An agricultural survey was completed by the writer along
with the AEC survey team consisting of personnel from the
University of Washington, USN Radiological Defense Laboratory,
AEC, N.Y. Health and Safety Laboratory, Division of Operational
Safety and
the Division of Biology and Medicine on the former
nuclear testing ground of Bikini Atoll, during the period of
April 23 to May 7, 1967.
The primary purpose of the survey was
to determine the residual radioactivity on the islands.
radioactivity from the many nuclear test
The
shots conducted in
Bikini will affect the final decision to repatriate the former
Bikini people to their original homes.
The agricultural survey
considered the physical and ecological characteristics, with
general recommendations for reclamation of the islands towards
complete rehabilitation of the atoll.
It can be said that
Bikini, like most all coralline atolls, affords an environment
not harsh, but marked by a lack of diversity----agriculture is
one of copra production and at a subsistence level.
Thus,
the
major emphasis should be on the cultivation of coconuts and
other local subsistence crops which are suited to these
conditions.
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As the radiation levels on the atoll decrease to a point
safe for human habitation, preparations toward the repatriation
of the Bikini people now residing on Kili Island should be
seriously considered.
It may well be, according to final deci-
sions from the administering authorities and the Atomic Energy
Commission, that Bikini may be granted a safe bill of health for