Document: NRC Regulatory Guide
Document ID: 01fb3132-b05a-41a0-ab81-466a6fb6f4d3
Document Type: regulatory_guide
Title: Preparation of Environmental Reports for Nuclear Power Plant License Renewal Applications (Rev. 1)
Source: NRC Regulatory Guide Division 4
Source URL: https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML0916/ML091620409.pdf
Revision Date: 2023-06
Chapter: 
Section ID: RG-4.2S1
CFR Part: 
CFR Title: 

Content:
f transport, the ER should describe the potential effects on the terrestrial environment. DG-4015, Page 35 Impingement and Entrainment of Aquatic Organisms (Plants with Once-Through Cooling Systems or Cooling Ponds) This section applies to plants with once-through and cooling pond heat dissipation systems. Table B-1 notes the following: The impacts of impingement and entrainment are small at many plants but may be moderate or even large at a few plants with once-through and cooling-pond cooling systems, depending on cooling system withdrawal rates and volumes and the aquatic resources at the site. Specifically, 10 CFR 51.53(c)(3)(ii)(B) requires, in part, the following: If the applicant’s plant utilizes once-through cooling or cooling pond heat dissipation systems, the applicant shall provide a copy of current Clean Water Act 316(b) determinations…or equivalent State permits and supporting documentation. If the applicant can not provide these documents, it shall assess the impact of the proposed action on fish and shellfish resources resulting from heat shock and impingement and entrainment. Section 4.6.1.2 of the GEIS discusses this issue. If the plant does not use a once-through cooling or closed-cycle cooling pond heat dissipation system, the ER should note this fact, and no additional information need be provided. If the plant uses a once-through or closed-cycle cooling pond heat dissipation system and the applicant holds a current Clean Water Act Section 316(b) determination, the applicant should provide the NRC with copies of the determination, supporting documentation, and relevant correspondence with the water quality permitting agency (EPA or permitting State agency). Additionally, the ER should describe any potential mitigation measures and state whether they will be implemented. If (1) the plant utilizes a once-through or cooling pond heat dissipation system and (2) the applicant does not possess a current Clean Water Act Section 316(b) determination,