14 in the laboratory are possible. Although most natural resources are in short supply,atolls do have extensive shallow water areas with lots of sunshine. These areas should be ideal nursery grounds for growing clams. The research would involve developing techniques for a form of mariculture particularly well suited for the atoll environment. 1) Facilities Maintenance Engineer The FY 80 budget reflects a new position: a Facilities Maintenance Engineer. The justification for this position is based on the need for a full time person to maintain the MPML facilities following the departure of all other personnel upon the completion of the clean-up in mid-1980. The salary figure _is based on recommendations from Mr. Roger Loftfield of Holmes and Narver. He does not believe a competent man with the necessary skills can be gotten for less. We have requested -75 man years in 1980 on the basis that he will need 3 months to familiarize himself with the MPML facility before maintaining it on a fully operational self-sustaining basis. Major operations will be the fueling maintenance of the generators, the effective maintenance and use of the water- catchment and cistern system, the upkeep and periodic use of a back-up fresh water supply system, routine maintenance of air conditioners, pumps, drying ovens, boats and motors, and a rome, vehicle. To these tasks must be added maintenance, including corrosion control, and minor repair of the buildings. Obviously