NWTRB, an independent federal agency charged with evaluating the scientific & technical aspects of the U.S. nuclear waste management program, produced this report reviewing programmatic developments & Board activities during CY 1996. Included is an overview of the entire program; a summary of progress in 1996, especially in characterizing the Yucca mountain site; a review of hydrologic issues & issues related to predicting the performance of the overall nuclear waste repository system; & a discussion of the design of waste packages & repository facilities. References. Glossary.