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NUREG-0902 . 4 SeualySei Site Suitability, Selection and Characterization Branch Technical Position -- Low-Level Waste Licensing Branch U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Com mission Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards D. Siefken, G. Pangbum, R. Pennifill, R. J. Starmner Reprinted July 1986

NUREG-0902, Site Suitability, Selection, and Characterization

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Page 1: NUREG-0902, Site Suitability, Selection, and Characterization

NUREG-0902. 4

SeualySei

Site Suitability, Selectionand Characterization

Branch Technical Position -- Low-Level Waste Licensing Branch

U.S. Nuclear RegulatoryCom missionOffice of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards

D. Siefken, G. Pangbum, R. Pennifill, R. J. Starmner

Reprinted July 1986

Page 2: NUREG-0902, Site Suitability, Selection, and Characterization

NUREG-0902

Site Suitability, Selectionand Characterization

Branch Technical Position -- Low-Level Waste Licensing Branch

Manuscript Completed: March 1982Date Published: April 1982

D. Siefken, G. Pangburn, R. Pennifill, R. J. Starmer

Division of Waste ManagementOffice of Nuclear Material Safety and SafeguardsU.S. Nuclear Regulatory CommissionWashington, D.C. 20555

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UNITED STATES NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION

LOW-LEVEL WASTE LICENSING BRANCH

TECHNICAL POSITION - SITE SUITABILITY,

SELECTION, AND CHARACTERIZATION

Background

The Atomic Energy Act of 1954 and the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974give the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) the responsibility for thelicensing and regulation of commercial nuclear facilities from thestandpoint of public health and safety. The NRC is also responsible toassure that these commercial.nuclear facilities comply with the NationalEnvironmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969. The licensing requirements fornear-surface disposal of low-level radioactive wastes are in the proposedrule, 10 CFR Part 61. The licensing requirements related toenvironmental protection are in 10,CFR Part 51.

With passage of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Policy Act of 1980,Congress mandated that each state is responsible for the safe disposal oflow-level radioactive wastes generated by non-defense sources within itsboundaries and encouraged the states to form interstate compacts, subjectto the approval of Congress, for the purpose of establishing and.operating regional low-level radioactive.waste disposal sites. The NRCis aware that in'itial steps have been taken which willlead todevelopment of new sites for such disposal. In order to provide timelyassistance in this process,, the NRC is issuing this technical positionpaper on site suitability requirements, the site selection process, andsite characterization activities for a near-surface disposal'facility.

Introduction

The proposed rule, 10 CFR Part 61, defines a-near-surface disposalfacility as a land disposal facility-injwhich radioactive waste isdisposed of in or within the upper 15-20 meters (or greater) of theearth's surface. The proposed rule specifies licensing procedures,performance objectives, and minimum technical requirements in thesubject areas of site suitability, site design, facility operations,site closure, environmental monitoring, waste classification, waste

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characteristics, waste labeling, land ownership, and institutionalcontrols for near-surface disposal facilities. The performanceobjectives in Subpart C of the proposed 10 CFR Part 61 relate to theperformance of the near-surface disposal facility as a total system.The minimum technical requirements have been placed on individualcomponents within the system to assure that the total system will meetthe performance objectives.

This technical position paper addresses three subject areas that areintegral to the licensing of a near-surface disposal facility forlow-level radioactive wastes. The three subject areas, in the order ofpresentation, are the site suitability requirements in the proposed 10CFR Part 61, the site selection process as related to the considerationof alternatives (NEPA requirements), and site characterization activitiesto be performed in order to develop the site-specific data needed tosupport a license application and environmental report.

This technical position paper is intended to provide both an explanationof the staff's interpretation of the site suitability and NEPArequirements and recommendations on site characteristics which will aidin demonstration of the suitability of the proposed site. In addition,the technical position paper provides early-on guidance to futureapplicants to assist them in their site selection and sitecharacterization studies. This' paper reflects the staff's position, atthis time, on these subjects. If an applicant wishes to consideralternative approaches to site selection and site characterization, thestaff will review these on a case-by-case basis.

Site Suitability Requirements

Site suitability requirements for land disposal of low-level radioactivewaste are presented in Section 61.50 of the proposed rule. Several ofthe site suitability requirements identify site characteristics whichwill be present at any proposed near-surface disposal facility; however,the majority of the site suitability requirements identify sitecharacteristicsfwhich will-not be present. The site suitabilityrequirements are intended to function collectively with requirementson site design, facility operation, site closure, waste classificationand segregation, waste form and-packaging, and institutional controlsto help assure isolation of the low-level radioactive wastes for theduration of the radiological hazard and to provide stability of thedisposal site after closure.

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The staff fully expects that the site characteristics of any proposednear-surface disposal facility willimake a significant contributionto the isolation of low-level radioactive wastes'and the stability ofthe disposal site after closure. Since license applications areanticipated for near-surface disposal facilities in several differentgeographical areas exhibiting a wide range of geologic, hydrologic,meteorologic, and climatic conditions, the staff recognizes that thecontribution of the site characteristics may vary from site to site.A disposal site with outstanding site characteristics may require lessreliance on design features and facility operation than a disposal sitewith adequate site characteristics.

The staff, in its review of a license application, will emphasize thelong-term contribution of the site characteristics because the reliancewhich can be placed on other subject areas, such as design features, wasteform and packaging, and institutional controls, will decrease withincreasing time after site closure. Tradeoffs related to the degree ofreliance placed on site characteristics and the other subject areasshould be made on the side of long-term contribution to the public healthand safety as opposed to short-term'convenience or benefits.

The site suitability requirements are minimum technical requirementsrelated to the geologic, hydrologic, and demographic characteristics ofa disposal site. The staff fully anticipates that any proposed disposalsite will meet these minimum technical requirements. The staff foreseesvery few instances where proposed disposal sites not meeting the minimumtechnical requirements would be acceptable. Such sites would be evaluatedon a site-by-site basis and would require that an exception to the rulebe granted.

The specific site suitability requirements in Section 61.50 of theproposed rule are as follows:

1. The disposal site shall be- pable of beingcharacterized, modeled, analyzed and monitored.

2. Within the region or state where the facility is to belocated, a disposal site should be selected so thatprojected.population growth and future developments'arenot'likely to affect the ability of the disposal facilityto meet the performance objectives...

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3 Areas must be avoided having known natural resources which,if exploited, would result in failure to meet the performanceobjectives...

4. The disposal site must be generally well drained andfree of areas of flooding or frequent ponding. Wastedisposal shall not take place in a 100-year floodplain,coastal high-hazard area or wetland, as defined in ExecutiveOrder 11988, Floodplain Management Guidelines.

5. Upstream drainage areas must be minimized to decreasethe amount of runoff which could erode or inundatewaste disposal units.

6. The disposal site must provide sufficient depth to thewater table that ground-water intrusion, perennial orotherwise, into the waste will not occur. TheCommission will'consider an exception to this requirementto allow disposal below the water table if it can beconclusively shown that disposal site characteristics willresult in molecular diffusion being the predominant meansof radionuclide movement and the rate of movement willresult in the performance objectives... being met. In nocase will waste disposal be permitted in the zone offluctuation of the water table.

7. The hydrogeologic unit used for disposal shall not dischargeground water to the surface within the disposal site.

8. Areas must be avoided where tectonic processes such asfaulting, folding, seismic activity, or vulcanism mayoccur with such frequency and extent to significantlyaffect the ability of the disposal site to meet theperformance objectives... or may preclude defensiblemodeling and prediction of long-term impacts.

9. Areas must be avoided where surface geologic processessuch as mass wasting, erosion, slumping, landsliding, orweathering occur with such frequency and extent tosignificantly affect the ability of the disposal siteto meet the performance objectives... or may precludedefensible modeling and prediction of long-term impacts.

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10. The disposal site must not be located where nearbyfacilities or activities could adversely impact theability of the site to meet the-performance objectives...or significantly mask the-environmental monitoringprogram.

The first requirement implies that the proposed site should begeologically and hydrologically simple. Since site characterizationinvestigations can sample only a small fraction of the surface area orsubsurface volume of the disposal site, site characteristics must be suchthat these limited investigations can adequately define the sitecharacteristics spatially across the disposal site. Site conditionsshould be such that well-dotumented analytical solutions or computercodes are available and applicable for modeling site performance..As a minimum, the modeling of site characteristics, such'as infiltrationor ground-water flow, should be able to reproduce natural steadv-btateconditions and perturbed conditions, such as responses to precipitationor stresses introduced by pumping during the site characterizationinvestigations.

Since most modeling tends to homogenize the hydrogeologic units andaverage the hydrologic properties for: such units, the sitecharacteristics should vary within a'sufficiently narrow range so thatthe input to the modeling is representative of the hydrogeologic unitsand the assumptions underlying the modeling are valid. For example,the hydrogeologic unit used for disposal should not have continuouspermeable or'impermeable anomalies such as faults or fracture zones, sandlenses,-weathered horizons, or karstic features that provide' preferentialpathways for or barriers to ground-water flow.

The first requirement also implies that natural processes affecting thedisposal site'should be occurring at a consistent and definable rate suchthat the modeling of the site will represent both present andanticipatable site conditions after.closure. Finally, since'monitoringprograms can sample'only a small fraction of the surface area orsubsurface volume of the.'di'sposal site, site characteristics must be suchthat the small number of monitoring points can adequately describe theextent to which radionuclides have migrated from the waste disposalunits.

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The se ond requirement, related to population growth, is tied to thepotential for eventual use of the site. Disposal sites should be locatedin an area which has low population density and limited population growthpotential. Disposal sites should be at least two kilometers from theproperty limits of the closest population centers. Consideration shouldbe given to the potential for future land use activities, such asresidential, industrial, agricultural, and recreational development, thatcould adversely affect the disposal site. The consideration of futureland use for the site and surrounding vicinity sho'uld includelimitations imposed as conditions of land ownership and zoningrestrictions.

The third requirement, related to known natural resources, includes suchresources as mineral, coal or hydrocarbon deposits, geothermal energysources, timber and water resources. The requirement applies to reso'ancerecovery that may occur at the ground surface, in the hydrogeologic unitsused for disposal and isolation, and at greater depths which requireexcavation or drilling through the disposal units. Potential indirecteffects caused by nearby exploitation, such as increased infiltration ratesor steepened hydraulic gradients, should be evaluated. The primaryconcerns with respect to the presence of exploitable natural resources arethe likelihood of inadvertent intrusion by a resource exploiter and theeffects of resource development on the performance of the site after theperiod of active institutional control.

The fourth requirement consists of two components. The first component,related to drainage crossing the disposal site, primarily'applies to thedisposal site after construction of the near-surface disposal facility.However, natural areas of poor drainage or frequent ponding can beindicative of seasonally high ground-water levels and should be sonoted by the applicant. In addition, areas of flash flooding, such asarroyos or dry washes, should be avoided. The second component, relatedto avoidance of the 100-year floodplain, coastal high-hazard area orwetland, implements Executive Order 11988, Floodplain Management Guidelines.This requirement can be applied to the disposal site at the site selectionphase.

The 100-year floodplain is defined in the Executive Order as the lowlandand relatively flat areas adjoining inland and coastal waters, includingfloodprone areas of offshore islands, including at a minimum, that areasubject to a one percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year.A coastal high-hazard area is defined as the area subject to high

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velocity waters including, but not limited to, hurricane wave wash ortsunamis. Wetlands are defined as those areas that are inundated orsaturated by surface water or ground water .at a frequency and a durationsufficient to support and under normal circumstances do, or would, supporta prevalence of vegetation or aquatic life that requires saturated orseasonally-saturated soil conditions for growth and reproduction.Wetlands generally include swamps, tidal flats, marshes, bogs, andsimilar areas.

The fifth requirement, related to upstream drainage areas contributingflow across the disposal site, can be applied to the site at the siteselection phase. The staff will consider engineering modifications ordiversion'of natural drainage to'lessen potential impacts of the upstreamdrainage area if these changes are long-term (equivalent to the durationof the radiological hazard) and will not require ongoing active maintenance.The staff anticipates that diversions'of perennial streams wotid not, inmost cases, be acceptable. The consideration'of upstream drainage areasshould include the impact of potential modifications by others to theupstream drainage area, such as land clearing and cultivation ordevelopment of roads, which may occur after the near-surface disposalfacility is in operation.

The sixth'requirement, related to *the depth of the water table, indicatesthat, with few exceptions, near-surface disposal of low-level radioactivewastes.will be in unsaturated soil deposits (regolith). Exceptions couldinclude dry disposal in engineered facilities or structures eithercompletely below, partially below, or completely above natural sitegrade. Alternatively, as indicated in'the wording of the requirement,waste-disposalmay be below the water table at some sites if it can beconclusively shown that site characteristics will' result in moleculardiffusion being the predominant means of radionuclide movement and therate of movement will result in the performance objectives being met.;In no case, however, should waste disposal occur within the zone markedby fluctuations of the water table.,'''

At sites where disposal will be above the water table, seasonalfluctuations of the water table and capillary fringe both prior and:subsequent to waste disposal must be-considered.' 'The bottoms of thedisposal units must be, at all times, above the saturated zone in order tolimit the water'contacting the wastes to that small'portion whichinfiltrates through-covers in disposal 'areas. Re-ducing the contact timeof the water with the waste by using'freely-dra ning granular backfillshould be considered. In addition, the-accumulation of water in the

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disposal unit (the bath-tub effect) must be avoided. This can normallybe accomplished if the bottom of the disposal unit can drain at least asreadily as water can infiltrate into the disposal unit through the coveror sides and if there is no capillary rise of water into the disposalunits from the underlying soil deposits.

For sites where disposal will be below the water table, the hydrogeologicunit used for disposal should have hydraulic properties, e.g. hydraulicconductivity and effective porosity, which essentially precludeground-water flow. The hygraulic conductivity, as tested in-situ, shouldtypically be less than 10 cm/sec. The effective porosity would beexpected to be on the order of 0.01. Hydrogeologic units which meet theseconditions generally cannot be tested by normal techniques requiringaddition or withdrawal of water in wells. Methods of determining thatmolecular diffusion is the prevalent mechanism of solute transport includeage-dating of ground water by isotopic ratios and radioisotopic methods toshow that there has been no active circulation of ground water withinthe unit during the length of time determined by the age-dating.

The seventh requirement, related to ground-water discharge, stipulatesthat the hydrogeologic unit used for disposal will not discharge groundwater to the ground surface within the disposal site. Surface-waterfeatures sustained by ground-water discharge, such as perennial andephemeral streams, springs, seeps, swamps, marshes, and bogs, should notbe present at the proposed disposal site. This requirement will resultin a travel time for most dissolved radionuclides at least equal to thetravel time of the ground water from the disposal area to the siteboundary. In addition, this requirement should provide sufficient spacewithin the buffer zone to implement remedial measures, if needed, tocontrol releases of radionuclides before discharge to the ground surfaceor migration from the disposal site.

Longitudinal dispersion may result in arrival of a few dissolvedradionuclides at a point of interest earlier than calculated solely onthe basis of ground-water travel time. However for many radionuclides,the travel time should be longer due to retardation processes.

The staff prefers long flow paths from the disposal site to the pointof ground-water discharge in order to increase the amount of decay ofthe radionuclides, increase the hydrodynamic dispersion within the aquifer,and increase the likelihood of retardation of reactive radionuclides inthe aquifer. In reviewing licensing applications, the staff will relyprimarily on radionuclide decay and secondarily on hydrodynamic dispersion

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within the aquifer to determine if estimated concentrations will be lessthan the acceptable limits. Retardation processes will be used as a marginof safety to offset the uncertainty in the data and analyses. However,the applicant may propose to'consider each of the processes. The degree ofreliance placed by the applicant on each of the'three processes should bereflected in the methods of teesting'used during the site characterizationinvestigations, as discussed later'in the'technical position paper.

The eighth and ninth requirements,-related to tectonic and geomorphicprocesses, respectively, can be'applied to the disposal site at the siteselection phase. These requirements relate primarily to the stabilityof the disposal site. The natural processes affecting the disposal siteshould be occurring at a consistent and definable rate. In addition, theseprocesses should not occur at a.frequency, rate, or-extent which cansignificantly change the stability'of the site or the ability of thedisposal site to isolate low-level radioactive wastes during the duraLionof the radiological hazard (approximately 500 years). Changes whichoccur due to these processes should not' invalidate the results of anymodeling and prediction of long-term'impacts.

The tenth requirement, related to effects of nearby facilities oractivities, is included so that the evaluation of. any proposed disposalsite will include not only the impacts of that'disposal site on itssurroundings but also the impacts of tle"surroundings on the disposalsite. For example, damming of downstream rivers, blasting associatedwith quarrying activities, subsidence and/or earth-fissuring caused byground-water withdrawals, and ground-water rises associated with heavyirrigation may adversely affect the'ability of the site to meet theperformance objectives.- Nearby sources of airborne radionuclides, driftfrom cooling towers at nearby electrical- generating stations or otherindustries, adjacent hazardous waste disposal facilities, and injectionof water and/or liquid wastes upgradient from the disposal site mayadversely affect the ability to monitor the performance of the disposalsite. In cases of co-located facilities, the'monitoring programs forthe facilities should be able to identify the source and differentiatebetween the releases of the separate facilities. 'In''addition, themonitoring programs should provide' adequate data to identify mitigativemeasures, if needed, for the separate facilities;'

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Site Selection

The site selection process used by any applicant, individual state, orregional compact of states may vary considerably due to a wide variety offactors such as geographical distribution of low-level radioactive wastegenerators; diverse geologic, hydrologic, meteorologic, climatic,ecologic, and socioeconomic settings; and provisions on site selection inthe compact charters. However, the NRC staff anticipates that the siteselection processes followed in separate applications will share the samebasic steps.

The first step will consist typically of defining the region of interest,such as the area within the geographic boundaries of an individual stateor regional compact. The second step will consist of screening theregion of interest to identify potential sites. In the third step, thepotential sites will be screened against a common set of criteria,including the minimum technical requirements in. 10 CFR Part 61 and theenvironmental standards in 10 CFR Part 51. The third step is envisionedas a coarse screening process which will identify a slate of candidatesites for more detailed review.

The fourth step will consist typically of a detailed review of the slateof candidate sites identified through the coarse screening. The firstfour steps will rely primarily upon available reconnaissance-levelinformation. The primary differences between the steps will be the levelof detail of the review and the inclusion of additional items to beevaluated in each step. For example, the fourth step may includeitems such as conceptual designs, preliminary cost estimates, releasescenarios, and pathway studies which were not included in the previoussteps. The fourth step will conclude with the selection of a preferredsite from among the candidate sites.

In some cases, limited investigations of site characteristics at some orall of the candidate sites may be needed during the fourth step toevaluate these additional items and to adequately distinguish between thecandidate sites such' that a preferred site can be identified. However,the major portion of the site characterization studies will be performedat the preferred site after selection from among the candidate sites.Only if the detailed site characterization studies identify unanticipatedadverse conditions at the preferred site would detailed investigations beperformed at more than one site.

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The NEPA regulation requires a comparison of alternatives to the proposedaction. In meeting this regulation, there should be comparison betweenthe preferred site and two or three viable alternative sites selectedfrom among the candidate sites.'-Viable alternative sites can be definedas sites that, although not selected as the preferred site, would meetthe minimum technical requirements and would reasonably be expected tomeet the performance objectives. To the extent that the diversity ofcandidate sites will permit, the comparison between the preferred andalternative sites should include consideration of different geologicmedia, different conceptual designs afforded by the alternative sites,different environmental impacts associated with each site in thecomparison, and projected cost differences.

In addition, the comparison of alternatives should include considerationof the different conceptual designs considered for the preferred site andavailable actions for mitigating environmental impacts at the preferredsite. This comparison of alternatives should stop at the level wherethere is no difference between the alternatives in terms of environmentalimpact.

Site Characterization

Site characterization is defined, for purposes of this technical positionpaper, as the program of investigations and tests, both in the field andlaboratory, undertaken to define the'site characteristics affecting theisolation of the low-level radioactive wastes, the long-term stability ofthe disposal site, and the interactions between the disposal site and itssurroundings. The evaluation of available reconnaissance-level dataduring the site selection process should serve as a basis for design ofthe site characterization program. Data from both site selection andsite characterization will be required to support a license applicationand environmental report (standard format and content guides are inpreparation).

Site characterization studies should be performed after selection of apreferred disposal site and-prior to submittal of a license applicationand environmental report for a proposed near-surface disposal facility.As indicated previously, the staff anticipates that, in-most cases, sitecharacterization studies will be performed only at the preferred disposalsite.

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The ov-rall objective of site characterization is to investigate thecharacteristics of the preferred disposal site to the extent needed to1) support a license application and environmental report, and 2) permitan independent evaluation of the proposed near-surface disposalfacility by the staff. This independent evaluation will, as statedpreviously, include both consideration of public health and safety(10 CFR Part 61) and compliance with NEPA (10 CFR Part 51).

Specific objectives of site characterization are to develop the technicalinformation needed for:

1. demonstration that the performance objectives and the minimumtechnical requirements on site suitability will be met;

2. evaluation of the ability of the site characteristics tocontribute to isolation of the low-level radioactives wastes;

3. design of the near-surface disposal facility;

4. identification of interactions between the site characteristicsand the low-level radioactive waste and waste containers;

5. establishment of data collection points and a baseline of datafor some portions of the site monitoring program; and

6. identification of potential environmental impacts resultingfrom construction, operation, and closure of the near-surfacedisposal facility.

One problem experienced at several existing low-level radioactive wastedisposal facilities has been the identification of site conditions duringsite operations which were not adequately investigated and evaluatedduring the site characterization programs. In several instances, theadditional information has raised questions related to the ability toadequately model and monitor the potential migration of radionuclides inthe site ground-water systems. Therefore, the staff takes the positionthat the site characterization program for any proposed near-surfacedisposal facility should be planned, implemented, and analyzed by atechnical staff with professional expertise and experience in each ofthe various disciplines in the following discussion. This technicalstaff may be internal to the applicant's organization or may retained bystandard consulting arrangements.

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The site characterization program for any proposed disposal site must be.tailored to the characteristics of. the specific disposal site. Hence,site characterization programs will vary from site to site. Inaddition, the-site characterization program for any site can be expectedto be revised as the program progresses and more site-specific informationis-obtained.

Many of the site characteristics measured during the sitecharacterization program will vary with time. Time-variant sitecharacteristics may include meteorological characteristics such astemperature, wind direction and precipitation; hydrologicalcharacteristics such as soil moisture content, ground-water levels, andground-water quality; and ecological characteristics such as the presenceof migratory species. Data on some of these time-variant sitecharacteristics may be available from measurements or surveys at regionalrecording stations.''However, some parameters may require site-specificmeasurements at such frequencyand duration so as to adequately definethe seasonal-range of values.

For example, the staff anticipates that data needed-to determine the sitewater budget and fluctuations of ground-water levels would typicallynecessitate a minimum one-year period of measurement at the proposeddisposal-:site. This minimum one-year. period of record should besupplemented, where possible,'with regional data covering a longertime period.

The staff anticipates that the licensing process can be expedited ifapplicants submit their site characterization plans-for review anddiscussion prior to initiating site characterization. This early-onreview and discussion serves as a pre-licensing consultation with thestaff. In this.manner, any concerns that the staff has related to thespecific characteristics of the proposed disposal site or the sitecharacterization program can be identified and incorporated as appropriateintc the program. Early-on review and discussion can benefit the applicantby identifying those site characseristics that will or will not need to beinvestigated, determining appropriate methods, of. investigation to be usedfor those which 'are needed, and identifying the appropriate level'ofdetail, such as the size""of the study.area, the depth of borings', thehydrogeologic units to be investigated, and points of interest fordetermination of potential releases of radionuclides. Early-on reviewand discussions can also benefit the applicant by reducing the likelihoodof delays while additional data are collected and by avoiding increasedcosts associated with remobilizing the study team. The staff recommendsthat these pre-licensing discussions continue on a frequent basis duringimplementation of the site characterization program.

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The p 'Dosed rule requires that the applicant conduct a pre-operationalmonitc.ing program to provide a baseline of data on site characteristics.Data collection points established in the site characterization studiesfor this pre-operational monitoring program should, to the extentpracticable, be located, designed, and constructed for use throughoutthe periods of operation, post-closure observation and maintenance, andinstitutional control for the near-surface disposal facility(approximately 150 years). In this manner, there will be a common dataset from which potential health and environmental impacts can beidentified, long-term effects of changes in site characteristics onradionuclide migration and stability of the disposal site can be evaluated,And the need for mitigating measures can be determined. Portions of thet;te characterization studies that the staff recommends be incorporatedinco the site monitoring program have been identified in the following text.

The staff has attempted to be comprehensive in identifying, in thistechnical position paper, specific types of site characterizationactivities that may be needed at proposed disposal sites. To supplementthe technical position paper, the NRC has an inter-agency agreement withthe U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Waterways Experiment Station to provideNUREG reports on the recommended parameters and methods forcharacterizing low-level radioactive waste disposal sites. These NUREGreports should be available in June and August, 1982, respectively. Inaddition, the NRC and Oak Ridge National Laboratory will convene asymposium on site characterization and site monitoring programs inJune, 1982.

Meteorology. Meteorological data are needed primarily for three analyses.These are the determination of a water budget for the disposal site, theanalysis of the airborne pathway, and the determination of the frequency,probability and potential consequences of severe meteorologicalphenomena.

Regional meteorological data from recording stations near the proposeddisposal site will typically be analyzed during the site selectionprocess for extreme meteorological events such as hurricanes, tornadoes,and thunderstorms. The analyses should include the frequency andprobability of occurrence, return intervals, predominant direction, andmeasured extremes for wind speed and precipitation.

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For analysis of the site water budget and the airborne pathway,site-specific meteorological data should be collected during the sitecharacterization program. The site characterization program shouldinclude measurements of the amount, type, and temporal distribution ofprecipitation; dates and depth of frost penetration; and dates andthickness of snow cover. The site characterization program should alsoinclude continuous recordings.of air and soil temperature, wind speed,wind-direction, surface humidity,'dew point, and atmospheric pressure.Air and soil temperatures are typically needed at several levels up toone meter above or below the ground surface, respectively. Sinceatmospheric stability is typically--estimated from wind-speed and winddirection fluctuations at about 2 and IO meters, these parameters shouldbe measured continuously at both levels.

The staff anticipates that a minimum record of one year of site-specificmeteorological data will be collected during site characterization.Data collected from the on-site meteorological station should becompared to historical records from nearby recording stations which havesimilar topographical and hydrometeorological settings in order todetermine whether the site-specific data fit within the regional dataand to what extent this one-year period of record represents a "typical"weather year when compared to the historical record. Thelonger-duration, regional data base may be useful in extending thesite-specific data base for use in'long-term analyses.

The on-site meteorological station should be incorporated into the sitemonitoring program in order to extend the length of record ofsite-specific data collected during'-the site characterization studies.The increased record of site-specific'data can then be used to verifydata used in the analysis of water budget and atmospheric dispersion.

Surface Water. Site-specific surface-water data are needed todemonstrate that the technical requirements'related to surface-waterhydrologyjin the-proposed rule are met. Surface-water data are alsoneeded for analysis of the surface-water pathway and for design ofthe near-surface disposal facility..' Specific design analyses includepotential flooding of the disposal"site by off-site streams, designof the site drainage system, potential-inundation of thewaste disposalareas during maximum precipitation events, and potential erosionwithin the disposal site.

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Site characterization activities related to surface-water hydrology willinclude not only the site, but also the upstream drainage areacontributing flow across the site and the downstream drainage area to adistance of approximately 10 kilometers.

The site characterization program should include collection ofthe reconnaissance-level information needed for determining the extent ofthe 100-year floodplain (guidance in Executive Order 11988), determiningflood-flow frequencies (guidance in the U.S. Water Resources CouncilBulletin 17A), and determining the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF)and the Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) for the site (guidance inNRC Regulatory Guide 1.59, Design Basis Floods for Nuclear Power Plants).

Site characterization studies should also include aerial photography andtopographic mapping of the site and adjacent dra~nage areas in order toidentify features such as drainage divides, sizes of drainage areas,surface gradients and abrupt changes therein, areas of internal or closeddrainage, areas of flash flooding, areas of scour or sedimentation, andareas suitable for future impoundments. Topographic mapping of thedisposal site and upstream drainage area should be at a scale on theorder of 1:2400, with a contour interval on the order of 1 foot.For downstream drainage areas, 7 1/2- or 15-minute topographic mapsavailable from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) should suffice. Surveycontrol for the site topographic mapping should be coordinated with thesurvey control requirements for marking the boundaries and locations ofeach disposal unit. This requirement calls for establishing threepermanent survey control points, referenced to USGS or National GeodeticSurvey survey control stations, at the disposal site.

Site characterization studies should also include measurements of runoffcoefficients, infiltration rates, and channel characteristics such asslope, profile, cross-section, and roughness for drainage systemscrossing the site in order to determ".,e, where appropriate, the flowvelocities, depths, volumes, and durptions. Parshall flumes andsediment samplers should be installed, where appropriate, to determinethe rate of erosion of site soil deposits under varying gradients andground conditions. Particle-size distribution, soil cohesion, and soildispersion tests should be performed, as needed, to determine theerodibility of site soil deposits.

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The site characterization program 'should also include an inventory ofexisting surface-water users and municipal supplies within approximately10 kilometers downstream of the site ,in order to:determine the nearestsurface-water users and the nearest municipal supply relying on surfacewater. For these locations, the inventory should include the location,type, and amount of 'use; source of supply; type of intake; andsurface-water quality data as submitted to the EPA periodically forcertification.

Ground Water. Site-specific ground-water data are needed to determinethat the technical requirements' related to ground-water hydrology are met.Ground-water data are also needed for analysis of the ground-water pathwayand for design of the near-surface disposal facility.

The staff considers the ground-water pathway to be the most significantpathway for migration of radionuclides at humid sites. At-arid sites,the staff considers the'movement of soil moisture and vapor to be-the mostsignificant pathway for'migration of radionuclides. 'At either type ofsite, the staff considers the contact of soil moisture with the wastecontainers and waste to be the major mechanism for potential'release ofradionuclides. Therefore, the discussion of ground water in thistechnical position paper is more detailed than discussions of the othertechnical areas.

The radius of ground-water 'studies during site characterization'shouldvary depending upon the types of aquifers underlying the proposeddisposal site. Shallow, unconfined (water table) aquifers may require astudy area radius on the order of several kilometers to encompass theground-water flow system and off-site ground-water users.] Confined(artesian).aquifers may 'require astudy area radius on the order ofseveral tens of-kilometers to encompass the ground-water flow systemand off-site ground-water users.' In either case, the staff anticipatesthat the off-site data can be obtained by reviewof availablereconnaissance-level information. '

The site characterization studies shouldinclude an inventory of existingground-water users within approximately two kilometers of the site. Forthese ground-water users, the inventoryshould include the location,'type, and'amounts-of use,;-hydrogeologic.unit used; typical well.'--construction details; and ground-water quality. The inventory-shouldinclude both-ground-water'wells and water'users at points ofground-water discharge, e.g., springs. 'The inventory should identify,

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for use in the ground-water pathway analysis, the nearest downgradientground-water users and the nearest municipal supply relying on groundwater.

The site characterization studies should identify all significanthydrogeologic units underlying the site to a depth on the order of 30meters below the level of waste disposal. The exact depth ofinvestigation should be determined on a site-specific basis usingreconnaissance-level information collected during the site selectionprocess. The reconnaissance-level information should be sufficient toprovide necessary ground-water data for the hydrogeologic units more than30 meters below the level of waste disposal.

The site characterization investigations of significant hydrogeologic unitsoverlap with geologic and tectonic studies described in a later section.Together they should identify the lithology, thickness, lateral -vtent,continuity, inclination, areas and modes of recharge and discharge,hydraulic properties, head, hydrochemistry, hydraulic communication withadjacent hydrogeologic units, and interrelationship with surface-waterbodies for the significant hydrogeologic units underlying the site. Thestudies should also investigate the presence of secondary permeability,such as solution features, or other preferential pathways, such as faultzones or joint systems. In addition, the studies should investigate thepresence of flow barriers, such as fault zones or dikes.

The site characterization studies should develop data needed to describethe occurrence and movement of water in both the unsaturated andsaturated zones. The parameters which govern the rate, direction, andvelocity of soil moisture movement and ground-water flow should bemeasured. These parameters include hydraulic conductivity, head,hydraulic gradient, effective porosity, specific storage, saturatedthickness and compressibility. The site characterization studies shouldestablish mean and median values, ranges of values, and spatial andtemporal variability for these parameters for the significanthydrogeologic units. The data collection points for moisture content andhead measurements (above and below the water table) should beappropriately located in three dimensions within the separatehydrogeologic units to establish the boundary conditions for modeling.

The identification of head distribution, both vertically and spatially,is particularly significant since it can be used for many purposes,including defining recharge/discharge areas, variations in hydraulicconductivity, and hydraulic communication with adjacent hydrogeologic

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units. In addition, the head distribution is the most readily useableparameter for determining the ability of models to reproduce naturalsteady-state conditions or perturbations ,on the systems'modeled.

Hydraulic conductivity may vary significantly above the water table asthe moisture content and head change. Site characterization'studiesshould define the relationship between-these parameters, including thehysteresis. The water-holding parameters for soil above the wiater table,such as specific retention, field capacity, and wilting-point should alsobe measured.

The staff anticipates that head and moisture content will be measured fora minimum period of one yeareind will be compared to'historic recordsof precipitation, moisture content, and water levels in the same orsimilar aquifers. In this manner, the applicant can estimate seasonaland long-term fluctuations of moisture content and head in thehydrogeologic units and determine the extent to which the'one-year recordof site-specific data represents a",typical" water year. The frequency ofmeasurement should reflect the mode 'of recharge of the hydrogeologic unit,with more frequent (weekly) measurements in unconfined units responding toprecipitation events and less frequent.(monthly) measurements in confinedunits not directly responding to precipitation events.

The site characterization studies should also include collection ofground-water chemistry data. Parameters measured should includeindicators of drinking water quality and the direction of flow, areas ofrecharge, and age of the ground water in the flow system. Otherparameters which may affect'the solubility of qaste leachates, such asby causing changes in oxidation statesand/ot precipitation fromsolution,,should also be measured. 'Major inL 'anic constituents, 'dissolvedoxygen, and other characteristic properties, ich as temperature and pH,should be included in the'sitelcharacterization studies. Major organicconstituents, such as total organic carbon and chemical oxygendemand, may,also be included.. Age-dating techniq..es, such as tritium, oxygen-18/oxyge'n-16ratio, carbon-13/carbon-12 ratio, ca. .on-14, and chlorine-36, should beincluded as appropriate for sites where'disposal will be below the watertable and molecular diffusion must dominate the flow system.

The staff anticipates that ground-water'chemistry will be measured, atleast quarterly, for a minimum period of one year and will be compared"to historic records, if-available. In this'manner, the applicant canestimate seasonal and long-term fluctuations of ground-water chemistryas a background for continued monitoring of key indicators of

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ground-water quality and leachate (radiological and non-radiological)migration.

For those sites where hydrodynamic dispersion and/or retardation will beconsidered in the transport analyses, the site characterization studiesshould include determination of the coefficient of dispersion and/or thedistribution coefficients for radionuclides of interest in the groundwater-soil system through which transport is expected to occur. Thedegree of reliance placed upon hydrodynamic dispersion (based on thecoefficient of dispersion) or retardation (based on the distributioncoefficient) should determine the methods used to quantify these values.

For sites where hydrodynamic dispersion is a primary mechanism fordemonstrating that potential concentrations will be within acceptablelimits, field dispersivity tests may be necessary to quantify thecoefficient of dispersion. For sites where ground-water travel timeis the primary mechanism and hydrodynamic dispersion is a secondarymechanism for demonstrating that potential concentrations will be withinacceptable limits, the coefficient of dispersion may be estimated based onvalues reported in the literature or derived by empirical relationships.

For sites where retardation processes are relied upon to demonstratethat potential concentrations will be within acceptable limits, thedistribution coefficients for the specific radionuclides should bedetermined by column tests, using site-specific ground water andundisturbed soil samples, or by field tracer tests.

Geology The site selection studies should have included the developmentof a regional geologic framework, including the stratigraphy, tectonics,structure, physiography, and geomorphology of the region surrounding theproposed site. Seismic and volcanic risks should have been evaluated inthis regional geologic framework. The staff anticipates that regionalinformation may be obtained from published sources, such as the variousUSGS report series, state geological survey reports, and otherprofessional publications. Site-specific geologic and hydrogeologicinvestigations should be defined using the understanding gained bydeveloping the regional geologic framework.

Stratigraphic data will typically be generated by several types of sitecharacterization investigations. The staff anticipates that no singletechnique can adequately characterize the site stratigraphy.

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The first type consists of surface mapping of geologic and hydrologicfeatures of the site. This mapping will supplement the sitetopographic mapping and should assist in planning the other types of

-investigations. Surface mapping of the site geology should be on ascale consistent with the site topographic maps previously mentioned.Terminology used should be consistent with the accepted usage of thestate geological survey or the USGS. The second type consists ofexploratory boreholes with detailed descriptions and laboratory testingof core samples. To the extent practicable, the boreholes should belocated, drilled, and sampled for use in the hydrogeologic andgeomechanical investigations and .the site ground-water monitoring program.The third type of investigation,, surficial geophysical surveys, shouldprovide subsurface information between boreholes. These surficialgeophysical surveys, such as electrical resistivity or seismic refraction,should define the vertical and horizontal extent of the site st: .Ligraphicunits, heterogeneities, such as sand lenses within the units, and thesurface of the water table.

The fourth type of investigation consists of borehole geophysicallogging. A wide variety of techniques .are available. The techniquesused are primarily dependent upon'the required information, the typesof soil deposits, and the location of the water table.. A-typicalsuite of borehole geophysical techniques for a proposed disposal site mayinclude spontaneous potential, nat'ural gamma, gamma-gamma,- neutron,resistivity, and gamma-ray spectrometry. The fifth type of,investigation, test pit or slit trench excavation, should providelarge-scale exposures of the stratigraphic urnts and design-relatedinformation on the excavation characteristic and the material handlingproperties of the soil deposits. Testpiti'o slit trench excavationswill not, in most cases, be suitable for was disposal after operationsbegin due to the effects of weathering on the exposed soil deposits.Since the design of the disposal facility will typically be determinedby the results of the-site characterization investigations,' any test pitor slit trench excavatiun's may also'not be suitable for waste-disposaldue to incompatability with the site drainage system or other designfeatures.

Lithologic'investigations will-'range'from lithologic descriptions basedon visual observations of soil sa'mples''and exposureslwtest pits tolaboratory tests' de'signed to produce'data on characteristics such as claymineral composition, carbonate content, "particle-size distribution,-moistiirecontent, porosity, permeability, bulk idensity, and ion-exchange capacity.

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Visual observation of core samples and exposures in test pits or slittrenches should reveal any primary structures (such as joints or shearsurfaces), depositional features (such as localized channel deposits,varves, cross-bedding, or graded-bedding), or weathering (pedalogic)profiles which may result in significant anisotropy of properties importantto ground-water flow and solute transport.

Structural geologic investigations of the site should concentrate onjoints and other fractures present in the hydrogeologic unit(s) used forthe disposal and isolation of the waste. These joints or other fracturesmay be of either tectonic or nontectonic origin (e.g., cracking caused bysubsidence, dessication, or glacial unloading). Such physicaldiscontinuities may act as planes of weakness for slope failure or aspreferential pathways for fluid flow and solute transport. In fracturedmedia, studies should be performed to define fracture spacing, continuity,roughness, and aperture for analyses of slope stability and modeling o0fluid flow and solute transport.

Geomorphic investigations should include systematic analysis of landformsto give indirect evidence of destructive geomorphic processes. For example,over-steepened valleys, landslides, rockslides, and sharply-incised streamvalleys may be evidence of slope instability or excessive erosion rates.

Geomechanics. Site characterization studies related to geomechanics willprovide data for major design-related analyses, such as slope stability,cover integrity, erosion, compaction characteristics for backfillmaterials, foundation analyses for any structures housing waste handlingor repackaging facilities, gradations for proposed filter materials, andpossible interactions between the soil and waste containers. The staffanticipates that many of the design features at the near-surfacedisposal facility, e.g., covers and backfill for disposal units andfilter materials for drains, will employ specially-selected earth materials.

The site characterization studies should be designed such thatsufficient and suitable data are available to perform the needed analyses.The analyses should include consideration of both temporary and finalsite slopes and grades. Laboratory studies should include classificationand index tests, such as the inified Soil Classification System andAtterberg limits, respectively. These may supplement lithologic descriptionsof soil samples collected during subsurface geological investigations.The coefficient of consolidation, minimum density, and void ratio of backfillshould be determined as needed for settlement analysis. Organiccontent, particle-size distribution, Atterberg limits, and

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moisture-density relationships (such as those determined using theModified or Standard Proctor tests) should be determined for design ofthe backfill and the covers.: Cohesive soils used in the covers will besubject to cycles offwetting and dessication and therefore should betested for shrink-swell characteristics and clay mineralogy. In somecases, freezing characteristics of the soil may be needed to determinefreeze/thaw effects, particularly changes in volume and hydraulicconductivity. In addition, the cohesion, angle of-internal friction,and unit weight (saturated and unsaturated) of the soils may be needed foranalyses of slope stability for'natural, cut, or fill slopes. Additionalparameters may be needed, depending on the type of soil and the methodof analysis.

Particle-size distribution, dispersive characteristics and cohesion ofthe surficial soils and covers should be determined to assist in theanalysis of erosion resistance. Parameters such as the coefficient ofconsolidation, void ratio, cohesion, angle of internal friction, limitpressure, deformation'modulus, or penetration resistance (as measuredwith the Standard Penetration Test or Cone Penetrometer) should bedetermined as appropriate for the soil types and method of analysis usedto determine the bearing capacity of the subgrade soils and thesettlement of structures. Index properties, such as unit weights,Atterberg limits, organic content', and particle-size distribution mayalso be needed.

Particle-size analysis of the' in-situ soils and.proposed filter materialsmay be necessary to demonstrate the"effectiveness of proposed subdrains.Subdrains should have a particle-size distribution which readily allowspassage of water without clogging due to transport of fine material fromthe adjacent soil units. -'Analysis of the corrosivity of the fill to beused around the waste containers may necessitate the determination ofsoil resistivity, pH, moisture content, and oxidation-reductionpotential.

Air Quality. The site characterization program should include analysesof on-site air quality for use in estimating facility-generatedradiological and non-radiological impacts on air-quality'and inperforming atmospheric transport/dispersion'rmodeling.- The air qualitystudies are especially important if the applicant plans atmosphericreleases of potential radiological or non-radiological contaminants, suchas through the use of an evaporator or-incinerator.

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Air quality parameters measured in the site characterization programshould define the level of airborne radionuclides contributed byatmospheric fallout, natural radiation released from the soil, andagricultural activities such as spray application of fertilizers orinsecticides. Suspended particulates should also be measured during thesite characterization studies.

The measurement of air quality parameters should provide at least aone-year record of site-specific information. These data will serve as abaseline for the site monitoring program, and, the data collection pointsused during site characterization should be incorporated into the sitemonitoring program.

Ecology. The site characterization studies should include ecologicalsurveys of the proposed disposal site needed for sections of theenvironmental report dealing with terrestrial and aquatic ecology. Ihesesections will include a description of the ecology of the site and sitevicinity, an analysis of ecological impacts, and identification ofproposed mitigating measures (if necessary).

The ecological survey should encompass a radius on the order of 5kilometers from the disposal site. This program should be gearedtoward assembling an accurate, site-specific inventory of floraand fauna. Sampling for the ecological survey should be conducted for aminimum period of one year on a quarterly basis to determine seasonalvariations (where appropriate) of both terrestrial and aquatic species.The survey should utilize established scientific methods for surveying,data retrieval, and data reduction. The ecological survey should includeconsultation with local authorities about available published data onlocal biota which can then be used to augment the field work.

The use of the site vicinity as breeding grounds or by migratory speciesshould be included in the ecological survey. The survey should include anidentification of important species. A definition of important speciesis provided in NRC Regulatory Guide 4.2, Section 2.2, Ecology. Thesurvey should also address the distribution, habitats, and ecologicalinterrelationships of the important species.

The number, extent and distribution of livestock, and crops should alsobe surveyed. Finally, the ecological survey should be used to relatethe site vicinity to the surrounding region, noting any uniquecharacteristics of the site vicinity.

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Land Use and Cultural Resources. Surveys of land use and culturalresources are-necessary for the analysis of impacts of the near-surfacedisposal facility to be included in the environmental report.

The land use survey may be conducted largely from existing publishedmaterials such as local land use plans, aerial photography, topographicmaps, or other sources. The land use survey, therefore, will mostlikely have been included in the site selection process. However,,fieldwork may be necessary to verify current conditions or to answer any questionsthat arise during the site selection process. The survey should includeland use patterns within a radius of approximately 10'kilometers fromthe site. Land uses should be classified as agricultural, residential,industrial, woodland, commercial, institutional, transportation, specialmanagement.areas (parks, scenic areas,-military reservations, etc.) orother use categories and should be mapped accordingly. The applicantshould review and describe zoning categories of the site.and the 10kilometer radius of the study area. Trends in land use'in the sitevicinity should'also be identified.

Site characterizatiop studies should also include an inventory ofresidences within approximately.two kilometers of the site and populationcenters within' a radius on the order of '10 kilometers''from the site.This inventory is needed as input to the analysis of the airbornepathway. The inventory should include the distance and direction of..theresidence or population center from the site and a description of.anyintervening topographic features which may significantly affect thedispersion analyses. For the population centers, the inventory shouldalso include the number of persons and areal size of the populationcenter.

A cultural resources survey of the site and surrounding region to aradius of approximately 10 kilometers from the site should also beperformed. This survey should be coordinated with the.State'HistoricPreservation Officer and should attempt to identify, via literaturereview, field-reconnaissance, and limited surface testing (if necessary),the potential for encountering cultural resources of significance asdefined by federal, state, and/or local historic preservation laws. Bothhistoric and pre-historic resources should be considered in planning andexecuting the survey.

The cultural resources survey of the disposal site should includemapping of identified cultural sites and an evaluation of the potentialof any cultural site for inclusion on the National Register of Historic

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Places or in any state or local registers. The survey of the areasurrounding the site should include a listing of cultural sites withina radius of approximately 10 kilometers which are currently listed ornominated for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places,the National Registry of Natural Landmarks, or any similar state or locallists.

Socioeconomics. A description of the socioeconomic environment isneeded for the analysis of the facility impacts in the environmentalreport. The socioeconomic study may be conducted largely from existingpublished materials. The socioeconomics study, therefore, will mostlikely have been included in the site selection process. However,the applicant may need to survey the study area, usually defined on thebasis of political jurisdictions such as counties, to establish datasuch as population, labor availability, labor skills, transportation,historic commuting Datterns, school systems, health system, public safetysystem, utilities, tax base, commerce, and housing stock.

The staff anticipates that the project work force will have the greatestsocioeconomic impact. This project work force is not expected to be largeand, therefore, the impacts from a near-surface disposal facility arelikewise not expected to be large in most cases. However, the potentialfor impacts may vary from site to site as a function of project size,existing socioeconomic conditions, and the ability of the subject regionto accommodate a temporary or permanent influx of workers and theirfamilies.

A sociocultural analysis may also be appropriate. In such cases,attitudinal surveys should be performed during site characterization.Sociocultural dimensions to be surveyed may include commmunitycohesion, family stability, local attitudes and lifestyle, and prevailingcommunity problems. As in the socioeconomic analysis, the projectcharacteristics should be superimposed on the sociocultural dimensions toidentify project-related impacts such as changes in community composition,marital and family status, cultural values, and other quality of lifeindicators.

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NRC s.n 335 1. REPORTNUMBER I~ssJ9vwedbyOOCJNRC 77, ., . U.S. NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION .

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA SHEET NUREG-09024 TITLE ANDSUBTITLE iAddVolumeNo.dlvtoorreaeJ 2. (Leave bokl/*

Site Suitability, Selection and CharacterizationBranch Technical Position -- Low-Level Waste Licensing 3. REcIPIENTSACCESSIONNO.

BranchAUTHORISI 5. DATE REPORT COMPLETED

0. Siefken, G. Pangburn, R. Pennifill, R.J. Starmer MONTH YEAR9 PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND MAILING ADDRESS (Inclade Zip Code) DATE REPORT ISSUED

Division of Waste Management MONTH YEAR

Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards April 1982U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission 6. (Leave blank)

Washington, DC 205558. cLeave bt~lnk)

:2 SPONSORING ORGANIZATION NAME AND MAILING ADDRESS lInchide ZIP Code)10. PROJECTiTASKIWORK UNIT NO.

Same as 9, above. II. CONTRACT NO.

13 TYPE OF REPORT | PERIOD COVEREo finclusive daresl

Technical PositionIS SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES 14. tLeave blankl

16 ABSTRACT t200 wotds o0 leSsJ

The staff provides an expanded interpretation of the site suitability requirementsin the proposed rule Wi CFR Part 61, a description of the anticipated site selectionprocess, and a detailed discussion of the site characterization program needed tosupport a license application and environmental report. The paper provides early-onguidance to prospective applicants in these three subject areas.

17. KEY WORDS AND DOCUMENT ANALYSIS 17a. DESCRIPTORS

low-level radioactive waste disposalshallow land burial

17b. IDENTIFIERS'OPEN-ENDED TERMS

B. AVAILABILITY STATEMENT 19. SECURITY. LAS This remos?) 21 NO ';r PAGESUnclassflied

Unlimited (ThisTJpiaf 22. PRICE

TC FORM 335 17t77)

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