South Bruce Prepares Report on Potential Nuclear Waste Site

UPDATE: The Municipality of South Bruce is urgently preparing a report to assess the potential for a second nuclear waste repository in Canada, as the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) seeks sites for deep geological storage of radioactive waste. This significant development comes in the wake of the NWMO’s recent discussion document released in June, which outlines their strategy for site selection, set to begin in 2028.

The NWMO is actively engaging with Canadians and Indigenous Peoples for feedback to refine its process. Earlier this month, South Bruce councillors instructed staff to review the NWMO’s document and generate a report. However, officials stress that this does not indicate an official interest in hosting the repository but aims to provide lessons learned from previous discussions.

In December, the NWMO confirmed its selection of the Ignace area in northwestern Ontario for the first repository, prompting South Bruce, a previous finalist, to explore its options. The proposed financial agreement for South Bruce could yield $418 million over a 138-year period, reflecting the area’s potential importance in the nuclear waste management landscape.

In an October 2024 referendum, nearly 70 percent of South Bruce’s population participated, with a narrow margin of just 78 votes favoring the project’s advancement. The local community’s engagement highlights the urgent need for resolution on nuclear waste management, especially as the Saugeen Ojibway Nation continues to express concerns about hosting such sites.

The NWMO’s second repository will primarily contain intermediate and non-fuel high-level waste, including components used in nuclear reactors and materials for medical isotopes. As new nuclear reactors are considered for Canada, this repository may eventually store used nuclear fuel as well.

Geologically, the South Bruce site has favorable conditions for long-term containment, as confirmed by a 2022 NWMO report. Yet, public opposition remains a significant hurdle, notably from the Protecting Our Waterways – No Nuclear Waste group. The Saugeen Ojibway Nation has announced plans for a moratorium on nuclear projects unless legacy issues are addressed, further complicating the discussion.

Craig MacBridge, the NWMO’s manager of public and media relations, stated, “The option agreements NWMO held have been terminated or expired. We cannot disclose any specific details regarding the agreements or timing of any dispositions.” He emphasized that nothing from the previous selection process disqualifies South Bruce from expressing interest in the new repository.

As the NWMO embarks on a two-year public engagement process, the urgency for community input and discussions intensifies. Residents are encouraged to participate and share their views during this critical time. For more information on the discussion document and engagement process, visit the NWMO website or contact them directly at [email protected].

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as the implications for South Bruce and surrounding communities remain profound.