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Memo Assignment #2: Yucca Mountain

Reading: 

You should read the following readings and come to class prepared to discuss it.  The reading will also help you prepare the written assignment described below.  Other class readings, videos, handouts, and web sites may also be of use in preparing your written assignment.  
  
bulletMemo Assignment #3Should the United States Stop Planning for Permanent Nuclear Waste Disposal at Yucca Mountain
  

Directions:

Write a memo that answers the question posed in the title of the readings.  Be sure that your memo is argumentative in nature and supports your conclusions with examples from the readings or the videos we have seen in class.  When writing your response, be sure to avoid inaccurate stereotypes.  Be sure to read the articles on improving your writing and memos distributed early in the semester as they will help you prepare the assignment. 
  

Web & Other Resources

The following websites and readings may help you in preparing this assignment.
 
bulletSee this collection of articles on closing of Yucca Mountain and its history (Download by clicking here)
bullet GAO Report - Yucca Mountain: Information on alternative Uses of the Site and Related Challenges (GAO-11-847)
bulletInspector General is critical of Nuclear Regularly Agency chief deciding to shut down Yucca Mountain (Gov Exec Article - 6//10/11) - Read the full IG report by clicking here
bullet GAO Testimony - Nuclear Waste: Disposal Challenges and Lessons Learned from Yucca Mountain (GAO-11_731T)
bullet GAO Report - Commercial Nuclear Waste: Effects of a Termination o the Yucca Mountain Repository Program & Lessons Learned (GAO-11_229)
bullet GAO Report - Nuclear Waste Management: Key Attributes, Challenges, and Costs for the Yucca Mountain Repository and Two Potential Alternatives (GAO-10_48)
bullet Handouts - Miscellaneous articles related to Nuclear Power
 
Format of the Written Assignment
This assignment should take the form of a memo.  It is limited to 2 single-spaced, 12 point font pages, with 1 inch margins and must be in a standard memo format.  The reason that a memo format is required is that it is the standard means of communication in the world of business and government.  Thus, these memo assignments will help you to develop your ability to analyze policy questions and to think, act, and communicate more effectively about environmental issues and problems.
  

Grading

Your memo should answer the question posed and be argumentative in nature.  There is no one "right" answer.  Instead, you will be graded on the strength and organization of your arguments as well as the quality of your writing.  You may introduce any facts and evidence you wish to support your arguments.  If you are unfamiliar with how to write a memo please arrange to see me or my graduate assistant during office hours for assistance. 

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