Project Operations
Environmental Studies

Environmental Studies ensures that all aspects of the Project follow the state and federal rules protecting the area's natural surroundings. The experts who support this work are trained in such fields as chemistry, biology, hydrology, geology, and engineering disciplines. A large part of their effort is understanding and recording the site's normal conditions -- background and natural radiation, weather patterns, and plant and animal life.

One of the group's functions is obtaining permits for work that may disturb the natural surface or create dust. Before any work begins, however, the staff surveys the site to identify any threatened species or items of historical and cultural importance. They review all designs for new construction to meet environmental regulations. As the work is performed, the staff inspects the site to assure the work follows the various permits.

Environmental Studies also records baseline, or normal, site conditions to compare with similar data in the future. For example, they measure background radiation levels at the site. The staff also logs typical weather conditions, such as temperature, rainfall, and wind speed and direction. They work with groups such as Site Management and Repository Design.

Project activities may impact animal and plant life at the site. The staff monitors and evaluates these impacts. They also comply with the Endangered Species Act and move desert tortoises (a threatened species) to similar natural environments.

After the Project shuts down, the area must be returned to its original desert condition as closely as possible. The law requires this process, called reclamation. Planning for, and showing how, to reclaim disturbed areas is another responsibility of this group. They have already developed and successfully applied these procedures at Yucca Mountain.

Environmental Studies also writes guidelines for hazardous materials. This task includes specifying storage locations and supervising the cleanup of any spills.

Much of the information this group collects helps them develop examples of possible accidents for emergency planning. For example, measurements of prevailing winds can show areas likely to be affected by airborne materials. The staff then applies this information to help write emergency response plans and procedures.

Since 1985, Environmental Studies has worked to understand the potential impact of the Project. Their activities are critical to documenting and preserving the area's natural surroundings.

 

Additional Information:
Why Yucca Mountain?	History of nuclear waste program
Who's watching us?	Project Fact Sheets
Project Operations	Transportation
Project Databases	Employment Opportunities

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