I take issue with a title over the inset on page 24 of the January 2010 issue of Physics Today. It reads “Nuclear Waste Dump Doubles as Low-Radiation Site for Science,” and the story is written by Toni Feder. The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) is not a “dump,” a term that carries the connotation of carelessness. Calling it such demonstrates a lack of understanding regarding the development, permitting, and successful operation of the facility. A review of the information on the website (http://www.wipp.energy.gov) might help.
A thoroughly studied, properly licensed and permitted, and well-documented disposal facility, WIPP is operated with every care given to safety. The contents and location of every waste container are well documented.
