By Lindsey Doi

EUGENE, Ore. -- Nuclear waste is a big concern for folks in Hanford, Washington. Monday night, the Department of Energy is holding a public meeting to tell local residents how it might impact them as well.

Organizers say their goal is to educate Eugene residents about the Hanford Nuclear Site. The actual plant is in Washington. It sits on the Columbia River, linking all of these cities to potential environmental hazards caused by leaking nuclear waste.

Though Eugene is about two hours south of the Columbia, organizers say they chose to hold a public hearing in Eugene to educate residents about what's going on in the neighborhoods around them.

"I think what we're asking for is what are people's values, what are some of their priorities related to cleanup, and maybe just get an understanding of what goes on at Hanford," said meeting organizer Mary Burandt.

So far, public meetings have been held in six other Pacific Northwest cities, including Portland.

Organizers say they've heard a wide range of public comment, all of which will help shape their final impact statement.

The meeting will take place at 6 p.m. at the Hilton Hotel Conference Center. Organizers hope for a good turnout and expecte anywhere from 50 to 500 people to attend.