Low-Level Radioactive Waste Facilities Research Papers

Collection — Box: 1-2

Identifier: MS-906

Staff Only

Collection Scope and Content Summary

Research papers, 1980-1991, covering the process of locating low-level radioactive waste disposal facilities in Michigan and the public reaction to the plan. Includes background information on radioactive waste disposal and its effects, reports, and criterial and governmental regulations for disposal. Also includes clippings, newsletters, and publications documenting the contentious public debate.

Dates

1980-1991

Language of Material

English

Conditions Governing Access

Available for use in the Michigan Technological University Archives and Copper Country Historical Collections.

Conditions Governing Use

Various copying restrictions apply. Guidelines are available from Michigan Technological University Archives & Copper Country Historical Collections.

Historical Note

In 1982 Michigan joined Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri and Iowa to form the Midwest Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact in order to locate a collective site for low-level radioactive waste disposal in one of the member states. Michigan was settled on for the regional site; however, the decision to locate the potential dumpsite in Ontonagon County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula created a contentious reaction from the public and environmentalists. Ontonagon County was removed from consideration because of new data on wetlands as well as political pressure.

Extent

0.63 Cubic Feet (1 manuscript box (legal size), 1/2 manuscript box (letter size))

Additional Description

Abstract

This collection covers the process around radioactive waste disposal in Michigan and the public reaction to the plans. Includes background information on radioactive waste disposal and effects, reports, and criteria for potential disposal sites as well as governmental regulations. Also includes clippings, newsletters, and publications documenting the public's reaction against the potential disposal sites.

Acquisition

The low-level radioactive waste research material was donated to the Michigan Technological University Archives and Copper Country Historical Collections by J. Harrison Carpenter on September 20, 2012.

Related Archival Materials

MS-681, Michigan Radioactive Waste Committee Records, Michigan Technological University Archives and Copper Country Historical Collections, Houghton, Michigan.