Board Wants Riskiest Waste Cleaned First

The Citizens’ Advisory Board to the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory wants the U.S. Department of Energy to make sure it spends its cleanup money on eliminating the riskiest hazards first.

The board made its 10th and 11th recommendations this week since its formation last year. One set out principles for managers to use when prioritizing cleanup projects. The other asked for a better land-use plan.

The 15-member board consists of Idaho residents from throughout the state and from varied backgrounds. The Energy Department reviews their recommendations in environmental matters but is not bound by them.

The board had no trouble arriving at cleanup priorities during its two-day meeting in Idaho Falls, but did squabble over whether the exercise was worthwhile.

Board member Chuck Broscious of Troy said the list would have no effect on managers because it does not examine the proposed projects.