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August 12, 1968

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DearDr. Seaborg:
The Secretary of the Interior has reported to me that a special
analysis of radiological levels of Bikini Atoll has resulted in
the conclusion that the major islands of the atoll are now safe for

human habitation. The Defense Department has also concluded
that security requirements are such that the return of the former
Bikini people to their traditional home can be accommodated.

The return of these people cannot, however, be accomplished
overnight. There remains the major task of working with the
Bikini leadership in planning the return, of removing any
remaining sources of radiological contamination, of clearing

the land and of replanting it to crops which will sustain human
life and which will provide a source of income. New homes and
new community facilities must be built with the active participation of the returning people. These tasks require resources
beyond the means of the former Bikini people and of the Trust
Territory Government, I, therefore, request you to work with

the Secretary of the Interior and the High Commissioner of the
Trust Territory in planning a comprehensive resettlement
program and to assist them in carrying it out with all possible
dispatch.

incerely,

Odd
Honorable Glenn T. Seaborg
Chairman, United States
Atomic Energy Commission
Washington, D. C. 20545

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