The nuclear power plant in Monticello will be undergoing a test of emergency responders in the event of a “nuclear incident”. The drill is scheduled for Wednesday, August 10th, and will involve both state and county emergency services. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety reminds residents in the area that they should not be concerned about the presence of emergency response teams for the duration of the drill.

The Monticello plant has been in operation for about 40 years, and in that time has seen no incidents requiring the kind of response the drill is simulating. The most significant accident in the plant’s history occurred in 1982 when radioactive water leaked into the Mississippi River. The level of radiation in the leaked water was well below safe limits, and no health issues were reported in connection with the event.