Saugeen Shores | The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO)

The community of Saugeen Shores entered the site selection process by formally expressing interest in learning about the project in 2012. This expression of interest triggered studies to explore the potential suitability of geology while the community learned more about the project and reflected on its interest in it.

In January 2014, we concluded Preliminary Assessment (Step 3: Phase 1) studies in the area. Early findings indicated there was limited potential to meet the geoscientific criteria required to host a used nuclear fuel repository.

In light of these findings, Saugeen Shores is no longer a focus of study in the site selection process.

Information detailing assessment work we completed in Saugeen Shores through steps one to three of the site selection process is contained below.

Step 1: NWMO Initiates the Process

The NWMO formally initiated the site selection process in May 2010.

The process began with a broad program to provide information, answer questions and build awareness about the project. Awareness-building activities are designed to continue throughout the site selection process.

In Step 1, we provided general information to those who requested it. We began assessment activities in Step 2: Initial Screening only after individual communities formally expressed an interest in learning more.

Step 2: Initial Screening

In May 2012, Saugeen Shores’ Mayor and Council passed a resolution requesting an initial screening of the community's potential suitability to host the project. This screening took us about three months to complete and involved a review based on readily available information about the area and its geology.

We encouraged communities that passed the initial screening to begin learning more about the project. We provided an initial briefing and invited representatives to take a tour of an interim storage facility for used nuclear fuel. We also encouraged communities to meet with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission to learn about the regulatory framework that will govern the project.

Saugeen Shores’ initial screening was completed in September 2012. It did not identify any obvious conditions that would exclude the Saugeen Shores area from further consideration in the site selection process.

Initial Screening - Saugeen Shores - Summary Report PDF | 441 KB
Initial Screening - Saugeen Shores - Full Report PDF | 11733 KB

Step 3: Phase 1 - Desktop Studies and Engagement

In May 2013, Saugeen Shores' Mayor and Council passed a resolution asking the NWMO to initiate a Preliminary Assessment (Step 3: Phase 1) of the community's potential suitability to host the project.

In January 2014, we concluded Preliminary Assessment studies in the area. Early findings indicated there was limited potential to meet the geoscientific criteria required to host a used nuclear fuel repository.

We identified the Ordovician Cobourg Formation, at a depth of 500 metres, as the preferred host rock for the repository if it were located within this region. Saugeen Shores contains a number of constraints that greatly reduce the prospect for finding areas that are large enough for hosting the repository’s surface and underground facilities.