DOE Strengthens Hanford Advisory Board, Empowers Local Community

RICHLAND, Wash. – The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Environmental Management (EM), in coordination with the Hanford Field Office, is strengthening the Hanford Advisory Board to enhance engagement with those who live closest to Hanford and to align with the governance model used at sites across the country.

“Hanford deeply values the community we call home and is committed to continuing our work with the Hanford Advisory Board,” said Ray Geimer, DOE Hanford Field Office Manager. “Improving the Hanford Advisory Board will ensure continuity and efficiency while empowering those who live, work and raise their families closest to Hanford.”

Beginning October 1, 2026, the Hanford Advisory Board will transition to a modernized membership model. Under the new model, approximately 20 people will serve on the Hanford Advisory Board with an increased focus on local community members. The modernized model emphasizes community representation, broadens opportunities for interested citizens to participate, and aligns Hanford with the operating framework successfully used by the nation’s seven other EM site-specific advisory boards.

The board’s mission remains unchanged with members providing policy-level advice and recommendations in support of the Hanford mission.

The modernized model reflects a continued commitment to meaningful public engagement in Hanford cleanup and ensures compliance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act, the charter that governs all DOE Office of Environmental Management advisory boards, and governance requirements.

Hanford will continue working closely with federal, state, tribal and local partners throughout the transition and will provide additional information as implementation progresses.