Environmental Impact Statement - radioactive monticello

Appendix A
Comment: The NRC does not address the fact that while torrential down pours followed by
days of hot dry weather used to be unusual in the state ten years ago, they have become
common; cities are scrambling to address rapidly changing water levels that fluctuate from
unusually high to unusually low. (MS-S-24)
Comment: Item 12 & 13, Physical Impacts on Water resources, Water Use. Xcel Energy uses
water to cool reactors and this topic should be addressed in the EIS, because of the definite
and apparent impacts on local aquifers and water resources. (MS-X-4)
Comment: The EIS needs to tabulate concisely how much of which contaminant is estimated
to have been released for the past 2 decades of operation. The EIS needs to show water flow
rates and respective volumes in which continuous and batch releases have and are expected to
occur, and model the effects of these releases, taking into consideration latest scientific
evidence (see 3,4,5)- not the references from 10 years ago as in the generic EIS. This
modeling should include mitigating factors related to global climate change, such as volatile
changes in available water quantity, especially of the Mississippi River. The EIS needs to show
how adequate water monitoring would be performed, by whom and who would pay for it.
(MS-Y-35)
Response: The specific impacts of climate change within a particular region or watershed are
* highly speculative, and are therefore beyond the scope of a NEPA review for reactor license
renewal. Furthermore, any changes in watershed characteristics would likely be gradual,
allowing water-use conflicts to be resolved as needed. Operating license holders are required
to submit Annual Effluent Monitoring Reports and are also required to submit event reports
during abnormal conditions. Water use conflicts will be discussed in Chapter 4 of the SEIS.
5..ei
Comments Concerning Aquatic Ecology Issues
Comment: The EIS must consider the impact of hot water discharges into the Mississippi river
on aquatic plant, animal and human life. (MS-V-10)
Response: The comment is related to aquatic ecology. Impacts to aquatic species will be
addressed in Chapter 4 of the SEIS.
6. Comments Concerning Terrestrial Resource Issues
Comment: Monticello is a strong supporter of the environment. We take great care in our
daily activities to ensure that the environment is well protected. Our employees feel fortunate
that the location of Monticello rests on the bank of the Mississippi River within the reaches of
the Montissippi County Park and the Lake Maria State Park. The site is home to numerous
wildlife, aquatic species and plant life. Our efforts have made Monticello a safe and sound
habitat for many years, and it remains our commitment to maintain that for years to come.
(MS-A-6; MS-l-6)
August 2006 A-1 5 NUREG-1437, Supplement 26 1