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ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20545

April 2, 1970
R. E. Hollingsworth, GM
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CONFIRMED TO BE UNCLASSIFIED
AUTHORITY: DOE/SA~20

John A. Erlewine, AGMO

FOLLOWUP ON BIKINI MONITORING RESULTS
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In a memo to you dated March 19; 1970, entitled "Environmental Monitoring

Results from Bikini Cleanup Operations" it was stated that somewhat
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higher levels of plutonium-239 and plutonium-240 were found in samples
of Bikini Island soil than previously reported. These new data appear
in draft reports by the Southwestern Radiological Health Laboratory (SWRHL)

and the University of Washington. The results were to be rechecked through
an exchange of soil collections between SWRHL and the University of Wash-

ington and analyses of samples collected in 1967-1969 surveys for which

plutonium determinations have not been made. (These results are to be
available in about two weeks.) A possible need to collect additional soil
samples and to sample plutonium in air was cited.
Meeting on Followup Actions:
A meeting was held on March 25, 1970, to discuss possible followup actions

to be taken on the matter of the Bikini soil samples.
were:
-Dr. Spofford English

Mr.
Dr.
Dr.
Mr.
Mr.

John Erlewine
John Totter
Martin Biles
Robert Catlin
Herman Roser

.-

Those attending

Dr. Gordon Dunning

Dr.
Mr.
Mr,
Mr.
Mr.

Nathanial Barr
Tommy McCraw
Marion Johnson
William Hughes
Robert Newlin

The discussion centered on steps to be taken to confirm the higher levels,
the need to increase the number of soil samples available for analysis
and to obtain air sampling data, the disposition of the two draft reports

which contain the most recent soil data (the higher levels obtained in 1969),

the approach to be taken in planning for collection of additional soil
samples and air samples, the need to coordinate any field trips with the
Department of Interior, “and the need to develop statements for use in
answering any questions about the field trip.

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