410392 Meeting at DBM, AEC 10 July 1958 Robert Conard, Brookhaven, Charles Dunham, DBM Stanton Cohn, Brookhaven John Wolfe, DBM Gordon Dunning, DBM George Anton, Chairman " tt David Bruner, A. H. Seymour, Ed Held, U of W. Dr. Conard set forth the evaluation of hazard to the natives as the primary immediate result needed from the Rongelap surveys. In the original decision to return the Rongelapese to Rongelap Atoll there had been no intimation that part of the population would reside at Eniaetok. Conaxd and Held indicated that collections had been made at Eniaetok and Rongelap to provide data for the assessment of the hazard and that such studies would be continued. The best methods of evaluating levels of various radioisotopes in food were discussed in light of the large amount of variance between in- dividual samples. for one individual Held suggested that "ghost rations" - daily rations - be obtained. Conard said he had one such sample. Dunham recommended that Seymourcontact Hollister and arrange for samples to be analyzed. Recognizing the difficulties in obtaining the natives‘ cooperation, exploration of the idea of collecting more such meals seemed desirable. Conard suggested use of whole body counter in the field to determine levels in food. Held concurred and suggested the use of large samples (100 lbs where available - coconuts) for this purpose with aliquots of thesame material being taken for laboratory analyses. Dunning indicated that there is need for data on average values and that such pooled samples might serve this purpose. Conard introduced the concept that the relationships of the people to their environment could be best evaluated by studies of specific isotopes. To assure comparable data Conard suggested that a central laboratory be designated for radiochemical analyses. Held pointed out the desirability of having the same group responsible for the collection