Sinking, Ships S. A, Earle observed observed no after significant evidence Slowly seeping of from the completing coral growth environment ships an and on-site on and survey of the about degradation the though sunken sunken fuel ships, oils were ammunition casings were corroding, and concluded that the best course of action concerning her cargo is mo action. The gradual dispersion of fuel over the years should have little or no damaging consequences, but releasing massive amounts all at once would without question be detrimental to the marine life. That discussed evening Al (Giddings, Earle's diving partner) and I the fate of the munitions ship "San Francisco Maru" with Kimiuo, and we all concurred: Her cargo is not dangerous if left untouched. The picric acid now locked in the unexploded mines will seep into the sea harmlessly through gradual corrosion, but detonation of those mines would have severe impact on the lagoon. Salvage techniques are dangerous, expensive --and in this case, unnecessary. Based on the resurvey reports of the extremely damaged conditions of the sunken ships contaminated (loss bottom of structural condition that and water surrounds the tight integrity), the BAKER test the site, apparent benign affect on the environment that the ships and test site have on the Bikini experience, and Lagoon the over the relatively past 40 secureness years of the replicating test site the Truk from outside intrusion approximately 25 fathoms (150 feet -- see Figure C-1), it appears inadvisable to attempt salvage. However, no recent on-site resurvey has been accomplished. 4. RECOMMENDATIONS 4.1 on the potential The numerous Bikini Atoll hazards to obstructions map located (Reference should Lomilik be Istand and sited detailed to assess Navigation if rehabilitation and resettlement of the Atoll 3s undertaken, 5000090 C-9) near , C-9