45 . PY ad to environmental conditions should not threaten the vigor and viability of the species. This consideration alone affords a wide margin of safety when considering possible ecological effects of environmental levels of radiation . t Question 7B ' In your opinion, is there any threat to animals or plants if"present nuc lear policies continue indefinitely, unchanged? Answer 7B As long as environmental levels of radiation limit risk to man to acceptable levels, most biologists would consider that they represent no threat to other species. | ‘ In other words, can we increase the use of Plowshare explosives and nuclear reactors indefinitely, without needing to consider any additional controls over consequent environmental contamination? Question 7D If we cannot, how soon do you think we should start discussing additional controls? Answer 7C and 7D At present, the use of Plowshare explosives and nuclear reactors is . subject to the guidance of the FRC and regulatory agencies. Any increased “use in the future would also be subject to this guidance. Should changes in the controls concerning environmental contamination be necessary for any reason, these organizations would undoubtedly initiate suitable precautions for protecting the public health and safety.