IGNACE — The Nuclear Waste Management Organization has chosen a site for its proposed deep geological repository: Revell Lake, between Ignace and Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation.
The repository, or DGR, would be a place for the long-term storage of spent fuel from Canada’s nuclear power plants. The Revell site was on a shortlist of two potential locations, along with a spot in the rural South Bruce municipality in southwestern Ontario.
In a news release issued Thursday morning, NWMO president Laurie Swami hailed the site selection as “a historic moment” and said the DGR “will solve an environmental issue and supports Canada’s climate change goals.”
The site decision is the culmination of a nearly 15-year process that began in 2010 when the NWMO, a federally mandated and industry-funded body, invited municipalities to express interest in hosting a DGR. More than 20 municipalities expressed an interest.
Ignace township council passed a motion in July to continue as a potential host municipality. Wabigoon Lake members approved continuing in the process in a referendum earlier this month.