A summary of geologic studies through January 1, 1983, of a potential high-level radioactive waste repository site at Yucca Mountain, southern Nye County, Nevada

Abstract

PREFACEYucca Mountain in southern Nye County, Nevada has been under investigation since late 1977 to determine its suitability as the site for an underground repository for the permanent isolation of high-level radioactive waste.It has been the principle responsibility of the U.S. GeologicalSurvey, under agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy, to characterize the geology and hydrology of the potential site and the surrounding region.The present report covers the geologic factors of concern in evaluating the potential repository site. It is preliminary because most of the investigations are still in progress. The discussion generally includes data acquired before January 1, 1983. As investigations are concluded, additional reports will complete the description of specific aspects of the geology of Yucca Mountain.The technical data discussed in this report largely result from investigations by members of the U.S. Geological Survey, with a contribution by LosAlamos National Laboratory to the discussion of volcanism and volcanic haz- Major physiographic elements and landforms of an internally drained interraontane basin............ Earthquake