Missouri River is best source of water for nuclear energy in North Dakota, regulator says

[Marlin]

Missouri River is best source of water for nuclear energy in North Dakota, regulator says

https://northdakotamonitor.com/2026/06/16/missouri-river-is-best-source-of-water-for-nuclear-energy-in-north-dakota-regulator-says/

[Core Content]

North Dakota regulators identified the Missouri River as the primary water source for potential nuclear power projects in the state. Officials noted that surface water from the river is preferable to groundwater for cooling requirements. The state continues to discuss water allocation rights with downstream neighbors as the legislative committee evaluates feasibility.

The Advanced Nuclear Energy Committee is currently assessing the regulatory and economic landscape for small modular reactors. State officials highlighted that future development depends on resolving long-term spent fuel storage and decommissioning requirements. These factors remain primary obstacles for the industry as it seeks to establish a framework for siting and managing new nuclear facilities.

A nuclear reactor in North Dakota could require as much water as a coal power plant, and the regulator responsible for managing the state's water resources says the Missouri River is the best available source.

Reice Haase, director of the North Dakota Department of Water Resources, said the state uses less than a spoonful of the gallon of water that is the Missouri River as a water resource. The river is a far better option as a water source than groundwater if a nuclear reactor is built in North Dakota, he said.

"By far, the Missouri River is our greatest resource for surface water in North Dakota," Haase said.

Read the full article at northdakotamonitor.com:
https://northdakotamonitor.com/2026/06/16/missouri-river-is-best-source-of-water-for-nuclear-energy-in-north-dakota-regulator-says/