Deep River is a long-standing nuclear host community and is closely connected to the nearby Chalk River Laboratories, one of Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology sites. The laboratories are operated by Canadian Nuclear Laboratories on behalf of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited under a government-owned, contractor-operated model.

Established in the 1940s, the Chalk River site has played a foundational role in Canada’s nuclear program, including world-leading contributions to nuclear research and the production of medical isotopes used globally. Today, the site is undergoing a significant transformation into a modern, state-of-the-art campus for nuclear science, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

Key activities associated with the site include:

• Nuclear Research and Innovation – Advancing reactor technologies, materials science, clean energy solutions, and health applications, including the legacy of global leadership in medical isotope production
• Environmental Remediation and Waste Management – Safe, long-term management of historic nuclear materials and cleanup of legacy sites
• Decommissioning of Historic Facilities – Responsible shutdown and dismantling of older reactors and infrastructure from earlier phases of Canada’s nuclear development
• Campus Modernization and Renewal – Ongoing transformation into a world-class nuclear research and technology hub

Together, these activities reflect the evolution of Canada’s nuclear sector—from early scientific discovery to a globally recognized centre for innovation, expertise, and long-term environmental stewardship.