Challenge the reliance on 'matrix porosity' (0.45%) as the primary indicator for radionuclide retardation and request the inclusion of fracture network hydraulic conductivity as a specific Valued Component indicator.
Strategic Rationale
"The text cites the low porosity of the rock core as a primary safety feature for retarding radionuclide movement. However, in the Canadian Shield, groundwater and contaminants primarily move through fractures, not the solid rock matrix. Relying solely on matrix porosity could drastically underestimate the speed at which contaminants might reach the surface environment. Correcting this methodology is essential to accurately predict long-term safety for the lands Melgund residents use for traditional activities."
Source Context
Understanding the Impacts of Nuclear Waste on our Community
This digital archive houses the public comments submitted to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada regarding Project 88774: The Nuclear Waste Management Organization Deep Geological Repository (DGR) for Canada's Used Nuclear Fuel Project. The impact assessment is led jointly by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. This archive preserves community perspectives, concerns, and observations shared during the assessment process, particularly in relation to Melgund Township, Northwestern Ontario and the communities of Dyment and Borups Corners who are the closest and most impacted of all in the process.