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its knowledge of surface and deep ocean currents and the transmissior
of radioactive fallout through the marine food chain to man.
Further, because of the possible future need for disposal of radioactive
wastes in the oceans, the Committee felt that the AEC should expand
its support of occangraphic studies directed at gaining more precise
knowledge of the movements of water at greater depths.
Ecology
Prorram
seca Ee beete
Dr, Wolfe presented an interesting summary on the
Ecology research program,
He brought out that it may be well to
broaden the present program both with regard to fundamentals and
geography.
He pointed out that numerous ecological researches are
under way scattered throughout the several branches,
It was proposed that research areas of possible interest to the AEC
might include:
1.
The study of whole commnities in essential equilibrium with
environment (primeval areas) as well as domesticated communities
in various climatic areas of the U,S, in terms of fallout,
reactor wastes, experimental techniques with isotopes,
2.
The support of fundamental biological surveys in the field in
various climatic regions of the U,S., anticipating the widespread establishment of reactors (or future technological
developments) in these areas, These areas would require
long-time protection,
3.
The study of high mountain habitats in region tests, aquatic
and Terrestrial; in terms of fallout, natural dynamics of
biological cycles, plant and anima) populatinns in naturally
radioactive areas (mineral springs, uranium concentrations).
4.
Exploration of the possibility of Weather Bureau stations and
Agriculture Experiment Farms Cooperatives in carrying out
certain phases of the program,
But it is suggested that field
studies be major, laboratory investigations supplemental.
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