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than those occurring in U. S. population during the high fallout period
1963-1964.
None the less, these levels are below those currently expe-
rienced by some portions of the Eskimo population.
By removing specific
locally produced food items, and substituting important nutrients, the
Bikini diet will contain about the levels of radioactivity deemed acceptable to world population in recent years.
Sources of exposure will have to be evaluated and decisions reached
whether or not to take action to minimize exposure through the various
pathways that may be present.
In addition, one should weigh, with some
compassion, the present socio-economic stress of displacement and the
fact that life away from Bikini is quite depressing to say the least.
The following time-table was proposed for consideration of the radiological health aspects:
1. Completion by late March of a draft report
synthesizing pertinent available data from the 1967 survey, and submission
of this report to a working group.
2.
Consideration of report by working
group and presentation of a final report to panel of independent experts
for review and recommendation after mid-April.
It was agreed that the
schedule recommended for completion of this evaluation was reasonable.
It
was pointed out that even when the health and safety considerations are
met, and the USAF relinquishes title to the area, it will take some two
or more years to complete the rehabilitation program (clearing land,
planting coconut and other crops, building houses and the like).
Thus
an early finding regarding radiological safety would facilitate the entire
program.
Prepared by:
John R. Totter, Director, DBM
Philip F. Gustafson, DBM ¥7~
WERE reopee
Roy D. Maxwell, OS etl