Host town hall meetings and use multiple formal channels to ensure all impacted local governments and states are regularly informed of current and potential activities.

Emphasize that the safety response systems in place at WIPP worked as they were designed to contain the release.

Support the US Environmental Protection Agency to conduct independent tests and studies that can assist and verify monitoring assets already in the area. There should be transparency, and early and full disclosure of any findings to all impacted parties.

Coordinate with the site contractor (Nuclear Waste Partnership, LLC) to analyze exposure to workers on site and address potential health concerns. Status reports regarding health, radiation and exposure should also be provided to the public so there is a clear understanding of what is actually occurring at the site.

Ensure that other DOE sites understand the impact of the incident on facility operation and DOE's Environmental Management program.

Work with the New Mexico Environment Department to explore the possibility of extended temporary storage above ground at WIPP beyond changes recently implemented.

Examine other alternatives for TRU waste management in light of existing cleanup commitments.