Three Northwestern Ontario communities are moving to the next stage as Canada seeks a long-term burial solution for nuclear waste.
Starting this month small fixed-wing aircraft will conduct aerial geophysical studies over Hornepayne, Ignace and Schreiber, as well as Creighton, Sask.
The three Ontario communities were among 22 who expressed initial interest with the Nuclear Waste Management Organization to potentially house a deep geological repository, that when constructed will safely contain and isolate Canada’s spent nuclear fuel.
Seven communities have been eliminated after the initial stage. Fifteen others, including Nipigon, Manitouwadge and White River, will continue on to the next phase of study.
Ear Falls, Wawa and Red Rock were among the seven communities that have been removed from further study during the Phase 1 assessments.
The NWMO says several more years of study will be needed before a site can be chosen. The organization adds a site won't be picked without extensive consultation in each community, as well as nearby First Nations and other surrounding municipalities.
