Un;eoS:,iles Na! o-a A,' a-d R'A 402-R-93
EnviroTi<;i:a; P'o:
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ENVIRONMENTAL
RADIATION
DATA
REPORT 70
April-June 1992
United States Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Radiation and Indoor Air
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Preface
Environmental Radiation Data (ERD) is compiled and distributed quarterly by the Of-
fice of Radiation and Indoor Air's National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory
(NAREL) in Montgomery, Alabama, and contains data from the Environmental Radiation
Ambient Monitoring System (ERAMS). Data from similar networks operated by contribut-
ing States, Canada, Mexico, and the Pan American Health Organization are reported in the
ERD when available.
ERAMS was established in 1973 by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
It is comprised of a nationwide network of sampling stations that provide air, surface and
drinking water, and milk samples from which environmental radiation levels are derived.
The major emphasis for ERAMS is upon identifying trends in the accumulation of long-
lived radionuclides in the environment.
Sampling locations are selected to provide optimal population coverage while functioning
to monitor fallout from nuclear devices and other forms of radioactive contamination of the
environment. The radiation analyses performed on these samples include gross alpha and
gross beta levels, gamma analyses for fission products, and specific analyses for uranium,
plutonium, strontium, iodine, radium, krypton, and tritium. This monitoring effort also
provides ancillary information on natural background levels and on routine and accidental
releases into the environment from stationary sources.
The radiochemical procedures used by NAREL to analyze the ERAMS samples are con-
tained in the Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility Radiochemistry Procedures Manual
(EPA 520/5-84-006). Station operation and sample collection are in accordance with pro-
cedures contained in the ERAMS Manual (EPA 520/5-84-007, 008, 009).
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Contents
Data Repotting Rationale
ERAMS Data
1. Air Program
• Airborne Participates and Precipitation
• Plutonium and Uranium in Airborne Participates and Piecipitation
• Krypton-85
2. Water Program
• Surface Water
• Drinking Water
3. External Gamma Ambient Monitoring Program
4. Milk Program
• Pasteurized Milk
• Strontium-90
• Carbon-14 in Milk
Page
ix
1
1
1
15
20
21
21
24
27
28
28
35
36
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Tables
Table
1
ERAMS Reporting Increments and Minimum Detectable Levels
for Radionuclide Analyses
2 Gross Beta in Airborne Particulates: April 1992
3 Gross Beta in Airborne Particulates: May 1992
4 Gross Beta in Airborne Particulates: June 1992
5 Gross Beta and Specific Gamma in Precipitation: April 1992
6 Gross Beta and Specific Gamma in Precipitation: May 1992
7 Gross Beta and Specific Gamma in Precipitation: June 1992
8 Tritium in Precipitation: April-June 1992
9 Plutonium and Uranium In Airborne Particulates: January-June 1992 Composites
10 Plutonium and Uranium Analyses In Precipitation: January-June 1992 Composites
11 Tritium in Surface Water: April-June 1992
12 Tritium in Drinking Water: April-June 1992
13 Radionuclides in Pasteurized Milk: April 1992
14 Radionuclides in Pasteurized Milk: May 1992
15 Radionuclides in Pasteurized Milk: June 1992
16 Stiontium-90 in Pasteurized Milk: April 1992
Page
xi
2
4
6
8
9
11
13
16
18
22
25
29
31
33
35
VII
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Data Reporting Rationale
Frequently, there is little or no radioactivity in environmental media. Thus, the results
of laboratory analyses should show a distribution of negative and positive numbers about
zero. A negative value occurs when a previously determined background value is subtracted
from a sample value that is less than that of the background. From July 1975 to March
1991, ERAMS data were reported as calculated, whether the results were negative, zero, or
positive. Since April 1991, negative results have been denoted as "not detectable," or "ND."
For gamma analyses only, results less than the 2a counting error are also denoted as "not
detectable."
All data are stored in the NAREL sample database as generated, and these values are
available for statistical evaluation. However, caution should be exercised in the use of the
data in this report for statistical analysis, since the removal of negative numbers produces a
positive bias in the distribution of results.
Reported Error Terms
Each reported value for specific analyses will be accompanied by a counting error term
at the la (95%) confidence level. Error terms are therefore reported as counting errors.
At the very low levels characteristic of most ERAMS measurements, counting error is
the greatest contributor to overall error.
Significant Figures
No more than three significant figures will be reported. A datum that contains more
than three figures will be rounded off to three figures.
Reporting Levels
The reporting units, smallest increments for reporting, and typical minimum detectable
levels (MDL's) for each isotope are shown in Table 1. MDL is defined as the 3
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Table 1
ERAMS Reporting Increments and Minimum Detectable Levels
for Radionuclide Analyses
Radionuclide
Gross Alpha
t Gross Beta
Tritium
Carbon- 14
Krypton-85
ft Plutonium-238,239,240
J Uranium-234,235,238
Radium-226
Strontium-90
It Strontium-89
U Iodine-131
Iodine-129
Cesium- 137
U Barium- 140
Potassium
Potassium- 40
Media
Water
Air
Water
Precipitation
Reporting
Units
pCi/L
pCi/m3
pCi/L
nCi/m2
Reporting
Increments
1 pCi/L
0.01 pCi/m3
1 pCi/L
0.01 nCi/m2
Minimum
Detectable
Levels
2 pCi/L
0.01 pCi/m3
1 pCi/L
0.01 nCi/mz
(specific radiochemical analyses)
Water
Milk
Milk
Ambient Air
Air
Milk
Water
Air
Milk
Water
Water
Milk
Water
Milk
Milk
Water
Water
Milk
Milk
Water
Milk
Water
Milk
Water
Water
nCi/L
nCi/L
pCi/L
pCi/m3
aCi/m3
pCi/L
pCi/L
aCi/ra3
pCi/L
PCi/L
pCi/L
pCi/L
pCi/L
pCi/L
pCi/L
pCi/L
pCi/L
fCi/L
pCi/L
pCi/L
PCi/L
pCi/L
8/L
g/L
pCi/L
0.1 nCi/L
0.1 nCi/L
1 pCi/L
0.1 pCi/m3
0.1 aCi/m3
0.001 pCi/L
0.001 pCi/L
0.1 aCi/m3
0.001 pCi/L
0.001 pCi/L
0.1 pCi/L
0.1 pCi/L
0.1 pCi/L
1 pCi/L
1 pCi/L
1 pCi/L
O.lpCi/L
O.lfCi/L
1 pCi/L
1 pCi/L
1 pCi/L
1 pCi/L
0.1 g/L
0.1 g/L
1 pCi/L
0.2 nCi/L
0.2 nCi/L
15 pCi/L
2 pCi/m3
0.015 pCi
0.015 pCi
0.015 pCi
0.016 pCi
0.015 pCi
0.015 pCi
0.1 PCi/L
1 pCi/L
1 pCi/L
5 pCi/L
10 pCi/L
10 pCi/L
0.4 pCi/L
0.4 fCi/L
10 pCi/L
10 pCi/L
10 pCi/L
10 pCi/L
0.12 g/L
0.12 g/L
100 pCi/L
f The value of MDL for precipitation in terms of nCi/m would be dependent on precipitation (nun).
tf Thia value of MDL for air in termi of pCi/m would be dependent on the air volume. Meaiurement by alpha ipectroicopy
that includes contributions of plutonium-239 and plutonium-240. MDL for all media given per (ample.
t This value of MDL for air in terms of pCi/m would be dependent on the air volume. MDL for all media given per lample.
Jt Activity as of the day of counting.
XI
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1. Air Program
Airborne Particulates and Precipitation
Gross beta radioactivity measurements and certain specific analyses are performed on
air particulates and precipitation samples as indicator measurements in assessing the general
(national) impact of all contributing sources on environmental levels of radiation.
Airborne particulates are collected continuously at field stations representing wide ge-
ographic coverage, including present and potential sources of environmental radioactivity.
Sampling sites are located throughout the United States.
Filters (10-cm diameter synthetic fiber) from air samplers are changed twice weekly
and field measurements are made with a G-M survey meterf at 5 hours and 29 hours after
collection to allow for radon and thoron daughter product decay. Field estimates are reported
to appropriate EPA officials by telephone or mail depending on the activity levels found.
The filters are sent to NAREL for more sensitive analyses in a low background beta
counter. Gamma scans are performed on all filters showing gross beta counts greater than
IpCi/m . The laboratory obtained values are usually lower than the field estimates due to
the decay of naturally occurring radionuclides between the times of the two measurements.
Precipitation samples are collected at those field stations collecting air filters. These
samples are also sent to NAREL where they are composited monthly for gamma scans,
tritium, and gross beta activity measurements. A composite of the March, April, and May
precipitation samples is analyzed for plutonium-238, -239, -240, and uranium-234, -235, and
-238.
A compilation of individual measurements is available from the National Air and Radi-
ation Environmental Laboratory, 540 South Morris Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36115-2601.
Tables 2-4 contain the data from airborne particulate samples for April-June 1992.
Tables 5-7 contain the data from precipitation samples for April-June 1992. Table 8 contains
the data from tritium in precipitation samples for April-June 1992 at the selected sites.
I The counts at five hours for the Montgomery, Alabama, station art performed on a low background beta counter.
1
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Table 2
Gross Beta in Airborne Participates
April 1992
Location
AL: Montgomery
AR:Little Rock
iZ: Phoenix
CA: Berkeley
CA:Loa Angeles
CO : Denver
CT: Hartford
DE: Wilmington
FL : Jacksonville
FL: Miami
HI : Honolulu
IA:IoHa City
ID:Boiae
ID: Idaho Falls
IL: Chicago
II: Indianapolis
KS:Topeka
XT: Frankfort
LA: Hew Orleans
Mi : Lawrence
ME: August a
MI: Lansing
HH: Minneapolis
MO: Jefferson City
MS : Jackson
HC: Charlotte
MC: Wilmington
MD:Bismarck
ME : Lincoln
VH : Concord
HJ: Trenton
MM: Santa Fe
HV:Las Vegas
IT: Albany
VT:Hiagara Falls
IT: Syracuse
IT : Taphank
Number
of
Samples
3
6
4
8
8
8
9
7
5
9
7
8
7
8
8
7
7
4
7
8
7
9
6
7
6
7
6
6
3
8
8
8
9
5
8
3
10
6-Hour Field
Estimate
Max Hin Avg
(pCi/m3)
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.5 0.1 0.3
1.0 0.4 0.8
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.6 0.0 0.2
1.0 0.1 0.5
0.2 0.0 0.0
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.2 0.1 0.1
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.2 0.1 0.1
0.3 0.0 0.2
1.0 0.1 0.5
0.0 0.0 0.0
O.G 0.1 0.3
1.0 0.0 0.3
2.1 0.1 0.8
0.3 0.1 0.2
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.2 0,1 0.1
1.2 0.1 0.6
0.3 0.0 0.2
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.0 0.0 0.0
1.3 0.1 0.8
0.6 0.2 0.4
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.8 0.1 0.3
0.4 0.1 0.3
0.3 0.1 0.2
O.E 0.0 0.2
0.3 0.0 0.1
0.1 0.0 0.0
0.2 0.0 0.1
NAREL Lab
Measurement
Max Min Avg
(pCi/m3)
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.06 0.01 0.02
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
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Table 2 (continued)
Gross Beta in Airborne Participates
April 1992
Location
OH : Columbus
OH:Painaaville
OH: Rosa
OH: Toledo
OK: Oklahoma City
OR: Portland
PA:HarriBburg
RI: Providence
SCiBftmsell
SC: Columbia
SD: Pierre
TH:Knoxville
TH:Haahville
TI: Austin
TI:E1 Paso
UT:Salt Lake City
Vi : Lynchburg
Vi: Virginia Beach
WA : Olympia
WA: Spokane
WI:MadiBon
Number
of
Samples
4
6
8
9
4
7
9
7
3
8
3
8
8
7
8
9
9
2
8
9
9
5-Hour Field
Estimate
Max Kin Avg
(PCi/m3)
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.3 0.0 0.1
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.9 0.1 0.4
0.7 0.3 0.5
0.0 0.0 0.0
O.S 0.1 0.2
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.4 0.0 0.2
0.4 0.3 0.4
0.9 0.2 0.5
0.4 0.0 0.3
0.2 0.0 0.1
1.3 O.S 0.8
0.5 0.0 0.3
0.6 0.2 0.3
0.1 0.1 0.1
0.5 0.1 0.2
0.5 0.1 0.3
0.5 0.1 0.3
HAREL Lab
Measurement
Max Kin ivg
(pCi/B3)
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.03 0.01 0.02
0.02 0.01 0.02
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
Limit for field estimates - 0.1 pCi/m3.
Limit for laboratory measurement - 0.01 pCi/m .
Minimum Detectable
Minimum Detectable
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Table 3
Gross Beta in Airborne Particulates
May 1992
Location
AL: Montgomery
AR: Little Rock
AZ: Phoenix
CA: Berkeley
CA:Los Angeles
CO: Denver
CT: Hartford
DE: Wilmington
FL: Jacksonville
FL: Miami
HI: Honolulu
IA:Iowa City
ID:Boise
ID: Idaho Falls
IL: Chicago
IN : Indianapolis
KS:Topeka
KT: Frankfort
LA: New Orleans
Hi : Lawrence
HE: Augusta
Ml: Lans ing
MI: Minneapolis
MO: Jefferson City
MS : Jackaon
RC: Charlotte
1C: Wilmington
MD: Bismarck
HE: Lincoln
NH : Concord
KJ: Trent on
DM: Santa Fe
H?:Las Vegas
HY: Albany
NT: Niagara Falls
HY: Syracuse
NT:Taphank
Humber
of
Samples
6
8
4
8
9
8
8
9
8
8
7
8
9
9
9
8
6
3
8
8
8
8
7
8
8
9
5
8
1
9
8
9
8
4
9
3
7
5-Hour Field
Estimate
Max Min Avg
(pCi/m3)
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.5 0.1 0.3
0.4 0.1 0.3
0.1 0.0 0.0
1.5 0.0 0.2
1.3 0.2 0.6
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.4 0.0 0.2
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.1 0.0 0.0
0.2 0.1 0.1
O.S 0.1 0.3
0.6 0.1 0.4
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.8 0.1 0.3
0.7 0.2 O.B
4.5 1.0 1.7
0.4 0.2 0.3
0.2 0.1 O.i
0.3 0.0 0.1
0.5 0.1 0.2
0.4 0.1 0.3
0.7 0.1 0.3
0.9 0.2 0.4
0.7 0.2 0.4
0.2 0.1 0.1
0.0 0.0 0.0
1.6 0.3 0.9
0.7 0.7 0.7
0.6 0.0 0.2
1.0 0.1 0.5
0.4 0.0 0.2
0.3 0.1 0.2
0.1 0.0 0.1
O.B 0.0 0.2
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.6 0.0 0.2
NAREL Lab
Measurement
Max Min Avg
(pCi/m3)
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 O.Oi
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.00 0.00
o.oi o.oi o.oi
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
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Table 3 (continued)
Gross Beta in Airborne Particulates
May 1992
Location
OH: Columbus
OH:PaineBvilla
OH: Rosa
OH -.Toledo
OK: Oklahoma City
OR: Portland
PA tHarrisburg
RI: Providence
SC:Barnwell
SC: Columbia
SD: Pierre
THiKnoxville
TN: Nashville
TI: Austin
TX-.E1 Paso
UT:Salt Lake City
VA : Lynchburg
VA: Virginia Beach
HA:01ympia
WA : Spokane
VI: Madison
Number
of
Samples
3
8
9
8
6
9
8
8
2
9
1
9
8
8
8
5
8
2
9
8
8
5-Hour Field
Estimate
Max Min Avg
(pCi/m3)
0.1 0.0 0.0
0.2 0.1 0.2
0.0 0.0 0.0
1.1 0.1 0.6
0.3 0.0 0.2
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.7 0.1 0.3
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.5 0.1 0.2
0.4 0.4 0.4
0.7 0.1 0.6
0.8 0.2 0.4
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.7 0.1 0.4
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.9 0.2 0.4
0.1 0.1 0.1
0.5 0.0 0.1
0.6 0.2 0.4
0.9 0.2 0.5
HAREL Lab
Measurement
Max Min Avg
(pCi/m3)
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.03 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.04 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
Minimum Detectable
Minimum Detectable
Limit for field estimates - 0.1 pCi/m .
Limit for laboratory measurement - 0.01 pCi/m3.
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Table 4
Gross Beta in Airborne Participates
June 1992
Location
AL : Montgomery
AR: Little Rock
AZ: Phoenix
CA: Berkeley
CA:Los Angeles
CO: Denver
CT: Hartford
DE: Wilmington
FL : Jacksonville
PL: Miami
HI: Honolulu
IA:Io0a City
ID:Boise
ID: Idaho Falls
IL: Chicago
IB : Indianapolis
KS:Topeka
KT: Frankfort
LA: Re? Orleans
MA : Laurence
ME: August a
MI: Lansing
HH: Minneapolis
MO: Jefferson City
MS : Jackson
1C: Charlotte
1C: Wilmington
BD: Bismarck
IE: Lincoln
HH : Concord
HJ:frenton
NH: Santa Fe
HV:Las Vegas
BY: Albany
MY: Niagara Falls
HT:Taphank
OH : Columbus
Number
of
Samples
6
7
5
9
9
7
9
9
7
9
5
9
9
7
8
9
8
4
9
7
8
9
4
9
8
9
6
9
7
8
9
7
9
4
8
9
6
5 -Hour Field
Estimate
Max Min Avg
(pCi/m3)
0.4 0.0 0.1
0.3 0.1 0.2
0.4 0.0 0.3
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.5 0.1 0.3
0.1 0.0 0.1
O.S 0.1 0.2
0.1 0.0 0.0
0.1 0.0 0.0
0.2 0.1 0.2
0.9 0.1 0.3
0.5 0.1 0.2
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.6 0.1 0.3
0.6 0.2 0.4
1.1 0.2 0.6
0.2 0.1 0.2
0.2 0.1 0.1
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.2 0.0 0.1
0.4 0.2 0.3
0.3 0.1 0.2
0.9 0.4 0.6
0.4 0.1 0.2
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.0 0.0 0.0
1.4 0.3 0.8
0.8 0.3 0.6
0.2 0.1 0.1
1.0 0.2 0.4
0.4 0.2 0.3
0.3 0.1 0.2
0.1 0.0 0.0
0.3 0.1 0.2
0.2 0.1 0.1
0.2 0.1 0.1
NAREL Lab
Measurement
Max Min Avg
CpCi/m3)
0.03 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.08 0.00 0.02
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
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Table 4 (continued)
Gross Beta in Airborne Participates
June 1992
Location
OH:Pain«sville
OH: ROBS
OH: Toledo
OK: Oklahoma City
OR: Portland
Pi:Harri8burg
RI: Providence
SC:Barnuell
SC: Columbia
SD: Pierre
TH:Knoxville
TN: Nashville
IX: Austin
TX:E1 Paso
UT:Salt Lake City
Vi : Lynchburg
VI: Virginia Beach
Ui:Qlympia
Wi : Spokane
HI: Madison
Number
of
Samples
6
10
7
2
9
9
9
2
9
8
9
9
8
9
8
9
4
9
9
9
5-Hour Field
Estimate
Max Min ivg
(pCi/m3)
0.4 0.0 0.2
0.0 0.0 0.0
1.0 0.3 0.6
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.4 0.0 0.2
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.3 0.1 0.1
0.8 0.2 0.4
0.8 0.1 0.4
0.4 0.1 0.2
0.2 0.0 0.1
1.1 0.1 0.5
0.3 0.0 0.1
0.9 0.3 0.6
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.1 0.0 0.1
0.3 0.1 0.2
0.8 0.2 0.4
tUREL Lab
Measurement
Max Min Avg
(pCi/m3)
0.02 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.01 0.01 0.01
0.01 0.00 0.00
0.01 0.00 0.01
0.02 0.00 0.01
Minimum Detectable
Minimum Detectable
Limit for field estimates - 0.1 pCi/m .
Limit for laboratory measurement - 0.01 pCi/m .
-------
Table 5
Gross Beta and Specific Gamma in Precipitation
April 1992
Location
AL: Montgomery
AR:Little Rock
AZ: Phoenix
CO : Denver
CT: Hartford
DE: Wilmington
FL: Jacksonville
FL: Miami
HI : Honolulu
lD:Boise
IL: Chicago
LA: lea Orleans
MI: Lansing
MI: Minneapolis
MO: Jefferson City
MS:Jackaon
1C: Charlotte
1C: Wilmington
HD: Bismarck
•H : Concord
NJ: Trenton
NV:Laa Vegas
MY: Albany
NT: Niagara Falls
HT:Taphank
OHcPaineeville
OH: Toledo
OK Oklahoma City
OR: Port land
PA:Harri8burg
SC:Barn0ell
SC : Columbia
TK:Xnoxville
Til : Nashville
TX: Austin
TX:E1 Paso
OT:Salt Lake City
VA:Lynchburg
VA:01ympia
WI: Madison
Depth
(mm)
89.0
50.0
11.0
10.4
28.0
2.4
61. 6
40.2
36.0
20.0
39.6
132.8
122.8
50.0
24.0
42.0
72.0
61.0
6.0
9.6
25.2
36.0
73.0
108.0
43.0
6S.2
96.0
12.0
64.6
46.4
29.6
38.4
66.0
12.2
SO.O
11.0
20.0
62.4
121.6
7.4
Gross Beta
Activity
nCi/m2 ±2
-------
Table 6
Gross Beta and Specific Gamma in Precipitation
May 1992
Location
1L : Montgomery
AR: Little Rock
iZ: Phoenix
CO: Denver
CT -.Hartford
DE: Wilmington
FL: Jacksonville
FL: Miami
HI: Honolulu
ID: Idaho Falls
IL: Chicago
Li: Hew Orleans
MI: Lansing
MN: Minneapolis
MO: Jefferson City
MS : Jackson
NC: Charlotte
NC: Wilmington
ND: Bismarck
HH : Concord
HJ: Trenton
NM: Santa Fe
NY : Albany
NT: Niagara Falls
NT: Syracuse
NT:Taphank
OH:PaineBville
OH: Toledo
OK: Oklahoma City
OR: Port land
PA: Harris burg
SC:Barnuell
SC: Columbia
TN:Knoxville
TB: Nashville
TX: Austin
TI:E1 Paso
UT:Salt Lake City
Depth
(mm)
23.0
62.6
18.0
14.4
12.0
140.0
65.0
10.8
34.0
5.6
2.8
4.8
39.8
26.0
65.0
42.0
66.0
13.0
26.8
43.6
43.2
47.0
39.0
8.0
34.0
23.0
0.0
40.0
53.0
29.6
70. 0
24.8
34.6
60.0
66.0
120.0
53.0
31.0
Gross Beta
Activity
nCi/m2 ±2
-------
Table 6 (continued)
Gross Beta and Specific Gamma in Precipitation
May 1992
Location
TA : Lynchburg
UA:01ympia
UI: Madison
Depth
(mm)
59. 6
23.6
44.0
Gross Beta
Activity
nCi/m2 ±2
-------
Table 7
Gross Beta and Specific Gamma in Precipitation
June 1992
Location
AL: Montgomery
AR:Little Rock
CO: Denver
CT: Hartford
DE: Wilmington
FL: Jacksonville
FL: Miami
HI : Honolulu
ID:Boise
ID: Idaho Falls
IL: Chicago
LA :New Orleans
ME: Augusta
HI: Lansing
MH: Minneapolis
MO: Jefferson City
MS: Jackson
KC: Charlotte
HC: Wilmington
HD: Bismarck
HH : Concord
HJ: Trent on
DM: Santa Fe
NT: Albany
NT: Niagara Falls
NT: Syracuse
NT : Taphank
DH:Painenville
OH: Toledo
OK: Oklahoma City
OR: Portland
PAiHarrisburg
SC:Barnnell
SC: Columbia
TH:Knoxville
TN: Nashville
TX: Austin
OTiSalt Lake City
Depth
(mm)
152.0
70.0
27.6
111.0
106.0
173.4
206.0
13.0
57.0
8.0
35.2
137.0
73.0
57. 0
49.0
66.0
42.0
91.0
107.0
86.6
110.6
123.0
136.0
66.0
75.0
8.0
142.0
61.4
32.0
65.0
10.0
69.6
113.8
176.6
48.0
139.8
80.0
6.4
Gross Beta
Activity
nCi/m2 ±2
-------
Table 7 (continued)
Gross Beta and Specific Gamma in Precipitation
June 1992
Location
VAzLynchburg
VA:01ympia
WI:HadiBon
Depth
(nun)
43.0
30.0
20.0
GTOBB Beta
Activity
nCi/m2 ±2
-------
Table 8
Tritium in Precipitation
April-June 1992
Location
AL: Montgomery
AR: Little Rock
AZ: Phoenix
CO: Denver
CT: Hart ford
DE: Wilmington
FL: Jacksonville
FL: Miami
HI: Honolulu
ID:Boise
ID: Idaho Falls
IL: Chicago
LA: New Orleans
ME: August a
MI: Lansing
MB: Minneapolis
HO: Jefferson City
MS: Jackson
NC: Charlotte
NC: Wilmington
HD:Biamarck
NH : Concord
NJ: Trent on
KM: Santa Fe
NV:Las Vegas
NT: Albany
NT: Niagara Falls
NT: Syracuse
NT:Taphank
QH:Painesville
OB: Toledo
OK: Oklahoma City
OR: Port land
PA:Harrisburg
SC:Bamw«ll
SC: Columbia
TH:Knoxville
TB: Nashville
TX: Austin
TI:E1 Paso
OT:Salt Lake City
April 1992
nCi/L ±2or
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.3 0.2
NS
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
NS
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.1 0.2
NS
0.3 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
NS
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.3 0.2
Nay 1992
nCi/L ±1ff
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.1 0.2
NS
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
NS
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
NS
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.6 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
June 1992
nCi/L ±2
-------
Table 8 (continued)
Tritium in Precipitation
April-June 1992
Location
VA : Lynchburg
Wl:01ympia
HI: Madison
April 1992
nCi/L ±2(7
0.2 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.2 0.2
May 1992
nCi/L ±2(7
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
June 1992
nCi/L ±2
-------
Plutonium and Uranium in Airborne Particulates and Precipitation
Environmental radiation levels of plutonium and uranium are determined by the analysis
of semiannually composited samples (air filters) collected from the continuously operating
airborne particulate samplers.
Concentrations of the specific isotopes of plutonium-238, -239, and -240 and uranium-
234, -235, and -238 are determined by alpha spectroscopy following chemical separation. The
volume of air represented by the semiannual composite ranges from 60,000 to 250,000 cubic
meters.
Plutonium and uranium results are published when they become available.
Table 9 contains the pJutotiium and uranium results for the period January-June 1992.
Table 10 contains the plutonium and uranium in precipitation data for January-June 1992.
Values are based upon composites of the March, April, and May samples. Samples from
these three months only are analyzed annually because, due to the spring rains, they usually
contain the year's highest concentrations of plutonium and uranium.
15
-------
Table 9
Plutonium and Uranium In Airborne Particulates
January-June 1992 Composites
Location
IL: Montgomery
AR: Little Rock
AZ: Phoenix
Ci: Berkeley
CA:Los Angeles
CO : Denver
CT: Hart ford
DE: Wilmington
FL : Jacksonville
FL: Miami
HI: Honolulu
14: Iowa City
ID:Boise
ID: Idaho Falls
IL : Chicago
11 : Indianapolis
KS:Topeka
KT: Frankfort
LA: New Orleans
NA : Lawrence
ME : Augusta
MI: Lansing
MN: Minneapolis
MO: Jefferson City
MS : Jackson
NC: Charlotte
1C: Wilmington
ND: Bismarck
ME: Lincoln
HH : Concord
•JiTrenton
MM: Santa Fe
MY: Las Vegas
IT: Albany
IT: Niagara Falls
IT: Syracuse
IT : Taphank
238pu
aCi/m3 ±2
-------
Table 9 (continued)
Plutonium and Uranium In Airborne Particulates
January-June 1992 Composites
Location
OR : Columbus
OHiPaineaville
OH: ROBS
OH: Toledo
OK : Oklahoma
OR: Portland
Pl:Harrisburg
RI: Providence
SC:Barn«ell
SC: Columbia
SD: Pierre
TH:Knoxville
TN: Nashville
IX: Austin
TI:E1 Paso
OT:Salt Lake City
Vi : Lynchburg
Vi: Virginia Beach
Wi:01ympia
UA: Spokane
WI: Madia on
238pu
aCi/ra3 ±2
-------
Table 10
Plutonium and Uranium Analyses
Selected Precipitation Composite Samples
January-June 1992
Location
AL: Montgomery
AR:Little Rock
iZ: Phoenix
CA: Berkeley
CO : Denver
CT: Hart ford
DE: Wilmington
FL: Jacksonville
FL: Miami
HI: Honolulu
ID: Boise
ID: Idaho Falls
IL : Chicago
LA: lew Orleans
MI: Lansing
NI: Minneapolis
NO: Jefferson City
MS : Jackson
HC: Charlotte
1C: Wilmington
ID: Bismarck
HH : Concord
iJ : Trent on
IN: Santa Fe
IT: Las Vegas
MY: Albany
IT: Nee York City
NY: Niagara Falls
HT: Syracuse
NY:Yaphank
OH:Painesville
OH: Toledo
OK: Oklahoma City
OR: Port land
PA :Barrisburg
SC:BarnHell
SC: Columbia
238pu
pCi/L ±2o-
ND
0.003 0.006
0.011 0.008
o.ooi o.ooe
0.002 0.006
0.010 0.007
0.002 0.005
ND
0.003 0.007
0.003 0.006
0.001 0.007
ND
0.000 0.004
0.009 0.010
0.000 0.006
0.007 0.006
0.001 0.006
0.003 0.006
0.004 0.006
0.006 0.006
0.001 0.007
0.006 0.006
0.015 0.010
O.OOS 0.006
0.002 0.007
0.007 0.007
ND
0.004 0.006
0.000 0.006
0.001 0.004
0.004 0.006
0.000 0.006
0.006 0.005
0.007 0.008
0.003 0.004
0.000 0.006
KD
239-240 pu
pCi/L ±2
-------
Table 10 (continued)
Plutonium and Uranium Analyses
Selected Precipitation Composite Samples
January-June 1992
Location
TH:Knojtville
TN:Hashville
TI: Austin
TX:E1 Paso
UT:Salt Lake City
VA:Lynchburg
WA:01ympia
WI: Madison
238pu
pCi/L ±2(7
0.006 0.007
0.009 0.009
0.000 0.004
0.001 0.009
0.006 0.009
0.009 0.010
ND
0.006 0.007
239-240pu
pCi/L ±2ff
0.000 0.003
0.001 O.OOB
0.004 O.OOS
0.003 0.006
0.002 0.004
ND
ND
0.001 0.004
234,j
pCi/L ±2
-------
Krypton-85
Krypton-85 is a long-lived noble gas with a half-life of 10.8 years. It is released into
the atmosphere by nuclear reactor operations, fuel reprocessing, weapons tests, and research
and defense related activities. Krypton-85 also occurs naturally in minor quantities primarily
from the neutron capture of stable krypton-84 as well as spontaneous fission and neutron-
induced fission of uranium. Krypton-85 in the atmosphere has been monitored to identify
and establish baseline levels and long-term trends.
Krypton-85 analysis began in January 1973 with sample collections and analyses being
performed for 12 sampling locations. These locations were selected to provide atmospheric
coverage of the United States with considerations being given to the proximity to fuel repro-
cessing plants, nuclear reactors, and wide geographic coverage.
Dry compressed air samples, collected at each location, are purchased from commercial
air suppliers and shipped to the NAREL, where the krypton-85 is cryogenically separated
and counted in a liquid scintillation system.
The last Kr-85 results were for 1976, 1977, and 1979. They were published in Environ-
mental Radiation Data: Report SO.
20
-------
2. Water Program
The ERA MS water program provides data OR ambient radiation levels in the nation's
rivers, streams, and drinking water supplies.
Surface Water
Quarterly grab samples are taken downstream from operating or future nuclear facilities
at 58 stations. Surface water samples are analyzed for tritium quarterly and specific gamma
activity annually. Tritium is a primary radioactive pollutant from nuclear power plants and
weapons production activities. Tritium concentrations are determined by liquid scintillation
counting of distilled samples. Gamma scans are performed annually to determine levels of
gamma emitting radionuclides.
Table 11 contains the tritium concentration data for April-June 1992.
21
-------
Table 11
Tritium in Surface Water
April-June 1992
Location
AL:Decatur
1L : Gordon
iL: Scott aboro
AR: Little Rock
CA:Clay Station
Ci: Diablo Canyon
Ci : Eureka
CA:San Onofre
CO:Platteville
CT:East Haddam
CT:Vaterford
FL:Cryatal River
FL:Ft. Pierce
FL: Homestead
GA:Baxley
li: Cedar Rapids
IL:E. Moline
IL: Morris
IL:Zion
LA: New Orleans
HA : Plymouth
HD : Conowingo
KD:Lusby
MEiWiscasaet
MI:Bridgman
HI:Charlevoix
HI: Monroe
MI: South Haven
MN:Monticello
MM: Red Wing
MS: Port Gibson
HC: Charlotte
If C : Southport
KE:Rulo
HJ:Bayside
NJ: Oyster Creek
NV: Boulder City
Source
Tennessee River
Chattahoochee River
Tennessee River
Arkansas River
Folsom S. Canal
Pacific Ocean
Humboldt Bay
Pacific Ocean
South Platte River
Connecticut River
Long Island Sound
Gulf Of Mexico
Atlantic Ocean
Biacayne Bay
Altamaha River
Cedar River
Mississippi River
Illinois River
Lake Michigan
Mississippi River
Cape Cod Bay
Susquehanna River
Chesapeake Bay
Montsevay Bay
Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan
Lake Erie
Lake Michigan
Mississippi River
Mississippi River
Mississippi River
Cataeba River
Atlantic Ocean
Missouri River
Delaware River
Oyster Creek
Colorado River
Date
Collected
04/14/92
04/16/92
04/1&/92
06/10/92
04/14/92
04/08/92
04/09/92
06/10/92
04/16/92
04/08/92
04/08/92
04/04/92
04/07/92
04/20/92
04/07/92
04/08/92
04/10/92
04/03/92
05/15/92
04/01/92
04/03/92
04/06/92
04/13/92
04/07/92
04/13/92
04/06/92
04/06/92
04/13/92
04/08/92
05/14/92
04/07/92
04/02/92
05/11/92
05/02/92
04/14/92
04/16/92
04/02/92
3H
nCi/L ±2ff
0.3 0.2
0.5 0.2
0.4 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.5 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.5 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
22
-------
Table 11 (continued)
Tritium in Surface Water
April-June 1992
Location
NT: Chelsea
Nt:0ssining
NY:Qsvego
OH: Toledo
QR:Bradwood
Pi: Danville
PA: Philadelphia
PA: Philadelphia
PA: Philadelphia
SC:Allendale
SC: Broad River
SC:Hartsville
TS: Daisy
TH: Kingston
TX:E1 Paso
TX : Matagorda
VAiDoswell
VT:Vernon
WA:Northport
WA:Richland
WI:Tno Creeks
WI: Victory
WV: Wheeling
Source
Hudson River
Hudson River
Lake Ontario
Lake Erie
Columbia River
Susquehanna River
Delaware River-Baxter
Schuylkill R. -Queen
Schuylkill R.-Belmont
Savannah River
Broad River
Lake Robinson
Tennessee River
Clinch River
Rio Grande
Colorado River
North Anna River
Connecticut River
Columbia River
Columbia River
Lake Michigan
Mississippi River
Ohio River
Date
Collected
04/06/92
04/15/92
06/24/92
04/03/92
06/11/92
04/16/92
04/21/92
04/21/92
04/23/92
04/30/92
04/15/92
04/06/92
04/22/92
04/07/92
04/09/92
04/07/92
04/09/92
06/02/92
06/26/92
06/11/92
04/13/92
04/14/92
04/03/92
3H
nCi/L ±2
-------
Drinking Water
This program monitors ambient radiation levels in drinking water at 78 sites. These data
serve to assess trends and anomalies in concentrations, and to compare with standards set
forth in the EPA "National Interim Primary Drinking Water Regulations." These regulations
provide for approval of supplies when the combined radium-226 and radium-228 levels do not
exceed 5 pCi/L, when the gross alpha (excluding radon and uranium) levels do not exceed
15 pCi/L, when tritium levels do not exceed 20,000 pCi/L, when the strontium-90 levels do
not exceed 8 pCi/L, and when the gross beta levels do not exceed 50 pCi/L.
Grab samples are taken at the 78 sites which are either major population centers or
selected nuclear facility environs.
The analyses include (a) tritium on a quarterly basis; (b) gross alpha, gross beta,
strontium-90, and gamma on annual composites; (c) radium-226 if the gross alpha exceeds
2 pCi/L and radium-228 if the radium-226 falls between 3 and 5 pCi/L; (d) specific iodine-
131 on one quarterly sample per year for each station; and (e) an annual composite for
plutonium-238, -239, and -240 and uranium-234, -235, and -238 for stations that demon-
strate gross alpha levels greater than 2 pCi/L.
Tritium analyses are performed by scintillation counting of the distilled samples. Gross
beta and alpha are determined by evaporating an aliquot on a stainless steel planchet for
counting. Radium-226 is determined by the standard emanation technique. Strontium-90 is
determined by beta counting a strontium carbonate precipitate isolated by ion exchange.
Table 12 contains the data from drinking water samples for April-June 1992.
24
-------
Table 12
Tritium in Drinking Water
April-June 1992
Location
AK: Fairbanks
AL: Do than
AL: Montgomery
AL: Muscle Shoals
AL:Scottsboro
AR: Little Rock
CA: Berkeley
CA:Loa Angeles
CO: Denver
CO:Platteville
CT: Hartford
DE:Dover
FL: Miami
FL:Tajnpa
GA:Baxley
GA: Savannah
HI: Honolulu
IA: Cedar Rapids
ID:Boise
ID: Idaho Falls
IL:Morris
IL:W. Chicago
KS:Topeka
LA: New Orleans
HD: Baltimore
MD:Conowingo
ME: Augusta
MI: Detroit
MI: Grand Rapids
MH : Minneapolis
MM: Red Wing
MO: Jefferson City
MS: Jackson
MS: Port Gibson
HT: Helena
NC: Charlotte
NC: Wilmington
ND: Bismarck
HE: Lincoln
HH: Concord
NJ : Trenton
Date
Collected
04/23/92
04/16/92
06/02/92
04/14/92
04/15/92
06/10/92
04/02/92
04/06/92
04/08/92
04/03/92
04/03/92
04/01/92
04/01/92
04/03/92
04/07/92
06/09/92
04/28/92
04/08/92
04/09/92
04/06/92
06/20/92
04/06/92
04/06/92
OB/01/92
04/01/92
04/06/92
04/16/92
04/03/92
04/09/92
04/30/92
04/16/92
04/01/92
04/07/92
04/07/92
04/06/92
04/02/92
05/07/92
04/01/92
04/06/92
06/24/92
04/06/92
3H
nCi/L ±2
-------
Table 12 (continued)
Tritium in Drinking Water
April-June 1992
Location
NJ:Waretown
MM: Santa Fe
NT: Las Vegaa
NT: Albany
NT: Hen York City
NT: Niagara Falls
NT: Syracuse
OH: Cincinnati
OH: Columbus
OH: East Liverpool
OH :Paines villa
OH: Toledo
OK: Oklahoma City
OR: Portland
Pi: Columbia
PA:Harrisburg
PA : Philadelphia-Baxter
PA : Philadelphia-queen
PA Philadelphia
PA: Pittsburgh
PC:Corozal
HI: Providence
SC:Barnwell
SC: Columbia
SC:Hartsville
SC: Jenkinsville
SC: Seneca
TN: Chattanooga
TN:Knoxville
TA:DoB«ell
VA : Lynchburg
VA: Virginia Beach
UA:Richland
WA: Seattle
WI: Genoa City
WI:Madison
Date
Collected
04/02/92
OB/11/92
04/06/92
04/06/92
04/06/92
04/06/92
06/29/92
06/29/92
04/08/92
04/10/92
04/06/92
04/01/92
04/08/92
04/10/92
04/02/92
04/02/92
04/21/92
04/21/92
04/21/92
04/08/92
04/07/92
04/16/92
04/02/92
04/03/92
04/06/92
04/03/92
04/13/92
04/02/92
04/01/92
OB/06/92
04/01/92
04/02/92
06/11/92
04/03/92
04/14/92
04/01/92
3H
nCi/L ±20-
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.4 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.4 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.3 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
NO
0.2 0.2
0.1 0.2
Note:
-------
3. External Gamma Ambient Monitoring Program
The External Gamma Monitoring Program (EGAMP), which began in October 1978,
provides a continuous measurement of ambient gamma exposure rates, including cosmic, at
selected sites throughout the continental United States. Data from this program are used
to evaluate fluctuations in natural background due to variations in environmental condi-
tions and to provide a means of monitoring any significant increases in ambient gamma
levels. The program consists of approximately 22 sites representing wide geographic cover-
age throughout the country.f Although exposure measurements at these few sites are not
totally representative of nationwide exposures, they do indicate national trends.
The EG AMP program utilizes CaF2:Mn thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD's). These
dosimeters are commercially available glass-bulb type dosimeters with energy compensating
shields. A group of three TLD's is located at each station or site. Dosimeters are annealed
by the station operator prior to positioning in the field. The dosimeters are returned to
NAREL for readout approximately every three months. Several dosimeters are annealed by
the station operator as controls and returned with the exposed field dosimeters to correct
for any exposures accumulated during shipment.
Publication of EGAMP data has been suspended until problems with the data are re-
solved.
f Since some of these site* may not return dosimeters each period, the number of »ite» listed may vary (lightly.
27
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4. Milk Program
Pasteurized Milk
This is a cooperative program with the Dairy and Lipid Products Branch, Milk Sani-
tation Section, Food and Drug Administration. Milk is a reliable indicator of the general
population's intake of radionuclides since it is consumed fresh by a large segment of the pop-
ulation and can contain several of the biologically important radionuclides that result from
environmental releases from nuclear activities. A primary function of this program is to ob-
tain reliable monitoring data relative to current radionuclide concentrations and determine
any long-term trends.
Monthly samples are collected at 65 sampling sites with at least one located in each
state, Puerto Rico, and the Panama Canal Zone. The samples are composited, according
to production, from the major milk suppliers representing more than 80 percent of the milk
consumed in a given population center.
The samples are analyzed for gamma emitting nuclides, including iodine-131, barium-
140, cesium-137, and potassium. All samples collected in July are analyzed for strontium-90.
Also, for the first month of the three quarters beginning January, April, and October, 10
regional composite samples of milk made up from the states within each of EPA's 10 regions
are analyzed for strontium-90.
Iodine-131, barium-140, cesium-137, and potassium are determined by gamma spectral
analysis. Strontium-90 is determined by beta counting a total strontium precipitate that has
been chemically separated by ion exchange.
Tables 13-15 contain the concentrations of radionuclides in pasteurized milk for April-
June 1992. Table 16 contains the concentrations of strontium-90 in pasteurized milk EPA
Regional Composites for April 1992.
28
-------
Table 13
Radionuclides in Pasteurized Milk
April 1992
Location
AL: Montgomery
AR:Little Rock
AZ : Phoenix
CA:Loa Angeles
CA: Sacramento
CO: Denver
CT: Hartford
DE: Dover
Gi: Atlanta
IA:Des Koines
IN : Indianapolis
KS:«ichita
KT: Louisville
MA:Boston
HD: Baltimore
HI:Detroit
MI: Grand Rapids
KH:St. Paul
HO: Kansas City
HO: St. Louis
MS: Jackson
MT: Helena
HC: Charlotte
ND:Minot
HE: Omaha
NJ:Trenton
NH : Albuquerque
NV:Las Vegas
SY: Buffalo
NT: Hew York City
NT: Syracuse
OH: Cincinnati
OH: Cleveland
OR: Port land
PA: Philadelphia
PA: Pittsburgh
PC: Cristobal
Date
Collected
04/09/92
04/14/92
04/09/92
04/02/92
04/01/92
04/20/92
04/06/92
04/28/92
04/06/92
04/06/92
04/06/92
04/27/92
04/07/92
04/10/92
04/02/92
04/14/92
04/06/92
04/01/92
04/17/92
04/22/92
04/06/92
04/21/92
04/30/92
04/28/92
04/28/92
04/08/92
04/21/92
04/05/92
04/14/92
04/06/92
04/07/92
04/28/92
04/14/92
04/07/92
04/06/92
04/06/92
04/22/92
K
g/L ±2
-------
Table 13 (continued)
Radionuclides in Pasteurized Milk
April 1992
Location
PR: San Juan
SC : Charleston
SD: Rapid City
TH ; Chattanooga
TN:Knoi villa
TN: Memphis
TX: Austin
TX:Ft. Worth
VT:Montpelier
Vi: Seattle
WA: Spokane
WV: Charleston
Date
Collected
04/08/92
04/27/92
04/02/92
04/06/92
04/06/92
04/13/92
04/01/92
04/15/92
04/13/92
04/01/92
04/06/92
04/14/92
K
g/L ±2(7
1.63 0.08
1.91 0.10
1.B6 0.08
1.68 0.08
1.56 0.09
1.56 0.09
1.54 0.08
1.58 0.08
1.54 0.14
1.67 0.08
1.63 0.08
1.61 0.08
137Cs
pCi/L ±2
-------
Table 14
Radionuclides in Pasteurized Milk
May 1992
Location
4L: Montgomery
AR: Little Rock
AZ: Phoenix
Ci: Sacramento
Ci:San Francisco
CO -.Denver
DE: Dover
GA: Atlanta
HI: Honolulu
IA:Des Koines
IL: Chicago
IN : Indianapolis
KS: Wichita
KT: Louisville
LA: ties Orleans
Mi: Boston
MD: Baltimore
Kl:Detroit
HI: Grand Rapids
MH:St. Paul
NO: St. Louis
MS: Jackson
HI -.Helena
ND:Hinot
HE : Omaha
HJ: Trenton
NN : Albuquerque
IV: Las Vegas
NT: Buffalo
HY:NeH York City
NY: Syracuse
OH .'Cincinnati
OH: Cleveland
OR: Portland
PA: Philadelphia
PA: Pittsburgh
PC:Cristobal
Date
Collected
05/08/92
05/04/92
05/14/92
05/03/92
05/10/92
05/29/92
05/28/92
06/06/92
05/22/92
05/05/92
05/07/92
05/04/92
05/29/92
05/05/92
05/04/92
05/06/92
05/08/92
05/14/92
05/05/92
05/06/92
05/05/92
05/06/92
05/08/92
05/28/92
05/28/92
05/06/92
05/12/92
05/20/92
05/18/92
05/04/92
05/14/92
06/28/92
05/20/92
05/05/92
06/04/92
06/04/92
05/29/92
K
g/L ±2
-------
Table 14 (continued)
Radionuclides in Pasteurized Milk
May 1992
Location
PR: San Juan
SC: Chariest on
SD: Rapid City
TM: Chattanooga
TH: Memphis
TI: lust in
TI:Ft. Worth
VI: Norfolk
VT:Nontpelier
Wi: Seattle
VA : Spokane
WV: Charleston
Date
Collected
06/08/92
OB/21/92
05/12/92
06/26/92
OB/19/92
06/26/92
05/21/92
05/01/92
OB/28/92
05/05/92
OB/18/92
05/20/92
K
g/L ±2
-------
Table 15
Radionuclides in Pasteurized Milk
June 1992
Location
AL: Montgomery
AR: Phoenix
CAiLos Angeles
CA : Sacramento
CA:San Francisco
CO: Denver
DE: Dover
GA: Atlanta
HI: Honolulu
IA:Des Moines
IL : Chicago
IN: Indianapolis
KY: Louisville
LA: Hew Orleans
HA: Boston
KD: Baltimore
HI: Detroit
MI '.Grand Rapids
UN: St. Paul
MO: Kansas City
HO: St. Louis
MS: Jackson
NT: Helena
HC: Charlotte
ND:Kinot
HE: Omaha
NJ: Trent on
UN : Albuquerque
NY:Buifalo
NY: New York City
HY:Syracuse
OH Cincinnati
OH: Cleveland
OR: Portland
PA : Philadelphia
PA: Pittsburgh
PC:Cristobal
Date
Collected
06/05/92
06/18/92
06/11/92
06/02/92
06/02/92
06/15/92
06/17/92
06/01/92
06/23/92
06/02/92
06/04/92
06/02/92
06/02/92
06/23/92
06/12/92
06/05/92
06/10/92
06/08/92
06/02/92
06/19/92
06/03/92
06/02/92
06/18/92
06/01/92
06/29/92
06/24/92
06/05/92
06/09/92
06/03/92
06/08/92
06/01/92
06/26/92
06/25/92
06/02/92
06/08/92
06/08/92
06/15/92
K
g/L ±2
-------
Table 15 (continued)
Radionuclides in Pasteurized Milk
June 1992
Location
PR: San Juan
SC: Chariest on
TH : Chattanooga
TN:Knoxville
TX: Austin
TI:Ft. Worth
VA: Norfolk
VT : Hontpelier
W4: Seattle
VA : Spokane
WV: Charleston
Data
Collected
06/04/92
06/26/92
06/08/92
06/02/02
06/17/92
06/08/92
06/04/92
06/22/92
06/02/92
06/02/92
06/15/92
K
g/L ±2
-------
Tkble 16
Strontium-90 in Pasteurized Milk
EPA Regional Composites
April 1992
EPi
Region
I
II
III
IV
V
VI
VII
VIII
IX
X
Collection
Date
04/09/92
04/15/92
04/15/92
04/15/92
04/16/92
04/16/92
04/15/92
04/13/92
04/15/92
04/15/92
pCi/L
1.3
1.1
1.4
1.8
1.1
1.0
1.1
1.6
0.1
0.7
90Sr
±2
-------
Carbon-14 in Milk
Nine stations, chosen for wide geographical distribution, contribute milk samples for
annual analysis of carbon-14. These samples are monitored for carbon-14 levels in the food
chain resulting from nuclear testing. The pasteurized milk is freeze-dried and the resulting
powder is pelletized for ease of combustion. Analysis consists of combusting the samples and
converting the released carbon dioxide through a series of chemical conversions to benzene,
which is then assayed for carbon-14 by liquid scintillation.
The samples undergo three main steps in the chemical conversions to benzene prior to
liquid scintillation counting. They include (1) combustion of the sample to carbon dioxide,
(2) conversion of the carbon dioxide to acetylene, and (3) trimerizations of the acetylene
to benzene. The last carbon-14 results were for samples collected during April-May 1982,
1983-1986, and March-May 1987. They were published in Environmental Radiation Data:
Report 54 and Environmental Radiation Data: Report 59.
36
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Environmental Radiation Data (ERD) is published quarterly (January, April, July, October) by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Radiation and Indooi Air.
Requests for information concerning publication and distribution of ERO should be directed to:
Charles M. Petko
Office of the Director
National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory
540 South Morris Avenue
Montgomery, Alabama 36115-2601
Requests for information concerning the operation of ERAMS should be directed to:
John G. Griggs, Chief
Monitoring and Analytical Services Branch
National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory
540 South Morris Avenue
Montgomery, Alabama 36115-2601
or to:
William C. Conklin
Policy and Emergency Response Branch
Criteria and Standards Division (6602J)
US EPA Waterside Mall
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20460
*+*
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