Public Asked to Weigh In on Proposed Nuclear Shipments to Idaho

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Federal officials say they're taking public comments on a plan to ship two loads of spent nuclear fuel rods to eastern Idaho for research.

The U.S. Department of Energy in a statement says comments will be taken through July 13 on its draft of whether more environmental analysis is needed. The 60-page document can be viewed at the agency's website under the Idaho Operations Office, Public Involvement Opportunities. The agency has proposed sending up to 220 pounds of nuclear fuel rods to the Idaho National Laboratory.

The agency in a statement Thursday says no decision has been made yet concerning the destination of the proposed shipments. Scientists say the fuel rods are needed for research, but opponents contend allowing the shipments will bring additional waste to Idaho for storage.