A major step in the U.S. Department of Energy's process of selecting a site for the nations first high-level nuclear waste repository is detailed site characterization the purpose of site characterization is to determine if a site is suitable for a repository. During site characterization. Two 12 foot shafts will be constructed to the repository depth of about 2500 feet. This will permit testing of the host rock where the waste would be placed. Two Shafts are required. One shaft will provide access for workers and supplies, a second shaft will be used for the removal of excavated materials.