committees of the Commission and as Chair of the Administrative Committee.  After serving nearly 31 years in Georgia state government, Burks retired in 2006 as the Executive Director of the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA).  Since 2008, he has worked on a consulting and part-time basis for the Carl Vinson Institute of Government of the University of Georgia.  He currently serves as State Services Liaison for the Institute.

The Southeast Compact for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management is an agreement among six states—Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Virginia—to provide for the responsible management of the region’s low-level radioactive waste.  The Southeast Compact Commission oversees administration of the Compact.

For additional information, please contact Ted Buckner, Executive Director of the Southeast Compact Commission for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management, at (919) 380-7780 or at tedb@secompact.org or go to the Southeast Compact Commission’s web site at www.secompact.org.

Registration Open for the Fall 2016 LLW Forum Meeting

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Registration is now open for the fall 2016 Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) meeting, which will be held at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Saratoga Springs Hotel on November 7-8, 2016.  Interested stakeholders are encouraged to register and make hotel reservations for the meeting at your earliest convenience, as there is limited space available in our discount room block.  The New York State Energy and Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) is sponsoring the meeting.

The meeting documents—including bulletin and registration form—have been posted to the LLW Forum’s web site at www.llwforum.org.

Attendance

Officials from states, compacts, federal agencies, nuclear utilities, disposal operators, brokers/processors, industry, and other interested parties are invited and encouraged to attend.

The meeting is an excellent opportunity to stay up-to-date on the most recent and significant developments in the area of low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.  It also offers an important opportunity to network with other government and industry officials and to participate in decision-making on future actions and endeavors affecting low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.

Location and Dates

The fall 2016 LLW Forum meeting will be held on Monday, November 7 (9:00 am – 5:00 pm) and Tuesday, November 8 (9:00 am – 1:00 pm) at:

Embassy Suites by Hilton Saratoga Springs
86 Congress Street
Saratoga Springs, New York 12866

Located in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, the Embassy Suites is walking distance to the Saratoga Heritage Area Visitor’s Center, Congress Park, the Canfield Casino, and Broadway for its restaurants and shopping.

Registration

All persons must pre-register for the meeting and pay any associated registration fees in order to be allowed entry.  Registration forms are needed in order to ensure that you receive a meeting packet and name badge.  Accordingly, interested attendees are asked to please take a moment to complete the registration form at your earliest convenience and return it Cecilia Snyder of the LLW Forum at the address, e-mail or fax number listed at the bottom of the form.

The meeting is free for up to two individuals representing members of the LLW Forum.  Additional and non-member registration is $500, payable by check only to the “LLW Forum, Inc.”  (Credit card payments are not accepted.)

Reservations

Persons who plan to attend the meeting are strongly encouraged to make their hotel reservations and send in their registration forms as soon as possible, as we have exceeded our block at the last few meetings.

A limited block of hotel rooms has been reserved for meeting attendees for Sunday (November 6) and Monday (November 7) at the prevailing federal per diem rate (which is currently $120/night) plus tax/single or double.  A limited number of rooms are available at this rate for one day prior to and one day following the meeting, subject to availability.

To make a reservation, please call 1-800-HILTONS and ask for a room in the “LLW Forum block” at the Embassy Suites Saratoga Springs or use the following dedicated link:  http://embassysuites.hilton.com/en/es/groups/personalized/A/ALBESES-LLW-20161105/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG

In order to receive the discounted rate, please make your reservation by October 6, 2016.

Transportation and Directions

Saratoga Springs is a 30-minute drive from the Albany International Airport.  A taxi from the airport to the hotel is a minimum estimated charge of $50/each way.   Driving directions from both airports can be found at http://embassysuites3.hilton.com/en/hotels/new-york/embassy-suites-by-hilton-saratoga-springs-ALBESES/maps-directions/index.html.  Parking at the hotel is free.

For additional information, please contact Todd D. Lovinger, the LLW Forum’s Executive Director, at (754) 779-7551 or go to www.llwforum.org.

Rocky Mountain Board to Hold Annual and Regular Meetings

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On June 27, 2016, the Rocky Mountain Low-Level Radioactive Waste Board will hold both a Regular Meeting and an Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado.  The meetings—which will be held at the Westin Denver International Airport—are scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m.

The following items are on the draft agenda for the Regular Meeting: approval of minutes of the Regular Meeting on October 15, 2015 and notice of telephonic meeting on January 13, 2016; update from the Clean Harbors Regional Facility; update from URENCO USA; update from International Isotopes; discussion of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) oil and gas issues; update on national developments; Executive Director’s report re fiscal status/investment summary, permit fee revenue for 2015 and 2016; expenditure/budget comparison; and, status of volumes authorized for export and disposal in 2015 and 2016.

The following items are on the draft agenda for the Annual Meeting: election of Officers and consideration of fiscal year 2016-2017 budget.

Interested parties and the public are invited to attend the meetings and an opportunity will be provided for public comment.

For additional information, please contact Leonard Slosky, Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Board, at (303) 825-1912 or lslosky@rmllrwb.us.

Central Interstate Compact Commission to Hold Annual Meeting

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On June 14, 2016, the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission will hold its annual meeting.  The meeting—which will be held at the Hilton Hotel in Shreveport, Louisiana—is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. CDT.

The purpose of the meeting is to take necessary action and discussion on proposed changes to the By-Laws and Rules, reports, meeting minutes, export applications, export fee schedule (Rule 1), administrative budget, election of Chairman for fiscal year 2016-2017, and all other business to come before the Commission.

An agenda, kept continuously, is available by contacting the Commission’s office or going to their web page.

For additional information, please contact Rita Houskie, Administrator of the Central Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission, at (402) 476-8247 or at rita@cillrwcc.org or visit their web site at www.cillrwcc.org.

Southwestern LLRW Compact Commission to Meet

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April 7, 2016 in San Diego, California

On April 7, 2016, the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission will host its 72nd meeting beginning at 2:00 pm PDT at the Marriott Courtyard Hotel in San Diego, California.

The following topics, among others, are on the meeting agenda:

  • call to order
  • roll call
  • welcome and introductions – introduce new Commissioner from South Dakota
  • statement regarding due notice of meeting
  • reports, status and/or activity

–     Commission Chair

–     Executive Director

–     licensing agency

–     party states

  • exportation

–     ratification of approved petitions

  • update on compact correspondence
  • Thermo Fischer update on sealed sources
  • report and update from the Committee for Export Issues (re: sealed sources – Qal Tek tour)
  • amend approved budget
  • public comment
  • future agenda items
  • next meeting date and location (October 7, 2016 at Hyatt Regency in Sacramento, California)
  • adjournment

Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting and comment on specific agenda items as the Commission considered them.  The total public comment time on each agenda item will be limited to 15 minutes.  Written material will also accepted.  A 15-minute public comment period will be provided near the end of the meeting at which time members of the public are invited to bring before the Commission issues relating to low-level radioactive waste but which are not on the agenda.

For additional information, please contact Kathy Davis, Executive Director of the Southwestern Compact Commission, at (916) 448-2390 or at swllrwcc@swllrwcc.org

NRC Hosts Public Meeting re Post-Fukushima Screening of “Other External Hazards” at U.S. Nuclear Power Plants

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On April 5, 2016, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) staff met with the public to discuss and solicit comments regarding the results of the staff’s preliminary screening of natural events other than earthquakes and flooding (ADAMS Accession No. ML16039A054).  This screening is part of the agency’s efforts to learn from the issues raised by the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011.

During the meeting, NRC staff described the process used to screen natural events other than seismic and flooding events.  The results of that screening will identify which hazards (e.g., extreme drought, heavy snow loads, tornadoes and hurricanes) should be evaluated further to determine if additional regulatory action is needed.

Comments on the assessment can be e-mailed to JLD_Public.Resource@nrc.gov by April 12, 2016.  NRC staff will consider, to the extent possible, comments received after that date.

The final results of the staff’s screening will be provided to the NRC Commission by the end of May 2016.  The staff’s final assessment (including a determination of whether additional regulatory action is needed) will be provided by the end of the year.

NRC’s White Paper titled, “NRC Staff Assessment of Fukushima Tier 2 Recommendations Related to Evaluation of Natural Hazards Other Than Seismic and Flooding,” can be found at http://pbadupws.nrc.gov/docs/ml1603/ML16039A054.pdf.

To view the agenda for the meeting, go to http://pbadupws.nrc.gov/docs/ml1608/ML16084A538.pdf.

For additional information, please contact Scott Burnell of the NRC at (301) 415-8200.

Registration is Now Open for the Spring 2016 LLW Forum Meeting

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Marriott Hotel in Park City, Utah from April 13-14, 2016

Optional Site Tour of Clive Facility on April 12, 2016

The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum (LLW Forum) is pleased to announce that registration is now open for our spring 2016 meeting, which will be held at the Park City Marriott Hotel on April 13-14, 2016.  Please mark your calendars accordingly and save the date!

The meeting will include an optional site tour of the EnergySolutions’ Clive low-level radioactive waste disposal facility for interested stakeholders on the afternoon of April 12, 2016.

There will also be a meeting of the Disused Sources Working Group (DSWG) for members & invited guests from 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 14, 2016, and from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 15, 2016.

Interested stakeholders are encouraged to register and make hotel reservations for the meeting at your earliest convenience, as there is limited space available in our discount room block.

The meeting is being co-sponsored by the State of Utah’s Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control (DWMRC) and EnergySolutions.

The meeting documents—including bulletin and registration form—have been posted to the LLW Forum’s web site at www.llwforum.org. The meeting agenda will be posted in the coming weeks.

Attendance

Officials from states, compacts, federal agencies, nuclear utilities, disposal operators, brokers/processors, industry, and other interested parties are invited and encouraged to attend.

The meeting is an excellent opportunity to stay up-to-date on the most recent and significant developments in the area of low-level radioactive waste management and disposal. It also offers an important opportunity to network with other government and industry officials and to participate in decision-making on future actions and endeavors affecting low-level radioactive waste management and disposal.

Location and Dates

The spring 2016 LLW Forum meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 13 (approx. 9:00 am – 5:00 pm) and Thursday, April 14 (approx. 9:00 am – 1:00 pm) at:

Park City Marriott Hotel
1895 Sidewinder Drive
Park City, Utah 84060

The Park City Marriott Hotel is located in the Prospector Square area of Park City amid the scenic backdrop of a mountain community. A complimentary local shuttle to the Utah Olympic Park, Factory Stores at Park City or Old Town Main Street services the hotel.

Optional Site Tour

Meeting attendees are invited to participate in an optional tour of the EnergySolutions Clive facility on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 12. The Clive facility is located approximately 80 miles west of Salt Lake City, just south of I-80.

A bus will be provided by EnergySolutions and will leave from the Park City Marriott at noon.

Registration

All persons must pre-register for the meeting and pay any associated registration fees in order to be allowed entry. Registration forms are needed in order to ensure that you receive a meeting packet and name badge. Accordingly, interested attendees are asked to please take a moment to complete the registration form at your earliest convenience and return it to Cecilia Snyder of the LLW Forum at the address, e-mail or fax number listed at the bottom of the form.

The meeting is free for up to two individuals representing members of the LLW Forum. Additional and non-member registration is $500, payable by check only to the “LLW Forum, Inc.” (Credit card payments are not accepted.)

Reservations

Persons who plan to attend the meeting are strongly encouraged to make their hotel reservations and send in their registration forms as soon as possible, as we have exceeded our block at the last few meetings.

A limited block of hotel rooms has been reserved at a discount rate of $118 per night plus tax, for Monday, April 11, for meeting attendees participating on the optional tour of Clive. A larger block of rooms at the same rate has been reserved for Tuesday, April 12, and Wednesday, April 13, for regular meeting attendees. A limited number of rooms are available at the discounted rate for 3 days prior to and after the meeting, subject to availability.

To make a reservation, please go to www.parkcitymarriott.com and enter special group code “LLWLLWA” or call 1-800-228-9290 and ask for a room in the Low-Level Waste block.

In order to receive the discounted rate, please make your reservation by March 20, 2016. Please note that there is a seven (7) day advanced notice requirement for cancellation of reservations to avoid a penalty.

Transportation and Directions

The Park City Marriott is located approximately 35 miles from the Salt Lake International Airport. The hotel does not provide shuttle service from and to the airport.

Shuttle service is available by reservation from Park City Shuttle (435-649-2227 or www.parkcityshuttle.com), Park City Transportation (800-637-3803 or www.parkcitytransportation.com), or All Resort Express (1-800-457-9457 or www.allresort.com).

For additional information, please contact Todd D. Lovinger, the LLW Forum’s Executive Director, at (754) 779-7551 or go to www.llwforum.org.

Registration Opens for NRC’s 2016 Regulatory Information Conference

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Registration is now open for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC’s) 28th annual Regulatory Information Conference (RIC). The conference is being held from March 8-10, 2016 at the Bethesda North Marriott located at 5701 Marinelli Road in Bethesda, Maryland. The NRC’s offices of Nuclear Reactor Regulation and Nuclear Regulatory Research jointly host the RIC. The conference is free and open to the public, but registration is required.

Approximately 3,000 people are expected to attend the RIC including industry executives, representatives from state governments, non-governmental organizations, individual community members, and representatives from dozens of foreign countries. The conference is an opportunity for attendees to discuss issues related to the safety and security of commercial nuclear facilities and current regulatory activities.

The program features NRC Chair Stephen Burns as the keynote speaker. Additional program highlights include plenary sessions with Commissioners Kristine Svinicki, William Ostendorff and Jeff Baran. NRC’s Executive Director for Operations, Victor McCree, will give remarks. Bill Dean, Director of NRC’s Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation, will give welcome and introductory remarks.

Highlights of this year’s RIC include two sessions titled, “25 Years of NRC’s Principles of Good Regulation” and “Project Aim: Accomplishments and Next Steps.” Other technical sessions will address significant domestic and international issues such as cyber-security, subsequent license renewal, advanced and small modular reactors, spent fuel research activities and the reactor oversight process.

The conference agenda and online registration links are now available on the NRC web site at www.nrc.gov. The deadline for online registration is February 23, 2016. Early registration is encouraged; however, onsite registration will also be available during the conference.

For additional information, please contact Stephanie West of the NRC at (301) 415-8200.

Texas Compact Commission to Meet in Austin on February 4, 2016

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Agenda Items Include Discussion re Proposed Import Approval Approach and Reduction of Curie Amounts Previously Authorized

On February 4, 2016, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (Texas Compact Commission) will hold a regularly scheduled meeting. The meeting, which is scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m., will be held in Room E1.028 of the Texas Capitol located in Austin, Texas.

Links to View Meeting

The links to view the meetings at the Texas Capitol are:

Agenda

The following is an abbreviated overview of the agenda for the Texas Compact Commission meeting. Persons interested in additional detail are directed to the formal agenda themselves.

  • call to order;
  • roll call and determination of quorum;
  • introduction of commissioners, elected officials and press;
  • public comment;
  • discussion and possible action with respect to ensuring payments and reimbursements from the Texas State Treasury to vendors, contractors, and other persons to whom the Texas Compact Commission is indebted;
  • discussion and consideration of and possible action on the limitation of authorization of disposal of curie amounts to ensure maintenance of the curie limit for the compact facility as specified in Texas Health and Safety Code (THSC) 401.207(e) including a reduction of curie amounts previously authorized;
  • consideration of and possible action on requests for amendment to agreements for importation of low-level radioactive waste from the Arizona Public Service; Entergy Fitzpatrick; and, Philotechnics;
  • consideration of and possible action on an application and proposed agreement from Entergy Operations, Inc.—River Bend Station for importation of low-level radioactive waste whereby 40,000 curies of the originally requested 80,000 curies was continued from the Texas Compact Commission meeting that was held on October 1, 2015;
  • consideration of and possible action on applications and proposed agreements for importation of low-level radioactive waste from Florida Power & Light Turkey Point; Entergy Pilgrim Station; Susquehanna Nuclear; NextEra Seabrook; and, RAM Services;
  • consideration of and possible action on a petition and proposed order for exportation of low-level radioactive waste from Bionomics TAMU EH&S; Bionomics TAMU NSC; and, Philotechnics Pet Net Solutions;
  • receive reports from Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) about recent site operations and any other matter WCS wishes to bring to the attention of the Texas Compact Commission;
  • receive reports from Texas Compact Commission committees including the Rules Committee (as chaired by Commissioner Morris) and the Capacity Committee (as chaired by Commissioner Weber);
  • Chairman’s report on Texas Compact Commission activities including reporting on fiscal matters to be taken by the compact and addressing personnel matters;
  • report from Leigh Ing, Consulting Supervisory Director of the Texas Compact Commission, on her activities and questions related to Texas Compact Commission operations;
  • discussion and possible changes of dates and locations of future Texas Compact Commission meetings in 2016; and,
  • adjourn.

Background

The Texas Compact Commission may meet in closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code. Texas Compact Commission meetings are open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Texas Compact Commission Consulting Supervisory Director Leigh Ing at (512) 305-8941 or at leigh.ing@tllrwdcc.org.

LLW Forum Sponsors Panel for Waste Management 2016 Conference

Posted on by MidwestCompact

The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Forum, Inc. (LLW Forum) has organized a panel for the Waste Management 2016 Conference titled, Hot Topics and Emerging Issues in US Commercial Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management. Panel 16 will focus on emerging issues in commercial low-level radioactive waste management in the United States from the perspective of representatives of the LLW Forum. State, federal and industry officials will share their views on a variety of timely and significant topics including:

  •   the proposal to license a disposal cell for Greater-than-Class C (GTCC), GTCC-like and Transuranic waste through means other than deep geologic disposal at the Waste Control Specialists (WCS) facility in Texas—Charles Maguire, Director of the Radioactive Materials Division at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ);
  •   an initiative to develop implementation guidance for the Branch Technical Position on Concentration Averaging and Encapsulation (CA BTP)— Lisa Edwards, Senior Program Manager at the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI);
  •   status of the proposed rule to amend 10 CFR Part 61, Licensing Requirements for Land Disposal of Radioactive Waste— Gregory Suber, Chief of the Low-Level Waste Branch at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC);
  •   the depleted uranium performance assessment, license and permit updates, and current waste disposal volumes and types at the Clive facility in Utah— Dan Shrum, Senior Vice-President of Regulatory Compliance at EnergySolutions; and,
  •   broker and processor perspectives on the management and disposition of disused sources— John McCormick, Vice-President at Bionomics, Inc.

The Waste Management 2016 Conference will be held at the convention center in Phoenix, Arizona from March 6-10, 2016. The LLW Forum-sponsored Panel 16 is scheduled to be held in Room 103AB from 1:30 – 3:10 p.m. on Monday afternoon—March 7, 2016.

As a reminder, registration rates for the Waste Management 2016 Conference are scheduled to increase on February 7, 2016.

Additional information on the Waste Management 2016 Conference can be found at www.wmsym.org or by contacting the Waste Management office at (480) 557-0263.

Workshop Scheduled for February 2-4, 2016 re Using Robotic Technologies at Nuclear Power Plants

Posted on by MidwestCompact

From February 2-4, 2016, the International Workshop on the Use of Robotic Technologies at Nuclear Facilities will be held in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in conjunction with its U.S. and foreign counterparts is sponsoring the workshop, which will include the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s Nuclear Energy Agency; the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management (DOE/OEM); the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate, Office of Standards; the United Kingdom’s Atomic Energy Authority; and, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. The American Nuclear Society (ANS), ASTM International and IEEE Robotics and Automation Society are also collaborating on the workshop.

The workshop is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m. on February 2, 2016 at the Green Auditorium on the NIST campus at
100 Bureau Drive in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Interested stakeholders must register to attend the meeting and pay the associated $71.00 registration fee.

The workshop will cover existing and potential future uses of robotic technologies in safety applications and activities at nuclear facilities. The workshop will examine topics including how robots can evaluate plant systems; how robots can locate and recover radioactive material; and, how non- nuclear applications can be adapted to nuclear situations. The workshop will include discussion of lessons learned from historic nuclear applications and experiences (e.g., Three Mile Island, Sellafield, and Fukushima Daiichi); ongoing research; and, other relevant applications (e.g., NASA’s Martian rovers).

For additional information, please contact Scott Burnell of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission at (301) 415-8200.

NRC Update on Common Prioritization and Re-Baselining (Project AIM)

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On January 14, 2016, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) will hold a public meeting and teleconference to provide an update on Common Prioritization and Re-Baselining of NRC Activities (Project AIM Initiative) since the September 1, 2015 public meeting to solicit input from stakeholders on the agency’s work. This input assisted the agency in evaluating what activities can be shed (stopped), performed with fewer resources, or performed with a different priority, while still fulfilling its regulatory mission in a manner consistent with the NRC’s Principles of Good Regulation and its Organizational Values.

The meeting is scheduled from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. in Room 01C05 of NRC Three White Flint North at 11601 Landsdown Street in Rockville, Maryland. Interested stakeholders that are unable to attend the meeting in person may participate via teleconference by calling 1-888-972-9342 and entering pass code 6813340.

The agenda for the meeting will include welcome and introductory remarks; overview of comments received; activities completed and in progress; next steps; public questions and answers; summary and closing comments; and, adjournment. NRC’s Office of the Executive Director for Operations will participate in the meeting.

For additional information, please contact Rani Franovich at (301) 287-3533 or at rani.franovich@nrc.gov or Gina Davis at (301) 415-5776 or at gina.davis@nrc.gov.

For additional information, please go to http://meetings.nrc.gov/pmns/mtg?do=details&Code=20151893.

Utah Waste Management & Radiation Control Board Holds January 2016 Meeting

Posted on by MidwestCompact

On January 14, 2016, the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board held a regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 1:30 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, Utah. The meeting, which was open to the public, was held in the Multi Agency State Office Building in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The following items, among others, were on the agenda for the Board meeting: call to order; approval of the meeting minutes for the December 10, 2015 Board meeting (Board Action Item); underground storage tanks update; hazardous waste rules including approval to proceed with formal rulemaking and 30-day public comment period for proposed Hazardous Waste Rules R315-103, R315-124, R315-260, R315-261, R315-262, R315-263, R315-264, R315-265, R315-266, R315-268, R315-270, and R315-273 (Board Action Item) and approval to proceed with formal rulemaking and 30-day public comment period for repeal of Hazardous Waste Rules R315-1, R315-2, R315-3, R315-4, R315-5, R315-6, R315-7, R315-8, R315-9, R315-12, R315-13, R315-14, R315-16, and R315-50 (Board Action Item); presentation on the X-Ray Program; other business including a miscellaneous information item and the next Board meeting; and, adjournment.

The Board—which is appointed by the Utah Governor with the consent of the Utah Senate—guides development of Radiation Control policy and rules in the state. The Board holds open meetings ten times per year at locations throughout the state. A public comment session is held at the end of each meeting.

Copies of the Utah Waste Management and Radiation Control Board meeting agendas and packet information can be found at http://www.deq.utah.gov/boards/waste/meetings.htm.

For additional information, please contact Rusty Lundberg, Deputy Director of the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, at (801) 536-4257 or at rlundberg@utah.gov.