Mr. James Berg July 5, 1977 Page 3 did not so long ago. In fact, those adjustment problems are well known since the experiences have been passed on from one generation to the other, Moreover, many are still living who vividly recall the relocation and the problems they and others experienced. Hence, given the information, one would wonder why over 60 percent of the Enewetakese who never lived on the atoll would want to give up present life styles and attempt. to return to a way of life long forgotten or never experienced. The relocation af people to an area once used as a nuclear bomb test site has far-reaching implications. On the one hand, if the groups return and manage to survive the effects of contamination much can be said about the generalizability of this to future groups caught in Similar circumstances. Tt suggests that people can be evacuated from an area where the danger of radiation contamination is high and then return thirty years Later to resuime daily living patterns. I understand that recently a few Bikinians ate fruit containing “cesium,” a highly radioactive substance and became extremely ill. IT am aware of the current joint efforts of the Energy Researchand Development Administration, the Department of Defense and the Department of the Interior as it pertains to the rehabitation effort. My almost daily communication with residents of Enewetak and Majuro keen me informed of progress. Continued monitoring o£ radioactive levels is important as are continued efforts to communicate risks to the groups. However, I would propose that considerable effort be taken to systematically document and assess the full rehabitation process over a two- to three-year period. From my experience in working with American Indian groups involved in similar relocation efforts, t can assure you that the transition will not be a smooth one. The following questions are but a partial list of issues that could be addressed: lL. What steps will be taken to assist the islanders to 2. What relearning of former methods of subsistence will occur and what will be their effect on the quality of life? 3. What norms and sanctions will emerge that will prevent islanders from frequenting of f-limit areas? How will they be enforced? 4, eventually develop a self-supporting economy? To what extent have western ways affected the culture of the people?