-~ 2equipment, were used in the radiological survey of Enewetak in connection with the cleanup and planned resettlement of that atoll, also a part of the Marshall Islands. The airborne gamma-ray detcctors are Similar to those used in locating radioactive debris from the Soviet satellite that fell over northern Canada last January. . The complex scientific survey will be operated from the Navy ship USNS Wheeling. This will permit DOE sclientists.to cover a wide geographical area, fly at low altitudes, and document the radioactivity on the islands with precision. In addition to radiation measurements, project scientists will obtain soil, plant, “ish and animal. samples from each of the atolls and two islands for laboratory analysis. The resulting report will provide an assessment of the potential radioactive exposure to island residents. However, several of the islands to be surveyed are not inhabited, and same of then are used only for gathering food. DOE and the Interior Department expect to announce preliminary findings of the aerial survey in January 1979, after field operations are completed. ~ DOE - NOTE TO EDITORS: DOE is looking into the possibility of accommodating reporters who wish to accompany the scientific team for part of the aerial survey. Interested members of the news media should contact Len Arzt, 202/376-4192. This news release is also being issued by the | Department of the Interior and the Department of the_ Navy. News Media Contact: ’- Len Arzt, R-78-295 VI-5 9002131 202/376-4192 | . / .