Deep Geological Repository (DGR) for Canada's Used Nuclear Fuel Project

The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (the NWMO) is proposing a new underground deep geological repository system designed to safely contain and isolate used nuclear fuel. Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation (WLON) and the Township of Ignace have been selected as the host communities for the proposed project, which is located 21 kilometres southeast of the WLON and 43 kilometres northwest of the Town of Ignace, Ontario along Highway 17. As proposed, the Deep Geological Repository (DGR) for Canada's Used Nuclear Fuel Project would provide permanent storage for approximately 5.9 million bundles of used nuclear fuel. The project is expected to span approximately 160 years, encompassing site preparation, construction, operation and closure monitoring. The project assessment is being conducted in collaboration with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.

Latest update

January 5, 2026 — The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission invite Indigenous Peoples and the public to review the summary of the Initial Project Description for the Deep Geological Repository for Canada’s Used Nuclear Fuel Project and provide feedback by February 4, 2026. Comments received will be used to prepare the summary of issues. Funding is also available to help participate in the impact assessment process for this project. Applications received by February 4, 2026, will be considered.

At a glance

Planning

Planning

In progress 7/180 days

Key documents

Impact Statement

Impact Statement

Not started 0/1095 days
Impact Assessment

Impact Assessment

Not started 0/300 days
Decision Making

Decision Making

Not started 0/30 days
Post Decision

Post Decision phase is an ongoing process

If approved, the project may proceed to construction as federal authorizations and permits are issued, and as conditions and other requirements are met.

Post Decision

Not started

Participate

Contacts

Deep Geological Repository for Canada's Used Nuclear Fuel Project
Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
160 Elgin Street, 22nd Floor
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H3
Telephone: 343-598-5270
Email: nuclearwaste-dechetsnucleaires@iaac-aeic.gc.ca

Media Relations
Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
160 Elgin Street, 22nd Floor
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H3
Email: media@iaac-aeic.gc.ca


Disclaimer

This map is for illustrative purposes. The markers represent the approximate locations based on available data. More than one marker may be identified for a given assessment.

  • Location

    • 43 km northwest of Ignace (Ontario)

  • Nature of Activity

    • Waste Management

  • Assessment Status

    In progress

  • Start Date

    2026-01-06

  • Proponent

    Nuclear Waste Management Organization

  • Authorities

    • Impact Assessment Agency of Canada

  • Assessment Type

    Planning Phase for Impact Assessment

  • Reference Number

    88774

Nearby assessments

...within 200 kilometres
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