Studies and Reports
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The Municipality is working to ensure the community makes an informed decision. This includes conducting research and independently reviewing studies related to the NWMO site selection process.
To stay informed and learn, follow our news updates, join our Stay Connected email list, and attend an upcoming Community Liaison Committee (CLC) meeting.
Community expectations - 36 Guiding Principles
With community input, the Municipality of South Bruce developed 36 Guiding Principles to summarize the community’s expectations for the project and guide our discussions with the NWMO. The principles are focused on:
- safety for people and the environment
- ensuring the Project brings meaningful benefits to the community
- and ensuring the community has a voice in decision making
These principles have been guiding municipal discussions with the NWMO since they were created. They are also the focus of dozens of studies. Some of this work was conducted by consultants hired by the Municipality while some of the work was conducted by the NWMO. All studies were peer reviewed by the Municipality’s independent consultants.
What we've learned
South Bruce has hired consultants to conduct a range of studies on the potential impact of the Project. The NWMO has also led studies, which tend to take a broader look at the impact of the Project regionally.
These studies have been peer reviewed, meaning the Municipality has retained independent experts to confirm that the methodology and findings are valid.
For a full list of research, read the Overview of Studies document.
Summary Report on Safety and the Natural Environment Studies |
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The Report provides a summary of studies carried out by NWMO related to community safety and protection of the natural environment and the Peer Review findings and recommendations. It provides the community with an understanding of the studies completed to date, how the studies work to address South Bruce’s Guiding Principles, and describes future studies to be conducted if the Site is selected.
The Summary Report was prepared by GHD Ltd., the Municipality's Lead Consultant and Peer Reviewer.
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Summary of Socio-economic Community Studies and Peer Review Findings |
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The Municipality has been working with the NWMO and its own consultants, led by the firm GHD, to study the potential effects of the Project. The study findings will help to determine if the Project is a good fit for the community. GHD has written an independent summary of all the social and economic studies completed in 2022.
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Willingness |
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Demographics and Growth |
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MDB Insight (now Deloitte) retained metroeconomics to assess the potential for economic and demographic growth over the period from 2022 to 2046 of South Bruce and of the four municipalities surrounding it. MDB indicated an assessment of the area’s potential both as a result of normal growth and as a result of the planning, construction and operation of the Project were required.
This memo summarizes the procedure followed by metroeconomics to develop the required assessments and summarizes the impact results.
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Deep Geological Repository Conceptual Design |
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Aggregate Resources Study A study to determine the supply and demand of aggregate resources for the Project. This includes detailing the existing aggregate in the area, as well as what the future needs would be as a result of the Project. This study will address Guiding Principles #2 (Environmental Protection), #6 (River Access), #21 (Business Opportunities Strategy), #30 (Road Capacity), and #31 (Road Use Agreement). |
Roads and Traffic |
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Local Traffic Effects Study
A study of the potential effects on traffic in South Bruce and the region resulting from the Project. The study will describe current traffic, and determine what, if any, changes or improvements would be needed for traffic management.
This study will address Guiding Principles #2 (Environmental Protection), #3 (Safe Transportation), #7 (Construction/Operation Mitigation), #30 (Road Capacity) and #31 (Road Use Agreement).
Road Conditions Study
A review of existing conditions of roads that may be used for transport, construction and operation of the Project. The study will also identify options for improvements and/or monitoring of the roads.
This study will address Guiding Principles #2 (Environmental Protection), #3 (Safe Transportation), #7 (Construction/Operation Mitigation), #30 (Road Capacity), #31 (Road Use Agreement) and #36 (Regional Benefits).
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Community and Project Infrastructure Needs
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Infrastructure Baseline and Feasibility Study
A review of existing and planned infrastructure in South Bruce and the region. It will also detail what expansion to local infrastructure may be needed to support the Project and community growth and how this could be accomplished.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #18 (Relocating Employees), #27 (Housing Plan), #29 (Infrastructure Strategy), and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
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Project Labour and Workforce |
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Labour Baseline Study
This study will identify opportunities for economic development in the region surrounding South Bruce. As a part of this work, the study will identify regional businesses that could supply equipment, services, and material to the Project; which would keep opportunities and benefits in the area.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts) and #20 (Employment Training Strategy).
Workforce Development Study
This study will describe the labour needs of the Project, and strategies to make sure that the local workforce has the skills to fill these needs if they so choose. As a part of this work, the study will look at how partnerships could be developed with other workplaces in the region with similar needs.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #20 (Employment Training Strategy) and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Local Hiring Effects Study and Strategy
A review of the workforce that the Project will need, as well as the labour needs of other businesses. The study will also look at how to encourage businesses to rely on a strong local workforce through local hiring and/or relocating staff.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #18 (Relocating Employees), #20 (Employment Training Strategy) and #21 (Business Opportunities Strategy).
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Urban Growth |
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Housing Needs and Demand Analysis Study
This study will assess, and plan for sufficient housing based on the needs of the Project during construction and operation. In particular, the study will look at what current accommodations, and residential lands for development are available. It will also identify how much accommodation will be needed, and ways to encourage worker residency within South Bruce.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #27 (Housing Plan), #32 (Community Services Strategy) and #33 (Zoning/Official Plan).
Land Use Study
The study will consider likely changes in land use and development in South Bruce and the region as a result of the Project and address any changes that may be required to Official Plans/By-Laws/Zoning.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #11 (Property Value Protection), 29 (Infrastructure Strategy) and #33 (Zoning/Official Plan).
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South Bruce Economy |
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Economic Development Project Effects and Strategy
A review of the local economy that will also look for potential growth opportunities based on the Project.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #12 (Mitigation for Businesses), #21 (Business Opportunities Strategy) and #22 (Procurement Strategy).
Agriculture Business Impact Study
A study of the Project’s potential effect on the local agriculture/agri-business sector. This includes how NWMO lands could support new agri-business, and how to address potential changes to product or property values.
This study will address Guiding Principles #5 (Maintaining Agricultural Character), #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #13 (Agriculture Strategy), #19 (Centre of Expertise) and #23 (Community Betterment Payments).
Tourism Industry Effects Study
A study of the Project’s potential effect on South Bruce’s existing tourism sector. This includes ways to use the Project and Centre of Expertise to expand local tourism while protecting the unique, existing character of the community.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #12 (Mitigation for Businesses), #14 (Tourism Strategy), #19 (Centre of Expertise) and #23 (Community Benefit Payments).
Regional Economic Development Study
This study will identify opportunities for economic development in the region surrounding South Bruce. As a part of this work, the study will identify regional businesses that could supply equipment, services, and material to the Project; which would keep opportunities and benefits in the area.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #13 (Agriculture Strategy), #14 (Tourism Strategy), #21 (Business Opportunities Strategy), #22 (Procurement Strategy) and #36 (Regional Benefits).
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Financial Impacts |
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Fiscal Impact and Public Finance Study
This study will look at the Project’s overall effect on Municipality’s finances, including potential tax revenue from the Project and potential costs. It will seek strategies for reducing any negative impact on local government finances, and will look at approaches taken regionally and globally with large infrastructure projects.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #23 (Community Betterment Payments), #24 (Willingness Costs), #25 (Peer Reviews), #26 (Regulatory Costs) and #29 (Infrastructure Strategy).
Property Value Protection (PVP) Program
The NWMO launched the PVP Program on February 17th, 2022. While not a study (and therefore not peer-reviewed by municipal consultants), this program addresses Guiding Principle #11:
The NWMO, in consultation with the Municipality, will establish a property value protection program to compensate property owners in the event that property values are adversely affected by the NWMO’s site selection process and the development, construction and/or operation of the Project.
Visit the NWMO website to learn more about the PVP Program. |
Regional Services and Programs |
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Social Programs Study
A study of the Project’s potential impacts on community programs, such as daycare, adult and seniors’ programs. It will describe the current programs and services available, and identify what the increases in demand and cost for these programs would be and strategies to sustain them if the Project moves forward.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #16 (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Vulnerable Populations Baseline and Effects Study
A study that will identify vulnerable populations and current supports, such as subsidized housing. It will consider what effects the Project could have on these supports and programs, and identify ways to minimize any potentially negative impacts.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #16 (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion), #27 (Housing Plan) and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Emergency Services Study
A study of the Project’s potential impacts on local/regional emergency services. It will identify if any changes need to be made to the County Emergency Response plan, and whether there is a need for increased emergency response resources.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #28 (Emergency Services Funding) and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
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Youth and Families |
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Effects on Recreational Resources Study
Building off of the Recreation Master Plan, this study will look at how to meet future demand based on potential growth in South Bruce, if the Project goes forward.
This study will address Guiding Principles #6 (River Access), #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #29 (Infrastructure Strategy and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Economic Development Study on Youth
A study of potential youth job opportunities with and without the Project. It will also look at ways the Project could increase youth education and career opportunities, and considers strategies to attract and retain young skilled employees.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #15 (Youth Investments) and #20 (Employment Training Strategy).
Local Regional Education Study Study
A study of the Project’s potential impacts on education in South Bruce and the region. It will describe the likely increase in school enrollment (K-12) and also outline strategies to maintain or enhance the infrastructure that would be needed, depending on the growth in enrollment.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #15 (Youth Investments), #20 (Employment Training Strategy) and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Recreation Master Plan
A review of current recreational facilities and services which identifies gaps and how to meet future demand based on potential growth in South Bruce, without the Project.
This study will address Guiding Principles #6 (River Access) and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
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Health and Safety |
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Community Health Programs and Infrastructure Study
A study of the existing health services that are in the Core Study area. It will identify considerations and potential options to enhance health care and mitigate possible undesirable effects are as they relate to the Project.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #16 (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Community Health Programs and Infrastructure Study Peer Review
September 7, 2023 CLC Presentation - Preliminary Radiological Safety Study Preliminary Radiological Safety Study A study which describes the various technologies, design, approaches and processes that the NWMO would use to ensure the safety of the community and workers, as well as the protection of the environment and infrastructure from the risk of radiation exposure.
This study will address Guiding Principles #1 (Safety) and #2 (Environmental Protection). Preliminary Radiological Safety Study Preliminary Radiological Safety Study Peer Review Radiation Safety Measures Householder Confidence in Safety Report
The report summarizes the geoscientific, engineering and safety assessment results as of mid-2023 indicating that the South Bruce site would be suitable from a technical perspective for hosting a repository.
Geoscience Reports
The geoscience studies and reports are found on the NWMO reports page. The peer review of this work was completed by GHD and is found below.
These reports will address Guiding Principles #2 (Environmental Protection) and #7 (Construction/Operation Mitigation).
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Environment |
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October 5, 2023 CLC Presentation - Environmental Baseline Program and Change Assessments
NWMO Environmental Fact Sheet Environmental Media Baseline Program – Baseline Summary This report summarizes data that describe existing conditions of environmental features, notably air, land and water. Surface Water Quality, hydrology, soil quality, tissue chemistry and atmospheric data are included in this report. Saugeen Ojibway Nation-South Bruce Area Environmental Media Baseline Program - Year 1 Baseline Report
Environmental Media Baseline Program – Change Assessment
Change assessments consider how potential Project impacts are being considered and how the Project could interact with the environmental components identified in the baseline – air, land and water.
Saugeen Ojibway Nation-South Bruce Site Biophysical Conceptual Site Model Update and Screening Level Change Assessment
Biodiversity Impact Studies – Baseline Summary
This report summarizes data that describe existing conditions of environmental features, specifically related to species, habitats and ecosystems which are included in this report.
Biodiversity Impact Studies – Change Assessment Change assessments consider how potential Project impacts are being considered and how the Project could interact with the environmental components identified in the baseline – species, habitats and ecosystems.
Biodiversity Impact Studies Technical Peer Review Summary Report
These studies will address Guiding Principles #2 (Environmental Protection), #5 (Maintaining Agricultural Character), #6 (River Access) and #7 (Construction/Operation Mitigation). |
Agreements
| Memorandum of Understanding |
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The Municipality of South Bruce and the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in June 2022 The MOU established parameters for negotiating the hosting agreement.
The MOU highlights the NWMO’s commitments if the project is sited in South Bruce. Strikeman Elliot presented an overview of the MOU to Council on June 14, 2022. You can also download the full Memorandum of Understanding document.
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| Multi-Year Funding Agreement |
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As a potential host community, the Multi-Year Funding Agreement (MYFA) with NWMO provides South Bruce with funds to manage the work involved in the site selection process.
The agreement includes funding for core activities, such as administration, staffing, studies and peer reviews, and learning opportunities organized by the South Bruce Nuclear Exploration Team, the municipal department focused on the NWMO Project. The Agreement states that the funding does not constitute consent to hosting the Project. Prior MYFA & amendments:
Initial agreement - July 1, 2020: By Law #2020-53
1st amendment - April 27, 2021: By Law #2021-35
2nd amendment - February 8, 2022: By Law #2022-14
3rd amendment - June 14, 2022: By Law #2022-60
4th amendment - December 13, 2022: By Law #2022-119
5th amendment - July 25, 2023: By Law #2023-62
Updated MYFA with all amendments:
6th amendment - December 12, 2023: By Law #2023-105
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Other Work
Community Project Visioning Report |
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The Community Project Visioning Report was developed in consultation with the community and incorporates feedback and suggestions from nine workshops. This report was used to develop and inform our 36 Guiding Principles.
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Community Surveys |
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The purpose of the 2019 Community Survey (methodological notes) was to understand awareness around the NWMO and the site selection process in the community, as well as to gather information about how to best communicate with the community.
The 2021 Community Survey asked South Bruce ratepayers about their awareness around the Project, the site selection process, willingness and the 36 Guiding Principles. The survey also asked the community about their interest in the various studies that are taking place.
The 2023 Community Survey was commissioned by the Municipality to better understand how well community members understand the Project, what additional information they need, and what topics they are most interested in learning about. The survey was conducted by consulting firm Deloitte. |
Youth Engagement Strategy |
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The Youth Engagement Strategy (appendices) recognizes youth as the leaders of the future and acknowledges how critical it is that their voices are reflected in plans, initiatives and decisions that will directly affect them. The Strategy also seeks to empower youth and support them in the community. Register for the #NextGenNetwork events.
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Community Profiles |
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Deloitte completed two profiles, the Municipality of South Bruce Community Profile and the South Bruce and Core Study Area Profile in early 2023. Each of these reports contain demographics, labour force, business and other data and compares it to County and provincial data.
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Corporate Strategic Plan |
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This Plan defines our community’s vision for the future, and steps that can be taken to get there. It is a guide for Council and staff; providing direction and actions to create a sustainable community that provides economic growth, while protecting the environment and culture we share.
MDB Insight consulted with community members, business owners, municipal staff, council, and community groups in Summer 2021. These discussions provided a clear picture of South Bruce’s strengths and weaknesses, goals, aspirations, as well as what we consider to be important.
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Municipal Economic Development Strategy Update |
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This strategy update analyzes economic development opportunities outside of the NWMO Project and recommends ways to support our business community, and ways to attract new investment.
MDB Insight, who conducted the work for the Municipality of South Bruce in Summer 2021, consulted Council, business owners and community members. The plan identifies three strategic objectives with accompanying priorities and action plans.
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