Participate in an information session or webinar, or email or mail us your comments
The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) is inviting local and regional residents and those interested in the deep geological repository for Canada’s used nuclear fuel to provide input on the Initial Project Description. Engaging in feedback opportunities ensures that the project reflects the values, needs and concerns of people it may affect.
Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and the Township of Ignace agreed to move into the regulatory decision-making phase as potential host communities for a deep geological repository for Canada’s used nuclear fuel.
The Initial Project Description is the first of many steps in the rigorous licensing process for nuclear facilities, including engaging with Indigenous Peoples and local and regional residents.
“We are excited to begin the next phase of Canada’s plan for the safe, long-term management of used nuclear fuel,” said Allan Webster, NWMO Vice-President of Regulatory Approvals. “This rigorous regulatory decision-making process will further strengthen the public’s understanding of the safety of the repository and our commitment to protect the health, safety and security of people and the environment.”
There are several ways that people can provide input, including participating in information sessions, registering for a webinar or submitting written feedback.
Ignace information sessions
Each session will have a presentation about the Initial Project Description, followed by a moderated discussion.
- Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Learn More Centre, 304 Main Street, Ignace
- Friday, July 25, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Upper Curling Hall, 200 Beaver Street, Ignace
Dryden information sessions
Drop-in session
- Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Native Friendship Centre, 74 Queen Street, Dryden
Presentation about the Initial Project Description, followed by a moderated discussion.
- Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Dryden Regional Training and Cultural Centre, 100 Casimir Avenue, Dryden
Webinars
Webinars are open to all who are interested in the project. The same information will be shared at both webinars. Please register for your preferred time using the links below.
Written feedback
A summary of the Initial Project Description is available, along with a feedback prompt guide. You can submit comments to RegulatoryFeedback@nwmo.ca or the contact us page on our website. Comments will also be accepted by mail addressed to:
NWMO — IPD summary feedback
22 St. Clair Avenue East, Fourth Floor
Toronto, ON M4T 2S3
Comments are accepted until Friday, Aug. 22, 2025.
The NWMO continues to prioritize engagement with First Nations in the proposed siting area.
What is an impact assessment?
The purpose of an impact assessment in Canada is to help ensure projects are planned in a way that protects people and the environment. It is a tool used to look at the positive and negative effects a project might have. It also helps gather information from different groups and experts so that better decisions can be made. The goal is to support projects that are safe for the environment, respectful to communities and good for the future.
Our priority is protecting people and the environment. The results of our impact assessment analyses will guide the design of the project, including measures to minimize or offset any potential effects. The ongoing monitoring and community engagement aspects of an impact assessment will continue to help ensure that the project is safe and protects human health, the environment and the rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Canada’s plan for a deep geological repository represents decades of research, development, alignment with Indigenous Knowledge, and demonstration of technologies and techniques.
A deep geological repository is internationally accepted as the preferred method to manage used nuclear fuel, with similar projects proposed, approved or under construction in Finland, Sweden, Switzerland and France.
The NWMO will respect Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation’s sovereignty and work to align NWMO-led regulatory work with Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation’s RAAP (Regulatory Assessment and Approval Process). It is a sovereign regulatory process that will be developed and implemented by Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, emphasizing protection and stewardship of land, water and all Creation, and will respect and honour its traditional governance systems.
Keep in touch
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