Conservation Law Foundation to Host Discussion and Q&A on Vermont Yankee

CONTACT:
Karen Wood, CLF, (617) 850-1722, kwood@clf.org
Claire Morgenstern, CLF, (617) 850-1743, cmorgenstern@clf.org

BOSTON, MA  June 10, 2010— The Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) will host a discussion and Q&A for community members on the future of the Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Plant today from 6-8 p.m. at the River Garden, 157 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT. The event is free and open to the public.

A panel of CLF energy experts will discuss the plant’s safety record and missteps over the past several years, the current state of affairs at the plant and the ongoing investigation, and Vermont Yankee’s role in the context of New England’s energy future. Residents are invited to attend and take part in a discussion with CLF staff and fellow community members about Vermont Yankee, its impact on the surrounding communities and where we go from here.

For more information about the event, please call: 800.370.0697, x760 or email: events@clf.org. For daily updates about Vermont Yankee, read CLF’s blog, CLF Scoop.

Background

Vermont Yankee has been the subject of ongoing scrutiny due to repeated leaks of radioactive material and management missteps that have raised questions about the owner’s ability to continue to operate the aging plant safely and reliably. CLF has been at the forefront of efforts to hold plant owner Entergy accountable for the ongoing leaks, which have seeped into the soil and groundwater surrounding the plant.

In February, the Vermont State Senate voted not to renew Vermont Yankee’s license for another 20 years after it expires in 2012, citing concerns over the radioactive leaks as well as false statements made under oath by plant officials about the very existence of leaking pipes. The Vermont Public Service Board is currently conducting an investigation of the plant to determine whether it should remain in operation or be shut down immediately, even before the planned 2012 closing. Currently, CLF is continuing to push back against requests by Entergy to delay the investigation and hide information from the public.

The Conservation Law Foundation (www.clf.org) works to solve the most significant environmental challenges facing New England.  CLF’s advocates use law, economics and science to create innovative strategies to conserve natural resources, protect public health and promote vital communities in our region.  Founded, in 1966, CLF is a nonprofit, member-supported organization with offices in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.