NERC-LV-539-3J
EBVIRONMENTAL MOW I FOR INC REPORT FOR Till RE7ADA EES1 SITE
AND UTBEB TEST AKKAS BSED FOR UNDERGROUND HDCLEAB DETONATIOHS
idru.ir
i'i et^wr 1971
Moni tonng Ope rat iou^ Laboratory
National Environmental Research Cent*:
U. S. ENVIR0NMESXAL "PROTECTION AGENC
Las Vegas, !
Put If shed May 1«7-*
This work performed Bander a Memorandum of
Understanding No. AT(?6-1)-519
for the
U, S. ATOMIC EN.FJ8GY COMMISSION
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This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by the
United States Government. Neither the United States nor the United
States Atomic Energy Commission, nor any of their employees, nor
any of their contractors, subcontractors, or their employees,
make any warranty, express or implied, or assume any legal lia-
bility or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or use-
fulness of any information, apparatus, product or process disclosed,
or represent that its use would not infringe privately-owned rights.
Available from the National Technical Information Service,
U. S. Department of Commerce,
Springfield, VA 22151
Price: Paper copy $5.45; microfiche $1.45
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NEPC-LV-539-31
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING REPORT FOR THE NEVADA TEST SITE
AND OTHER TEST AREAS USED FOR UNDERGROUND NUCLEAR DETONATIONS
January through December 1973
by the
Monitoring Operations Laboratory
National Environmental Research Center
U. S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Las Vegas, Nevada
Published Mav 1974
This work performed under a Memorandum of
Understanding No. AT(26-1)-539
for the
U. S. ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION
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PREFACE
The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) has used the Nevada Test Site (NTS)
since January 1951 as an area for conducting nuclear detonations, nuclear
rocket-engine development, nuclear medicine studies, and miscellaneous
nuclear and non-nuclear experiments. With the exception of a test
moratorium from October 30, 1958, to September 1, 1961, atmospheric nuclear
tests were conducted periodically from 1951 through July 17, 1962. Since
July 17, 1962, in accordance with the limited test ban treaty, all nuclear
detonations have been conducted underground with the expectation of con-
tainment except for five nuclear earth-cratering experiments conducted
under the Plowshare program.
Under the U. S. Public Health Service (PHS) from 1959 through 1970,
and since 1970, under the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
facilities have been maintained in Las Vegas, NV, for the purpose of
providing an Off-Site Radiological Surveillance Program for the AEC. Prior
to that time, surveillance was performed by the Los Alamos Scientific
Laboratory and by U. S. Army personnel. Although off-site surveillance
has been provided by the Las Vegas facility for nuclear explosive tests
at places other than the NTS, the primary surveillance effort has been
centered around the NTS.
The objective of the Program from the beginning has been to measure
levels and trends of radioactivity in the off-site environment surrounding
testing areas to assure that the testing is in compliance with existing
radiation protection standards. To assess off-site radiation levels,
routine sampling networks for milk, water, and air are maintained along
with a dosimetry network and special sampling of food crops, soil,
etc., as required.
In general, analytical results showing radioactivity levels above
naturally occurring levels have been published in reports covering a
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test series or test project. Beginning in CY 1959 for reactor tests, and
in CY 1962 for weapons tests, surveillance data for each individual test
which released radioactivity off-site were reported separately. Commencing
in January 1964, and continuing through December 1970, these individual
reports for nuclear tests were also summarized and reported every six months
with the analytical results for all routine or special milk samples.
In CY 1971, the AEC implemented a requirement (AEC Manual, Chapter 0513)1
for a comprehensive radiological monitoring report from each of the several
contractors or agencies involved in major nuclear activities. The compilation
of these various reports since that time and their entry into the general
literature serve the purpose of providing a single source of information con-
cerning on-going environmental impact data from AEC sponsored activities. To
provide more rapid dissemination of data, the monthly reports of analytical
results of all air data collected since July 1971, and all milk and water
samples collected since January 1972, are submitted to the appropriate state
health departments involved, and are also published in Radiation Data and Reports
a monthly publication of the EPA.
Since 1962, PHS/EPA aircraft have also been used during nuclear tests to
provide rapid monitoring and sampling for releases of radioactivity. Early
aircraft monitoring data obtained immediately after a test are used to position
mobile radiation monitors, and the results of cloud sampling are used to quanti-
tate the inventories of the radionuclides released. Beginning with CY 1971, all
monitoring and sampling results of aircraft are reported in effluent monitoring
data reports in accordance with AEC Manual, Chapter 0513.
ii
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
PREFACE i
LIST OF FIGURES iv
LIST OF TABLES v
INTRODUCTION 1
NEVADA TEST SITE 1
Site Location 1
Ecology and Climate 2
Geology and Hydrology 3
NEVADA TEST SITE ENVIRONS 3
Population Distribution 4
OTHER TEST SITES 6
SUMMARY AND DOSE ASSESSMENT 7
MONITORING DATA COLLECTION, ANALYSIS, AND EVALUATION 11
NEVADA TEST SITE 11
Air Surveillance Network 12
Noble Gas and Tritium Surveillance Network 13
Dosimetry Network 16
Milk Surveillance Network 18
Water Surveillance Network 20
Plutonium in Soil 21
Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program, NTS Network 26
Whole Body Counting 29
OTHER TEST SITES 30
Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program 30
Natural Gas Burner Sampling, Gasbuggy Site 32
Project Gasbuggy Production Test 32
REFERENCES 35
iii
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Page
1. Nevada Test Site Location 37
2; Nevada Te.st Site Road and Facility Map 38
3. Ground Water-Flow Systems - NTS • 39
' • •' '
4. Population Distribution1 by Azimuth/Distance •' 40
5. General Land Use, Nevada Test Site Vicinity 4J
6. Air Surveillance Network 42
7. Noble Gas and Tritium Surveillance Network 43
8. Dosimetry Network 44
9. Isopleth Plot of 1973 TLD Exposures 45
10. Milk Surveillance Network 46
11. Water Surveillance Network 47
12. Water Surveillance Network, Las Vegas Valley 48
13. 239Pu Concentrations in Air at Barstow, CA, and Provo, UT 49
14. 239Pu Concentrations in Air at Austin, TX, and Spokane, WA 50
15. 239Pu Concentrations in Air at Aberdeen, SD, and St. Joseph, MO 51
16. 239Pu Concentrations in Air at Albuquerque, NM, and Medford, OR 52
17. Plutonium in Soil (10~3 yCi/m2) 53
18. On-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations 54
19. Off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Network 55
20. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations, Rulison, CO, Project Rulison 56
21. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations, Tatum Dome, MS, Project 57
Dribble/Miracle Play
22. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations, Tatum Dome, MS, Project 58
Dribble/Miracle Play
23. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations Central Nevada Test Area, 59
Faultless Event
24. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations, Fallon, NV, Project Shoal 60
25. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations, Rio Arriba County, NM, 61
Project Gasbuggy
26. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations, Carlsbad, NM, Project 62
Gnome/Coach
27. Variation of Natural Gas Flow Rate During Flaring Period, Project 63
Gasbuggy Production Test
iv
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LIST OF TABLES
Table Page
1. Underground Testing Conducted Off the Nevada Test Site 64
2. Summary of Analytical Procedures 66
3. 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Noble Gas and Tritium 69
Surveillance Network
4. 1973 Summary of Background Radiation Doses for the Dosimetry Network 72
5. Anomalous TLD Readings in 1973 75
6. 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Milk Surveillance Network 76
7. 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Water Surveillance Network - 81
Surface Water Samples
8. 1973 Summary of Tritium Results for the Water Surveillance Network 86
9. Plutonium-239 in Air Samples - Near the NTS 87
10. 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the NTS Monthly Long-Term 89
Hydrological Monitoring Program
11. 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for NTS Semi-Annual Long-Term 92
Hydrological Monitoring Program
12. 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological 100
Monitoring Program
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INTRODUCTION
Under a Memorandum of Understanding, No. AT(26-l)-539, with the U. S.
Atomic Energy Commission (AEG), the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA), National Environmental Research Center-Las Vegas (NERC-LV), continued
a program of routine and special radiological surveillance of various media
in the environment surrounding the Nevada Test Site (NTS) and at other sites
designated by the AEG during 1973. This report, prepared in accordance with
the AEG Manual, Chapter 0513, contains summaries of NERC-LV sampling method-
ologies, analytical procedures, and the results of all environmental samples
collected in support of AEG nuclear testing activities. Where applicable,
sampling data are also compared to appropriate guides for external and internal
exposures to ionizing radiation. In addition, a brief summary of pertinent
ecological and demographical features of the NTS and the NTS environs is pre-
sented for background information.
NEVADA TEST SITE
The major programs conducted at the NTS in the past have been nuclear
weapons development, proof-testing and weapons safety, testing for peaceful
uses of nuclear explosives (Project Plowshare), nuclear rocket development
(Project Rover), basic high-energy nuclear physics research, and seismic studies
(Vela-Uniform). During this report period these programs were continued with
the exception of Project Rover, which was terminated in January 1973. No
Plowshare tests were conducted at the NTS during this period, the only test
being conducted off-NTS. All nuclear testing was conducted underground to
minimize the possible release of fission products to the atmosphere.
Site Location
The Nevada Test Site (Figures 1 and 2) is located in Nye County, NV, with
its southeast corner about 100 km. (65 mi) northwest of Las Vegas. The NTS has
an area of about 3500 km2 (1350 square mi) and varies from 40-56 km (25-35 mi)
in width (east-west) and from 64-88 km (40-55 mi) in length (north-south). This
area consists of large basins or flats about 900-1200 m (3000-4000 ft) above
mean sea level (MSL) surrounded by mountain ranges 1800-2100 m (6000-7000 ft)
MSL.
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The NTS is nearly surrounded by an exclusion area collectively named the
Nellis Air Force Range. The Range, particularly to the north and east, provides
a buffer zone between the test areas and public lands. This buffer zone varies
from 24-104 km (15 to 65 mi) between the test area and land that is open to the
public. Depending upon wind speed and direction, this provides a delay of one
half hour to more than 6 hours before any inadvertent release of airborne radio-
activity could pass over public lands.
Ecology and Climate
The climate of the NTS is variable, primarily due. to altitude and the
rugged terrain. Generally, the climate is referred to as Continental Arid.
The average annual precipitation ranges from about 10 cm (4 in) at the 900-m
(3000-ft) altitude to around 25 cm (10 in) on the plateaus. During the winter
months, the plateaus may be snow-covered for periods of several days or weeks.
Snow is uncommon on the flats. Temperatures vary considerably with elevation,
slope, and local air currents. The average daily high (low) temperatures at
the lower altitudes are around 10° (-4°) C in January and 35° (12°) C in July,
with extremes of 44° and -26° C. Corresponding temperatures on the pleateaus
are 2° (-4°) C in January and 26° (18°) C ir. July with extremes of 38° and
-29° C. Temperatures as low as -34° C and higher than 46° C have been observed
at the NTS.
The prevailing direction from which winds blow, as measured on a 30-m
(100-ft) tower at the Yucca observation station, is predominantly northerly
except for the months of May through August when winds from the south-southwest
predominate. Because of the prevalent mour.tain/valley winds in the basins, sout
to southwest winds predominate during daylight hours during most months. During
the winter months southerly winds have only a slight edge over northerly winds
for a few hours during the warmest part of the day. These wind patterns may be
quite different at other locations on the NTS because of local terrain effects
and differences in elevation.2
Geology and Hydrology
Geological and hydrological studies of the NTS have been in progress by
the U. S. Geological Survey and various other institutions since 1956. Because
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of this continuing effort, including subsurface studies of numerous bore-
holes, the surface and underground geological and hydrological characteristics
for much of the NTS are known in considerable detail. This is particularly
true for those areas in which underground experiments are conducted. A com-
prehensive summary of the geology and hydrology of the NTS was published in
1968 as Memoir 110 by the Geological Society of America, entitled "Nevada Test
Site."
There are two hydrologic systems on the NTS (Figure 3). Groundwater in
the Pahute Mesa system travels at a rate of from 2.1 - 76 m (7-250 ft) per
year to the south and southwest toward the Amargosa Desert. Groundwater in
the Ash Meadows system moves beneath the NTS from north to south at a rate of
from 2.1 - 222 m (7-730 ft) per year. Carbon-14 analyses of water from forma-
tions underlying the NTS indicate that the lower velocity is nearer the true
value. At Mercury Valley, in the extreme southern part of the NTS, the ground-
water flow direction shifts to the southwest toward the Ash Meadows discharge
area in the southeastern Amargosa Valley.
Depths to water on the NTS vary from about 100 m (a few hundred feet)
beneath the valleys in the southeastern part of the site to more than 600 m
(2000 ft) beneath the highlands to the north. Although much of the valley
fill is saturated, downward movement of water is extremely slow. The primary
aquifer in these formations is the Paleozoic carbonates.
NEVADA TEST SITE ENVIRONS
It is difficult to generalize on the ecology, land use and climate of the
NTS environs with the exception of the very close-in areas. As an example,
within a 320-km (200-mi) radius west of the NTS, elevations range from below
sea level in Death Valley, to 4420 m (14,495 ft) above MSL in the Sierra
Nevada Range. Additionally, parts of two valleys of major agricultural impor-
tance (the Owens and San Joaquin) are included. The areas south of the NTS
are more uniform since the Mojave Desert ecosystem comprises most of this
portion of Nevada, California, and Arizona. The areas east of the NTS are
primarily Basin Range Desert with some of the older river valleys, such as
the Virgin River Valley, supporting small scale, but intensive farming and
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production of a surprising variety of crops. Grazing is also common in this
area, particularly to the northeast. The area north of the NTS is also Basin
Range Desert where the major agricultural-related activity is grazing of both
cattle and sheep. Only areas of minor agricultural importance, primarily
alfalfa hay, are found in this portion of the state within a distance of 320 km
(200 mi).
The only major body of water close to the NTS is Lake Mead, a man-made
lake supplied by water from the Colorado River. Lake Mead is the source of
water for almost all domestic, recreational, and industrial purposes in the
Las Vegas Valley. Smaller reservoirs and lakes are located in the area; however
they are of limited use, primarily for irrigation and for stock water. In
California, the Owens River and Haiwee Reservoir feed into the Los Angeles Aque-
duct and are the major sources of domestic water for the Los Angeles area.
Except for the higher elevations, the summers are hot with relatively mild
winters. In the close-in areas, precipitation rarely exceeds 25 cm (10 in)
even at higher elevations and the relative humidity is low. Prevailing winds
are from the south-southwest in the summer months, while north-northeast winds
are often found during the winter months. Because of the terrain and elevation,
any generalization of temperature and wind direction must be qualified in terms
of specific locality.
Dairy farming is not extensive in the 320-km (200-mi) radius area under
discussion. There are, however, several Grade A dairies located in the Moapa
River Valley in Nevada and in the areas around St. George and Cedar City, UT.
Two small dairies are located in the Alamo, NV area. Other dairies exist in
the Owens Valley in CA. It is also fairly common for remote ranches to keep
one or two family milk cows. Within 160 km (100 mi) of the site there are about
3000 dairy cows. The majority of these cows is located at dairy farms southeast
of the NTS, one in the Moapa Valley, several in the Virgin Valley, and one near
Las Vegas.
Population Distribution
With the exception of Las Vegas and vicinity, there are no major population
centers within 320 km (200 mi) of the site. There are only about 500,000 people
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living in this total area, about one-half of whom live in the Las Vegas
greater metropolitan area. If the City of Las Vegas is not considered in
determining population density, there are about 0.8 people per km2 (2 people
per mi2) within the 320-km (200-mi) radius of the NTS Control Point. For
comparison, the United States (50 states) has a population density of 21
people per km (57.5 people per mi2) and the overall Nevada average is 1.7
people per km (4.4 people per mi2).
The off-site areas within about 80 km (50 mi) of NTS are predominantly
rural. Several small communities are located in the area, the largest being
in the Pahrump Valley. This rural community, with an estimated population of
about 2000, is located about 72 km (45 mi) south of the NTS. The Amargosa
Farm area has a population of about 200 and is located about 50 km (30 mi)
southwest of the center of the NTS. The Spring Meadows Farm area is a rel-
atively new development consisting of approximately 10,000 acres with a pop-
ulation of somewhat more than 100. This area is about 55 km (35 mi) south-
southwest of the NTS. The largest town in the near off-site area is Beatty
with a population of more than 500 and is located about 65 km (40 mi) to the
west of the site.
In the adjacent states, the Mojave Desert of California, which includes
Death Valley National Monument, lies along the southwestern border of Nevada.
The population in the Monument boundaries varies considerably from season to
season with fewer than 200 permanent residents and tourists in the area during
any given period in the summer months. However, during the winter as many as
2000 tourists and campers can be in the area on any particular day during the
major holiday periods. The largest town in this general area is Barstow,
located 265 km (165 mi) south-southwest of the NTS, with a population of over
12,000. The Owens Valley, where numerous small towns are located, lies about
50 km (30 mi) west of Death Valley. The largest town in Owens Valley is Bishop,
located 225 km (140 mi) west-northwest of the NTS, with a population of about
3000.
The extreme southwestern region of Utah is somewhat more developed than
the adjacent part of Nevada. The largest town, Cedar City, with a population
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of approximately 9,000, is located 282 km (175 mi) east-northeast of the NTS.
The next largest community is St. George, located 217 km (135 mi) east of
the NTS, with a population of somewhat more than 7,000.
The extreme northwestern region of Arizona is mostly undeveloped range
land with the exception of that portion in the Lake Mead Recreation Area.
Several small retirement communities are found along the Colorado River,
primarily at Lake Mojave and Lake Havasu. The largest town in the area is
Kingman, located 280 km (175 mi) southeast of the NTS, with a population of
about 6,000.
•
Figure 4 shows a generalized schematic of human population and milk cow
distribution by 30° sectors from the NTS out to a distance of about 320 km
(200 mi).1* Figure 5 shows the locations and general land use of the areas
mentioned above.
OTHER TEST SITES
Table 1 lists the name, date, location, yield, depth, and purpose of all
underground nuclear tests conducted at locations other than the NTS since the
beginning of testing through December 1973. The only test conducted during
this report period was Project Rio Blanco. CER Geonuclear Corporation was
the contractor responsible for the off-site radiological safety program for
this test, and they will report their results separately.
During CY 1973, the NERC-LV provided radiological surveillance for a
production test of the nuclear-stimulated Gasbuggy natural gas well located
near Farmington, NM. This surveillance consisted of aerial and ground environ-
mental sampling at scheduled intervals before, during, and after the production
flaring.
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SUMMARY AND DOSE ASSESSMENT
During 1973 the monitoring of gamma radiation levels in the environs
of the NTS was continued through the use of an off-site network of radia-
tion dosimeters and gamma-rate recorders. Concentrations of radionuclides
in various environmental media were continuously monitored by permanently
established networks of air, milk, and water sampling stations. Before
each underground nuclear detonation, mobile radiation monitors, equipped
with radiation monitoring instruments and sampling equipment, were on
standby in off-site locations to respond to an accidental release of air-
borne radioactivity.
During this reporting period, a total of 322 Ci of gaseous radioactivity,
primarily radioxenon, was released into the atmosphere at the NTS. Due
to the relatively low quantity, the varying location of release and the
discontinuous release rate of the radioactivity, an estimate of the radia-
tion dose to off-NTS populations in accordance with the AEG Manual, Chapter
0513, was not made. However, the concentration of each specific radio-
nuclide detected and attributable to test operations was compared to the
appropriate Concentration Guide of the AEC Manual, Chapter 0524.
The only off-NTS indication of radioactivity that was attributable to
test operations was found in the Noble Gas and Tritium Surveillance Network.
Concentrations of radioxenon greater than the minimum detectable concen-
tration (MDC) of 2 x 10~12 yCi/ml were detected during the year at all
noble gas and tritium air sampling locations except Beatty, and Tonopah,
NV. The radioxenon, identified as 133Xe, was detected off-NTS on a few
occasions with concentrations as high as 3.0 x 10"11 yCi/ml at Diablo, NV.
The highest 133Xe concentrations, which were detected in October, are con-
sidered to be anomalies since there was no known release of radioactivity
in the quantity that would have been required to cause the magnitude of
133Xe concentrations which were detected in the off-NTS area. At each
location the *33Xe concentration, when averaged over the total sampling
times for the year, was less than 0.003% of the Concentration Guide for
this nuclide, which is 1 x 10~7 yCi/ml for a suitable sample of a popula-
tion in an uncontrolled area and 1 x 10~5 yCi/ml for radiation workers, as
specified by the AEC Manual, Chapter 0524.5 No 3H in the forms HT and
HTO above expected background was detected in off-NTS areas; however,
7
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CH3T was detected, on occasions, at all stations except Death Valley
Junction, CA. The total of the average 3H concentrations (HTO +HT +CH3T)
for each location was less than 0.02% of the Concentration Guide for a
suitable sample of a population in an uncontrolled area or to a radia-
tion worker. These Concentration Guides are 6.7 x 10~8 pCi/ml, and
6 x 10~6 yCi/ml, respectively. No connection between NTS activities and
the presence of CH3T could be established.
The Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program, used for the monitoring
of radionuclide concentrations in surface and ground waters which are down-
gradient from sites of past underground nuclear detonations, was begun for
the NTS. Nine stations were selected for monthly sampling near nuclear test
areas, at domestic supplies, and at points where' ground water exits the NTS.
In addition, 18 sites were selected for semi-annual sampling to repre-
sent industrial supplies, domestic supplies off-NTS, and points in possible
but less probable NTS exit flow patterns. Several of these wells were
selected as controls for the total NTS program. The nine monthly stations
and 18 of the semi-annual stations were sampled in 1973. No radioactivity
related to NTS nuclear testing was detected in any of the samples.
Tritium was detected in samples from two NTS wells which xvere contaminated
Q
by previous radionuclide experiments using 3H as a tracer. However, the
•
3H concentration in these wells was so low as to be detectable only by
special analytical techniques.
Soil sampling for 239Pu was continued in the areas surrounding the
NTS. Concentrations of 239Pu above the levels expected from world-wide
fallout were found in the first few centimeters of the soil at several
locations around the NTS. A retrospective study of 239Pu on filters
collected from air samplers operated near the NTS and on filters collected
from air samplers at eight distant locations in the western United States,
showed no significant difference in 239Pu concentrations.
As part of a routine program started in 1971, 87 people from areas
adjacent to the NTS were brought to the NERC-LV for whole-body counting
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and urinalysis during CY 1973. The radionuclides evaluated were 137Cs,
3H, and 238~239Pu. The average 137Cs concentration in the residents was
1.8 x 10~9 yCi/g of body weight. The average concentration of 3H in
urine was 5.2 x 10~7 yCi/ml. No 238-239pu was detected.
At other locations in the Continental United States where underground
nuclear tests had been conducted in previous years, the Long-Term
Hydrological Monitoring Program was continued. All radioactivity con-
centrations in the samples collected during the year were at natural
background levels with the exception of samples collected at USGS Wells
Nos. 4 and 8 at the Project Gnome site and the HT-2M Well at the Pro-
ject Dribble/Miracle Play site. The USGS wells at the Gnome site were
used in a U. S. Geological Survey radioactive tracer study in 1963, at
which time 137Cs, 131I, 90Sr, and 3H were injected into Well No. 8, and
water was pumped out of Well No. 4. As a result, high levels of 3H and
90Sr were observed in samples collected from both wells, while 137Cs
was detected only in the sample from Well No. 8. The highest concentra-
tion of radioactivity was for 90Sr, which was 50 times its Concentra-
tion Guide of 3 x 10~7 yCi/ml for exposure to an individual in an
uncontrolled area. The HT-2M Well at the Dribble site was drilled about
90 m (300 ft) from another well in which 1280 m3 (338,000 gallons) of
radioactive waste were injected during CY 1965. During this report
period, elevated levels of 3H were detected in the well, the highest
being 8.0 x 10~J yCi/ml, which is 2.7% of the Concentration Guide for
3H, for an individual in an uncontrolled area. The radioactivity con-
centrations in all other samples collected from wells near the con-
taminated wells were representative of normal background levels. All
of the contaminated wells are within a locked, fenced area.
Aerial surveillance and ground monitoring were provided for the
Project Gasbuggy production test of 1973, during which about 49 Ci of
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3H and 5 Ci of 85Kr were released in natural gas flared over the period
May 15 to November 6. Various environmental media were sampled at in-
tervals before, during, and after the test. The maximum concentration
of 3H that was detected in aerial or ground samples of atmospheric
moisture was 3.0 x 10~10 yCi/ml of air. This sample was collected on the
ground on July 25, 1973, 0.5 km (0.3 mi) at 341 from the flare stack.
This concentration is about 0.4% of the Concentration Guide of 6.6 x 10~8
uCi/ml for a suitable population sample in an uncontrolled area. No 85Kr
was detected in samples collected on the ground; however, it was detected
in one aircraft sample collected on July 25 at an elevation of 2250 m
(7400 ft) above mean sea level, 1.8 km (1.1 mi) at 260 from the flare
stack. This sample had a 85Kr concentration of 2.1 x 10"11 yCi/ml, which
is 0.028% of the Concentration Guide which is 1.0 x 10" 7 yCi/ml for a
suitable population sample in an uncontrolled area. Concentrations of 3H
above ambient background were found in the moisture of vegetation and soil
samples; however, the vegetation was not used for human consumption, nor
was the soil used for food-crop raising.
10
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MONITORING DATA COLLECTION, ANALYSIS, AND EVALUATION
NEVADA TEST SITE
The major portion of the off-site radiological safety program for the
NTS consists of continuously-operated dosimetry and air sampling networks and
scheduled collections of milk and water samples at locations surrounding the
NTS. Before each nuclear test, mobile monitors were positioned in the off-
site areas most likely to be affected by a possible release of radioactive
material. These monitors, equipped with radiation survey instruments, gamma-
rate recorders, thermoluminescent dosimeters, portable air samplers, and
supplies for collecting environmental samples, were prepared to conduct a
monitoring program directed from the NTS Control Point by two-way radio com-
munications. In addition, for each event at the NTS, a U. S. Air Force air-
craft with two Reynolds Electrical and Engineering Co., monitors equipped
with portable radiation survey instruments was airborne near surface ground
zero to detect and track any radioactive effluent. Two NERC-LV cloud sampling
and tracking aircraft were also available to obtain in-cloud samples, assess
total cloud volume, and provide long-range tracking in the event of a release
of airborne radioactivity.
In addition, other surveillance programs were conducted. To assess the
plutonium content of soil in areas surrounding the NTS, a special soil study
was continued. Also, the Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program, which
was begun for all off-NTS underground test areas during CY 1972 to monitor
radioactivity concentrations in wells, springs, and surface waters down-
gradient of underground water in areas where underground nuclear detonations
have been conducted, was expanded to include the NTS.
During this report period, only underground nuclear detonations were
conducted. All detonations were contained except for infrequent releases of
small concentrations of gaseous radioactivity, primarily radioxenon.
According to information provided by the Nevada Operations Office, AEC,
the following effluents were reported for CY 1973:
11
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Isotope Curies Isotope Curies Isotope Curies
133Xe 287.01 137Xe 0.34 133I 0.12
133mxe 9.07 138Xe 3.73 135I 0.02
135Xe 17.84 131I 0.03 88Kr 0.73
135mXe 1.40 132I 0.05 89Kr 0.03
3H 1.27
Air Surveillance Network
The Air Surveillance Network, operated by the NERC-LV, consisted of 49
active and 72 standby sampling stations located in 21 western states (Figure 6)
Samples of airborne particulates were collected continuously at each active
station on 10-cm (4-in) diameter glass-fiber filters at a flow rate of about
350 m3 of air per day. Normally samples were collected over a 24-hour period
until October 1, 1973; however, at several stations operated by state health
department and other government agency personnel, samples were not always col-
lected on weekends and holidays, which resulted in 48- or 72-hour samples.
Beginning October 1, the collection frequency was changed from daily to three
times weekly, resulting in 48- or 72-hour samples from all active stations.
Activated charcoal cartridges directly behind the glass-fiber filters were
used regularly for the collection of gaseous radioiodines at 22 stations near
the NTS. Charcoal cartridges could have been added to all other stations by
notification by telephone. All air samples were mailed to the NERC-LV.
Special retrieval could have been arranged at selected locations in the event
a release of radioactivity was believed to have occurred.
The glass-fiber filters were counted 5 minutes for gross beta radio-
activity as soon as they were received and again for 5 minutes at 5 and 12
days after collection. Samples were counted on gas flow proportional
counters calibrated over a range of beta energies from 0.1 to 1.8 MeV. A
conservative efficiency value of 45% (corresponding to an average maximum
beta energy of 0.5 MeV) was used for data conversion. The 5- and 12-day
counts were used to extrapolate gross beta concentrations to mid-collection
time for reporting. Extrapolation was accomplished by computer programs
and was routinely based on a T~1>2 decay.
12
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Those filters with a total gross beta radioactivity of 500 cpm or greater
were gamma scanned on a 10- by 10-cm (4- by 4- in) sodium iodide (Tl-activated)
crystal connected to a 400-channel gamma spectrometer. Individual radio-
nuclides were quantitated from spectrometer data by use of a computer matrix
technique. If fresh fission products related to an NTS event had been detected,
radiochemical analyses for radionuclides such as 89~90Sr and 238-239pu wou]_(j
have been made on selected filters. All charcoal cartridges were counted 10
minutes with a gamma spectrometer. Data from those cartridges having a net
gross gamma count rate greater than 300 cpm were analyzed by computer matrix
technique to quantitate individual radionuclides. Additional analytical infor-
mation can be found in Table 2.
Gross beta averages for the year, with the exception of July, were about
1 x 10~13 yCi/ml throughout the Network. The July averages were slightly
higher, with the highest concentration for the year being 4.5 x 10~12 yCi/ml
on a sample collected at Monticello, UT, on July 11.
From gamma spectrometry results, 103Ru was identified on one sample col-
lected at Idaho Falls, ID, on July 11 and 95Zr, 103Ru, and 141Ce were identified
on one sample collected at Las Vegas, NV, on July 23. All concentrations were
less than the minimum reporting concentration, which is 1 x 10~13 yCi/ml. In.
addition, a special study was made of composited air filters representing
120,000 m3 of sampled air. Gamma spectrometer analysis of the composited filters
indicated the presence of trace amounts of 95Zr, 1£tlCe, 103Ru, and ltt0Ba-La.
The concentrations of these nuclides were too low for definite quantification.
Since no other gamma-emitting radionuclides were identified in air samples
during the year and slight increases in gross beta concentrations were observed
at most stations during July, these radionuclides were attributed to the June
26, 1973 nuclear detonation by the People's Republic of China.
Noble Gas and Tritium Surveillance Network
The Noble Gas and Tritium Surveillance Network, which was first established
in March and April 1972, was operated to monitor the airborne levels of radio-
krypton, radioxenon, and 3H in the forms HT, HTO, and CH3T. This Network
consisted of four on-HTS and six off-NTS stations (Figure 7).
13
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The equipment used in this Network comprises two separate systems: a
compressed air sampler and a molecular sieve sampler. The compressed air
equipment continuously samples air which is then compressed and stored over
7-day periods in two pressure tanks, which together hold approximately two
cubic meters of air at atmospheric pressure. The bottles are replaced weekly
and returned to the NERC-LV where the contents of one pressure tank are
analyzed for 85Kr, radioxenons, and CH3T by gas chromatography and liquid
scintillation techniques described by Stevenson and Johns.6 The minimum
detectable concentrations for 85Kr, any of the radioxenons, and CH3T are
5 x 10~12 yCi/ml, 2 x 10~12 yCi/ml, and 5 x 10~12 yCi/ml, respectively.
The molecular sieve equipment samples air through a filter to remove
particulate matter and then through a 75 mm by 200 mm column containing 600
grams of 13X molecular sieve to remove atmospheric moisture. Tritium-free
hydrogen carrier is added to the air stream by the electrolysis of antique
water. The air is then passed through another molecular sieve column to
remove any water from the electrolysis cell. The dry air with added hydrogen
is then passed through a 13X molecular sieve on which is deposited a
palladium catalyst. The hydrogen, converted to water by the catalyst, is
immediately adsorbed on the molecular sieve. The volume of air passed
through the sampler is measured by a dry gas meter. Approximately five
cubic meters of air are passed through each sampler over a 7-day sampling
period. After each sampler is returned to the laboratory, the first molecular
sieve column and the catalytic column are degassed. The water from each
column is then distilled and counted 200 minutes for 3H by the liquid
scintillation techniques described by Johns.7 A complete summary of analytical
procedures is listed in Table 2. From the 3H content of atmospheric moisture
adsorbed on the first molecular sieve column, the concentrations of HTO in
yCi/ml of recovered moisture and as HTO in yCi/ml of sampled air are
determined. The concentration of 3H in the form of free hydrogen is deter-
mined from the 3H collected on the last molecular sieve column.
Table 3 summarizes the results of this Network by listing the maximum,
minimum, and average concentrations for 85Kr, total Xe or 133Xe, CH3T, HTO,
and HT. The annual average concentrations for each station were calculated
14
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over the time period sampled assuming that all values less than the minimum
detectable concentration (MDC) were equal to the MDC. In the table, all
concentrations of 85Kr, Xe or 133Xe, CH3T, HTO and HT are expressed in the
same unit, yCi per ml of air. Since the moisture content of air can vary
considerably and thereby affect the concentration of HTO in air, the %
concentration in yCi/ml of atmospheric moisture is also given in the table
as a more reliable indicator of when background concentrations of HTO are
exceeded.
As shown by Table 3, the maximum and average 8%r levels at all stations
were essentially the same except for the BJY Station located on-NTS, where
the concentration range of 1.3 x 10"11 to 2.7 x 10"11 yCi/ml and the average
concentration of 1.8 x 10"11 yCi/ml were higher than those for all other stations,
The next highest range was 1.2 x 10" n to 2.2 x 10"11 yCi/ml, and all other
average concentrations were 1.6 x 10~* 1 yCi/ml. The higher average concen-
tration of 85Kr at BJY was attributed to seepage of gases from under-
ground nuclear tests at NTS.
The averages and ranges in concentrations of HTO and HT for the year
were generally the same at all locations except for the on-NTS stations at
BJY and Area 12, where concentrations were significantly higher than those
for all other stations. The higher concentrations were associated with NTS
operations.
The total of the average tritium concentrations (HTO+HT+CH3T) for either
of these stations was less than 0.02% of the Concentration Guide for 3H in
air, which is 5 x 10~6 yCi/ml for an exposure to a radiation worker. Con-
centrations of 3H in the form Q^T were occasionally detected above the MDC
of 5 x 10~12 yCi/ml at all stations except Death Valley Jet., CA. The highest
concentration was 1.8 x 10"11 pCi/ml in a sample collected at Tonopah, NV.
No definite correlation between G^T and NTS testing could be made.
Concentrations of radioxenon greater than the MDC of 2 x 10~12 yCi/ml
were detected during the year at all sampling locations except Beatty,'and
Tonopah, NV. The radioxenon, identified as 133Xe, was detected on a few
15
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occasions with concentrations as high as 2.4 x 10 10 yCi/ml at the on-NTS
station at BJY, and 3.0 x 10'11 yCi/ml at Diablo, NV in the off-NTS area.
The highest 133Xe concentrations, which were detected in October, are con-
sidered to be anomalies, since there was no known release of radioactivity
in the quantity that would have been required to cause the magnitude of
3Xe concentrations which were detected in the off-NTS area. At each
location the 133Xe concentration, when averaged over the total sampling times
for the year, was less than 0.003% of the Concentration Guide for this nuclide,
which is 1 x 10~7 yCi/ml for a suitable sample of a population in an uncon-
trolled area, and 1 x 10~5 yCi/ml for radiation workers.
Dosimetry Network
The Dosimetry Network during 1973 consisted of 67 locations surrounding
the NTS which were monitored continuously with thermoluminescent dosimeters
(TLD's). The locations, shown in Figure 8, are all within a 300-mile radius
of the center of the NTS and include both inhabited and uninhabited locations.
Each Dosimetry Network station was equipped with three EG&G Model TL-12
dosimeters, which were exchanged monthly until September when quarterly
exchange was initiated. Within the general area covered by the dosimetry
stations, 52 off-site residents routinely wore one TLD each. These dosimeters
were exchanged at the same time as the station dosimeters.
The TL-12 dosimeter has an internal or self-background exposure rate
equivalent to 0.7 mR/d, which limits its minimum detection at the 95% con-
fidence level to about 5 mR for a 30-day measurement period, and 15 mR for
a 90-day measurement. All TLD readings were corrected to Cs gamma-
roentgen-equivalent values according to individual TLD calibration factors.
For purposes of this report, these units of exposure were considered to be
equivalent to whole-body gamma doses in mrems.
After appropriate corrections were made for the background exposure
accumulated during shipment between the laboratory and the monitoring
locations, the three TLD readings were averaged. The average exposure
value for each monitoring period and station was statistically compared to
values from the past twelve months to determine whether the new value was
16
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within the range of environmental background, or significantly greater than
background. Those which were greater led to calculations of net exposures,
whereas those which were not were pooled with the background data bank, and
the oldest value in the data bank was deleted. Values which were statistically
lower than the background range were also deleted and considered invalid
measurements. Each of the 52 personnel dosimeter results was compared to the
background value of the nearest station.
No doses directly attributable to nuclear testing were detected by the
dosimetry network during 1973. Table 4 lists the maximum, minimum, and
average dose equivalent rate (mrem/d) measured at each station in the network
during 1973. The maximum and minimum dose rates were selected from dose rates
determined from the exposures (mrem) for each monitoring period divided by
the number of days in the exposure period, which was about 30 days for the
months January through September, depending on minor variation in schedules,
and about 90 days for October through December. The annual average dose rate
for each station was calculated by adding the products of the monthly dose
equivalent values (mrem) and the exposure period, and dividing the sum of the
products by the number of days in the period listed in Table 4 for each
station. The annual adjusted background dose was derived from the product of
the average dose rate and 365 days. As shown by this table, the average
annual station background doses ranged from 80 to 180 mrert with a network
average of 123 mrem/a. The range and average for the network are similar to
last year's range of 84-200 mrem and average of 144 mrem/a. Among the 52
off—site residents who wore dosimeters continuously, no personnel doses
greater than background were attributed to nuclear testing at NTS. The
term "background" as used in this context, refers to naturally occurring
radioactivity, plus a contribution from residual man-irade fission products.
Figure 9 shows an isopleth plot of 1973 TLD exposures. This plot indi-
cates that the higher exposures are in those areas which were downwind of past
releases of radioactivity from the NTS during both atmospheric and under-
ground testing. The plot also would tend to support the. conclusion that
the exposures to the southeast of NTS are closer to "normal" background
since only a few releases of effluent from NTS have ever followed a south-
east trajectory.
17
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Several TLD's showed unexplained readings during 1973. These values,
listed in Table 5 were considered to be anomalous readings; not true gamma
exposures. Surveys of the locations and interviews with the individuals
involved identified no sources of radiation which would produce the exposures.
It is suspected that the high anomalies are due to phenomena associated with
the TLD's rather than some external radiation source; however, the production
of anomalies has never been reproduced in the Laboratory.
A network of 30 stationary gamma rate recorders placed at selected air
sampling locations was used to document gamma exposure rates at fixed locations
(Figure 6). This recorder, designated as the LSI recorder, uses a 2.5-by
30.5-cm (1-by 12- inch) constant-current ionization chamber detector filled
with methane, and operates on either 110 V a.c. or on a self-contained battery
pack. The recorder has a range of 0.004 mR/h to 40 mR/h with an accuracy of
about ±10%. The recorder chart runs at a speed of 7.6 cm (3 in) per hour so
that one chart will last for 10 days, although the charts are mailed to the
NERC-LV weekly. A fresh battery pack will operate the monitor for about 2
weeks at radiation levels below 1 mR/h and about 5 days at radiation levels
above 1 mR/h. The length of unattended operation for a.c. line power is
limited only by the need to change paper in the recorder. During this report
period, no increase in exposure rates attributable to NTS operations was de-
tected by the network of gamma rate recorders.
Milk Surveillance Network
Milk is only one of the sources of dietary intake of environmental radio-
activity; however, it is a very convenient indicator of the general population's
intake of biologically significant radionuclide contaminants. For this reason
it is monitored on a routine basis. Few of the fission product radionuclides
become incorporated into the milk of the cow due to its selective metabolism.
However, those that are incorporated are very important from a radiological
health standpoint, and since they are preferentially transferred to the cow's
milk, it is a very sensitive measure of their concentrations in the environ-
ment. The five most common fission product radionuclides which can occur
in milk are 8S)-90Sr, 131I, 137Cs, and 140Ba. A sixth radionuclide, k°K,
also occurs in milk at a reasonably constant concentration of about 1.2 x 10
18
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pCi/ml. Since this is a naturally occurring radionuclide, it was not included
in the analytical results summarized in this section.
The milk surveillance networks operated by the NERC-LV were the routine
Milk Surveillance Network (MSN) and the Standby Milk Surveillance Network
(SMSN) . The MSN during 1973 (Figure 10) consisted of 26 different locations
at which NERC-LV personnel collected 3.8 litres (1 gal) milk samples from.
family cows, commercial pasteurized milk producers, Grade A raw milk intended
for pasteurization, and Grade A raw milk for local consumption. In the event
of a release of activity from the NTS, intensive sampling would have been con-
ducted in the affected area within 300 miles of the NTS to assess the radio-
nuclide concentrations in milk, the radiation doses that could result from
the ingestion of the milk, and the need for protective action. Milk supplies
and producers beyond 300 miles are sampled with the SMSN.
During 1973, 216 milk samples were collected from the MSN. Of the 26
locations, one was an alternate where milk was sometimes obtained in the event
the primary sampling point did not have milk available. The routine locations
were scheduled for monthly collection until October 1, 1973, when the collection
frequency was changed to quarterly. Milk could not usually be obtained at
all locations at any one collection time. Cows not lactating, no one home, or
no milk on the day the route monitors arrived at the ranch, were some of the
reasons why some of the samples were not collected each collection time. During
the year, milk sampling points also changed as cows were sold, or were other-
wise unavailable for regular milkings.
The SMSN consisted of about 175 Grade A milk processing plants in all
states west of the Mississippi River, which could be requested by telephone to
collect raw milk samples representing milk sheds supplying milk to the plants.
Since there were no releases of radioactivity from the NTS or other test
locations, this network was not activated except to request an occasional
sample to check the network readiness and reliability. No analytical results
are reported here for the SMSN, since the samples were not associated with
any particular nuclear activity or installation.
19
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Each milk sample was analyzed for gamma emitters, and only those samples
collected in January, April, July, and October were analyzed for 89~90Sr.
Samples collected at six locations from the MSN were routinely analyzed for
3H. Table 2 lists the general analytical procedures and detection limits
for these analyses as described by Johns7 and Lem and Snelling.8 For gamma
spectroscopy analyses, the milk was placed in 3.5 litre Marinelli beakers,
which are designed to place the samples around the crystal detector for high
counting efficiency. All routine milk samples were counted for 40 minutes.
A computer was used to calculate the activity concentration of each of the
detected nuclides at the time of count and to extrapolate the results to time
of milking.
The analytical results of milk samples collected from the MSN during
1973 are summarized in Table 6. The maximum, minimum, and average concentra-
tions of the 137Cs, 89~90Sr, and 3H in samples collected during the year are
shown for each sampling location at which these analyses were scheduled. In
the computation of the average concentrations, sample concentrations of less
than the minimum detectable concentration (MDC) were assumed to be equal to
the MDC. If any of the values used in computing the averages were "less than"
values, the average was expressed as a "less than" value. During the year,
there were a few samples which did not have enough volume to provide the usual
minimum sensitivity for gamma spectrum analysis for 137Cs (1.0 x 10~8 yCi/ml).
In these cases, the minimum sensitivity was 1.0 x 10~7 yCi/ml.
No radionuclides from NTS operations were detected in any of the milk
samples. The levels of 137Cs, and 89~90Sr varied during the year in accordance
with what are normally observed as variations in world-wide fallout.
Water Surveillance Network
The Water Surveillance Network (WSN) operated in off-site areas around
the NTS during 1973, consisted of 61 locations until July 1, when Ash Meadows
Lodge was closed. This reduced the network to 59 locations (Figures 11 and 12)
where NERC-LV personnel collected 3.8 litre (1 gal) water samples. The samples
were collected from community water supplies, wells, open and closed springs,
streams, lakes, and ponds. If a release of radioactivity from NTS had occurred
special sampling within the affected area would have been conducted to determin
20
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radionuclide concentrations.
During 1973, 581 water samples were collected from these locations. All
samples were scheduled to be collected monthly until October 1, when the
collection frequency was changed to quarterly. In some cases operational
priorities, frozen sources, etc., prevented the sampling of each location
every time.
All water samples from the WSN were analyzed by gamma spectrometry and
counted for gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity. Network samples from
approximately 14 locations west, south, and southeast of NTS were also
routinely analyzed for 3H. For the purpose of identifying the source of the
gross radioactivity in all network samples and comparing sample concentrations
with the Concentration Guides, selected samples were given special analyses
at least once during the year. For surface water samples, the special analyses
included 89-90Sr, 238-239pU) U} and 226Ra> For drinking water samples, the
analyses included 89~90Sr, U, and 226Ra. Table 2 lists the general analytical
procedures as described by Johns7, Lem and Snelling8, and Talvitie9'10 along
with the detection limits for each analysis.
The analytical results of all samples were published in Radiation Data
and Reports.11 For the purpose of this report, the special analytical results
for only the surface water samples collected from the WSN during 1973 are pre-
sented in Table 7, which lists the concentrations of radioactivity detected
in the samples and the percentage of the Concentration Guide for exposure of
a suitable sample of a population in an uncontrolled area. Table 8 lists the
maximum, minimum, and average concentrations of 3H in water samples collected
from the WSN and percentages of the Concentration Guide for this radionuclide.
No gamma-emitting fission products were detected in any of the samples by
gamma spectrometry. No significant trends were observed in the gross alpha,
gross beta, or 3H results, although surface waters generally contained higher
concentrations than ground waters. The higher concentrations in surface waters
were attributed to world-wide fallout and naturally occurring radionuclides .
Plutonium in Soil
This program began in September 1970 as an integral portion of the work
21
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coordinated by the Nevada Applied Ecology Group (NAEG). The NAEG was formed
by the AEC to coordinate environmental evaluations corresponding to specified
areas of AEC operations. The NAEG's objective in the study is to determine
the inventory, distribution, and movement in the ecosystem of on-NTS and
off-NTS plutonium which was produced by nuclear testing at NTS. A detailed
review of this program is to be the subject of another report.1^
As part of this study, the NERC-LV has been involved in investigating
off-NTS air and soil for plutonium content. Air sample analyses have been
limited to filters collected at selected Air Surveillance Network Stations
(ASN) over a period from 1965 to 1972. Two phases of research have been
conducted. Filters from eight air sampling stations distributed over the
western United States were chosen for analyses to determine ambient levels
of airborne plutonium. Filters were selected for five sampling days near
the middle of each month, and a plutonium assessment was made on composited
filters. The second phase was to analyze filters collected near the NTS.
Stations were selected which were located upwind and downwind of known on-
NTS plutonium deposition areas. Filters were chosen for days when high winds
and dry soil conditions existed in the general area of the NTS.
Analysis has been completed through December 1972 for filters from the
eight stations remote from the NTS. These results are shown in Figure 13
through 16. The data were converted to natural log form and subjected to a
one-way analysis of variance to test any significant difference in the means.
A significant difference between station means was established at the 95%
confidence level. A probable difference between stations was noted at the
99% confidence level. However, the difference at the 99% confidence level
was insufficient to clearly establish any statistically valid difference be-
tween stations. A Sheffe comparison ("hindsight" individual comparison of
means test) of the means was used to determine if the difference at the 95%
confidence level could be established as being due to differences in individua
group means. The Sheffe analysis did show a difference in the majority of
the means in all cases; i.e., no more than three means were close enough to
each other to be considered equal. The eight means may be split into three
groups by the Sheffe comparison. These three groups are (1) Provo, UT, and
22
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Barstow, CA, (2) Spokane, WA, Albuquerque, NM, and St. Joseph, MO, (3)
Austin, TX, Aberdeen, SD, and Medford, OR. This indicates that no trends
existed in the data which could be attributed to differences in station
locations.
The plutonium-in-air data for the stations near the NTS were grouped
according to an upwind and downwind selection made by the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration, Air Resources Laboratory (NOAA-ARL), Las
Vegas, NV (see Table 9). A one-way analysis of variance was performed on
the natural log of the results from each station. For seven of the ten
stations selected, no significant difference in plutonium concentration was
found between upwind and downwind locations. A difference was noted in two
cases, and a probable difference was noted in one case.
Among eight locations in the western United States, plutonium levels vary
according to location and time of collection. Long-term trend calculations
show a generally stable plutonium level in air. Within annual cycles,
plutonium concentrations may vary from 1.0 x 10~17 to 1.0 x 10~15 yCi/ml.
The analysis of filters collected near the NTS has not detected any re-
suspension of existing off-NTS plutonium deposition or transport of plutonium
off of the NTS by wind. Comparison of downwind results for the ten near-NTS
stations and results for the eight stations from other states indicates that
only background concentrations were detected.
Initial soil sampling began in September 1970. The selected sampling
method was first field tested and refined to suit operational and analytical
requirements. This method is defined as the trench method. A trench was dug
and a sample was removed from one side of the trench, over a given surface
area, and at various sampling depths. By this method a preliminary soil pro-
file sampling survey was performed to determine the vertical distribution of
plutonium and to define an optimum sampling depth. Since this preliminary
survey showed that 90% or more of the plutonium concentration was found in
the top 3 cm of soil in 86% of the samples collected, a 5-cm depth was chosen
with a sampling area of 10 by 10 cm. Ten 10- by 10-cm cores were composited
to form a total sampling area of 1000 cm for each sample location. All
sampling sites were chosen from undisturbed desert "pavement" areas at the
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intersections of an 8- by 8-km (5-by-5-mi) grid, as much as possible.
Each sample was returned to the NERC-LV in a polyethylene bag and air
dried. The total weight was measured and the sample screened with a U. S.
Standard screen of 10-mesh. The portion passing through the 10-mesh screen
was divided with a Jones sample splitter. Successive splits were made to
achieve a sample of about 50 g for Pu analysis. The remainder of the fraction
passing 10-mesh was redivided to yield a sample size of about 600 g, which
was gamma counted. The 50-g sample for Pu analysis was oven dried and
pulverized to less than 200 mesh. A one-gram aliquot was then collected from
this sample for complete dissolution in nitric, hydrochloric, and hydrofluoric
acids; the Pu being separated from the solution by ion exchange techniques and
electrodeposited on a stainless steel planchet for alpha spectrometric anal-
ysis.9»10
The results of soil samples collected around the NTS and analyzed for
plutonium content show that 239Pu is present outside the boundaries of the
NTS at levels greater than that which would be expected from world-wide
fallout (~1.0 x lO"3 yCi/m2). The preliminary results of analyses completed
through 1973 are shown in Figure 17 which is a computer output of results.
The program employed develops a grid based on the samples shown and inter-
polates the contours shown. The contours shown are not to be interpreted
as defining the exact plutonium distribution, because of the variability
in sample results and the existence of areas where sampling is incomplete.
The contours will be revised with further sampling and further refinements
in the computer contouring program. The figure should not be taken out
of context or interpreted without qualification. It is shown here to
illustrate the magnitude of the sampling program, show sample results, and
give a preview of the final output of the program.
Included in the sampling design was a replicate sampling and replicate
analysis project developed to give insight into the variance among samples
and analyses. Various transformations of these data were attempted to
develop meaningful statistics to describe the data. The logarithm base 10
of the data was found to be the most favorable transformation; however,
24
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when this transformation was used to develop a log normal plot a
heterogeneous distribution was shown within the data. The distribution
of results of all samples was plotted which showed a similar log-normal
curve. The total distribution was introduced into a computer analysis
assuming two overlapping log-normal distributions. The data fit the
assumption and yielded two distributions as follows:
of Total Points 68% Confidence Interval of Geometric Mean
(10-3
14.5 4.2 <41 <400
85.5 1.0 < 3.5 < 12
The small underlying distribution is considered to be evidence of "hot
particles" in the samples.
25
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Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program. NTS Network
In previous years, hydrological monitoring and investigation programs
were conducted for the AEG by the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Teledyne
Isotopes (formerly Isotopes, Inc.). As a. continuation of this effort, the
AEG requested the NERC-LV to establish a Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring
Program in the vicinity of all active and inactive test areas. The purpose
of this program, as outlined by the Nevada Operations Office, AEG, is to
obtain and record appropriate data from reliable sources adequate to:
(1) assure the public safety;
(2) if the need should arise, inform the public, the news media,
and the scientific community; and
(3) document compliance with existing federal, state, and local
1 •
anti-contamination requirements.
To implement this long-term program, NERC-LV began sampling water from
wells, springs, and spring-fed surface water which are down-gradient of the
movement of ground water at the NTS and its environs, and at the sites of
Project Shoal, Project Dribble, Project Gnome, Project Gasbuggy, Project
Rulison, and the Faultless Event of the Central Nevada Test Area (CNTA).
Samples of underground water sources were collected from well heads or
spring discharge points where possible. If pumps were not available, an
electrical-mechanical water sampler capable of collecting three-liter samples
at depths up to 1800 m (6000 ft) was used.
Samples of raw water, and filtered and acidified water were collected
at each location. Raw, unfiltered samples were analyzed for 3H, filtered
water (water passing a 0.45-ym filter and adjusted to pH 1 with nitric acid)
was given radiochemical analyses, and two filtered samples were collected for
stable chemistry analyses. For the NTS network, the water was analyzed for
3H, gross beta, gross alpha, and gamma emitters. In addition, the NTS monthly
samples were routinely analyzed for U and Pu each quarter. In the event the
gross alpha exceeded 3 x 10~9 uCi/ml, the samples were analyzed for 226Ra,
and if the gross beta exceeded 10 x 10~9 pCi/ml, Sr analyses were done. For
26
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the NTS semi-annual locations all of the above analyses were performed
except for 2 Ra which was done only if the gross alpha exceeded 3 x 10~9
yCi/ml. With all NTS samples 3H enrichment techniques were used which
lowers the MDC to ~6 x 10 9 yCi/ml. Table 2 shows a complete summary of
analytical procedures.
Not all of the analyses have been completed for the NTS monthly samples
collected in 1973. Tables 10 and 11 give the results of all the NTS hydro-
logical sampling and analyses accomplished during this report period.
During this report period attempts were made to sample 9 stations
monthly and 18 stations send-annually (Figures 18 and 19). Additional wells
will be added to the network in 1974. Not all stations could be sampled with
the desired frequency because of weather preventing access to the wells and
inoperative pumps. The criteria for selecting the 9 monthly stations were as
follows:
(1) that they be wells on the Nevada Test Site used for public supply;
(2) that they be close-in wells along most probable flow lines down-
gradient from centers of testing, or wells at or near the most
important exits from the test site;
(3) that they have currently operating pumps for ease of frequent
sampling;
(4) that they can provide samples which are representative of a large
volume of aquifer; and
(5) that they are likely to be available for sampling over a long period
of time.
The criteria for selecting semi-annual sampling locations are essentially
the same, but also include industrial supply wells on the Nevada Test Site
and representative wells along possible, but less probable, flow lines. Several
stations that are off the flow lines leading from the test areas, or that are
so remote as to preclude any contamination, have been added for control stations
and for public assurance. These include Watertown Well 3, two wells at Indian
Springs, the spring at Shoshone, CA, and Well HS/48-2dd near Beatty. Four
sites in the Ash Meadows area were selected to provide data on the final
27
-------
discharge from all areas in that ground water system.
All gamma scans were negligible for fission products, and the only
Q
radionuclide unusual to well water that was detected was H in Wells C
Q
and C-l. The °H in these two wells was introduced as part of a tracer
experiment. Well C-l had an average concentration of 3H, of about 1.0 x 10~7
yCi/ml; less than 0.001 of the Concentration Guide for radiation workers. No
radioactivity which could be related to NTS tests was detected in any off-NTS
wells. A sample collected in July from the Beatty, NV, city water supply did
show a concentration of 1.5 x 10~8 yCi/ml of 3H. A sample collected at the
same location in January 1973, showed no 3H concentrations above the MDC of
~6 x 10~9 yCi/ml. The July 1973 sample is being recounted, and a sample
collected in January 1974, is also in analysis. At the present time the 1.5
x 10~8 yCi/ml concentration at Beatty is considered to be a statistical anomaly.
28
-------
Whole Body Counting
Since 1966 the NERC-LV has maintained a whole-body counter for the
purpose of measuring body burdens of radioactive contamination in employees
exposed to or handling radioactive materials, and in off-site residents who
might have been exposed to radioactivity released from the NTS.
The whole-body counter and scanner are contained in an underground
vault located 8 m (25 ft) below ground level. Each instrument is housed
in identical shielded rooms whose walls are 12.7 cm (5 in) pre-World War II
steel, and 3.17 mm (1.8 in) of lead.
The detector used in counting area residents is a Nal(Tl) crystal with
a diameter of 27.9 cm (11 in) and a thickness of 10.2 cm (4 in). The crystal
is optically coupled to seven matched photo-multiplier tubes of the 'Venetian
blind" type. The counting geometry is an arc with a radius of curvature of
0.6 m formed by a plexiglass chair. The lower level of detection in this
geometry for 137Cs is 5 x 10~9 yCi/g of body weight for a 40-minute count.
In late 1970, the AEC/NERC-LV decided to begin a regularly scheduled
program of counting selected residents in the near-NTS environs. For this
report, only the results of those individuals counted during 1973 are in-
cluded. A report of the entire program, since its inception in 1970, is in
preparation.
During 1973, eighty-seven individuals from 15 locations were counted.
These locations included Pahrump, Springdale, Beatty, Moapa, Caliente, Pioche,
Nyala, Diablo, Goldfield, Lathrop Wells, Ely, Tonopah, Twin Springs, Spring
Meadow Farms, NV; and Death Valley Junction, CA. Each individual was given
a complete hematological examination and thyroid profile, plus a physical
examination which showed no conditions attributable to radioactivity. A
Q
urine sample was collected for H and Pu analyses.
The maximum, minimum, and average concentration of 37Cs was 5.6 x 10~8
yCi/g, 5 x 10~9 yCi/g, and 1.9 x 10~8 yCi/g body weight, respectively. The
average concentration of 1.8 x 10~8 yCi/g for 137Cs is somewhat lower than
levels previously found in this study group, indicating the possibility of:
29
-------
(1) a decrease of 137Cs in the environment, (2) the lowering of 137Cs uptake
through reduction of the "beef vector," or a combination of the two factors.
The maximum concentration of 3H was 3.9 x 10~6 yCi/ml, the minimum was
2.4 x 10~7 yCi/ml, and the average was 5.3 x 10~7 yCi/ml. No 238Pu or 239Pu
was detected above the MDC's of 3.6 x 10"11 pCi/ml and 1.7 x HT11 pCi/ml,
respectively.
OTHER TEST SITES
Two programs were operative in 1973 to provide additional data on long-
term surveillance at all continental test sites, past and present. The two
programs now in effect are (1) sampling for 3H in natural gas from wells
adjacent to the Gasbuggy Test Well near Farmington, NM, and (2) scheduled
water sampling of wells and other water sources in the vicinity of all con-
tinental sites. A description of the two programs is included in this section^
During this reporting period, the NERC-LV also provided aerial and ground
surveillance for a production test of the nuclear stimulated Gasbuggy natural
gas well near Farmington, NM. This surveillance consisted of a scheduled
collection of environmental samples before, during, and after the production
test.
Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
During 1973, the NERC-LV continued this program at all off-NTS test sites
except for Amchitka Island, AK, and Project Rio Blanco, CO. These two sites
are the responsibility of other agencies. Sampling frequency for the off-NTS
test sites is normally once each year in the spring and after any flaring of
natural gas from those sites where gas wells were stimulated by nuclear deto-
nations. Collection procedures were essentially the same as those used in the
NTS networks. Most samples were analyzed for 3H, gross alpha, and gross beta
by radio-chemistry techniques, and for gamma-emitters by gamma spectroscopy;
Q
however, there were some wells and surface supplies for which only H analysis
was performed. Selected samples were also analyzed for 89~90Sr and 226Ra, A
complete summary of analytical procedures and detection limits is shown in
Table 2.
30
-------
The analytical results of all water samples collected during 1973 are
summarized in Table 12. All locations sampled are shown on Figures 20
through 26. For each concentration, the percent of the appropriate Con-
centration Guide was calculated and listed. As shown by the table, con-
centrations of radioactivity above the Concentration Guides were found in
samples collected at the sites of Project Dribble and Gnome. Well HT-2M, ;
which is located on the Project Dribble site, is approximately 90 m (300 ft)
from Well HT-2 in which approximately 1280 m3 (338,000 gallons) of radio-
active liquid waste were injected during 1965. As a consequence of this,
o
high levels of H were observed at most depths sampled in HT-2M. The maxi-
mum concentration observed was 8.0 x 10~5 yCi/ml in a sample collected from
716 m (2350 ft) below the surface on March 27, 1973. This concentration was
2.7% of the Concentration Guide for 3H for exposure to an individual in an
uncontrolled area. A second sampling of HT-2M was accomplished in 1973 as
requested by AEG to verify the radioactivity concentrations which could be
used in determining the final disposition of the well. These results are also
included in Table 12. Although these contaminated wells are on private land,
the wells are fenced, posted, and locked to prevent their use by unauthorized
personnel.
USGS Wells Nos. 4 and 8 located on the Project Gnome site were used in
a USGS radioactive tracer study during the first quarter of 1963. Cesium-137,
131I, 90Sr, and 3H were injected in Well No. 8, and water was pumped from
nearby Well No. 4. As a result, high levels of 3H and 90Sr were observed in
samples collected from both wells in 1973, while 137Cs was observed only in
the sample from Well No. 8. As indicated by Table 12, the highest concentra-
tion of 3H was 47% of its Concentration Guide for an individual in an un-
controlled area and the highest concentration for 90Sr was 50 times its
Concentration Guide. The concentrations of radioactivity in all the other
wells sampled near the two contaminated wells were representative of normal
background levels. These two contaminated wells, which are on federal land,
are also within a locked, fenced area.
31
-------
In 1972, gross beta levels above 3.0 x 10~8 yCi/ml were also observed
in samples collected from Flowing Well No. 2 (3.8 x 10~8 yCi/ml) near the
Project Shoal site, and Lake Jara (3.6 x 10~8 yCi/ml) and El Paso Natural
Gas Well 10-36 (4.7 x 10~8 yCi/ml), both of which are near the Project
Gasbuggy site. None of these sources of water is used for domestic purposes
Analyses were performed on these samples during 1973 to identify the radio-
nuclides contributing to the gross radioactivity. The results of these
analyses are also included in Table 12. No individual radionuclides were
identified by these analyses which would explain the relatively high gross
beta activities.
Natural Gas Burner Sampling, Gasbuggy Site
During 1973, integrated monthly samples of the water condensate from
the combustion of natural gas were collected from a trunk line servicing
28 natural gas wells adjacent to the Gasbuggy Test Well near Farmington, NM,
from January 1 through September 5. The unit was inoperative from September
until November 1, and one sample was collected for the period November 1
through December 31. This study, which became routine by November 1971 foil
ing the development of a gas burner system, was initiated to determine if
natural gas from the nuclear-stimulated Gasbuggy test well would introduce
radioactive contaminants into the surrounding producing wells. Tritium was
chosen as a. suitable indicator of radioactive contamination.
The gas burner system, described in more detail by Connolly,13 operatec
by passing an air/gas mixture through a combustion chamber where it is con-
tinuously burned. The resultant water vapor is condensed out of the exhaust
gases, collected, and sent to the NERC-LV for liquid scintillation counting
for 3H.
All concentrations of 3H in the nine condensate samples collected in
CY 1973, as in samples collected in previous years, were below the minimum
detectable concentration of about 2.4 x 10~7 yCi/ml of condensate water.
Project Gasbuggy Production Test
During the production test conducted at the Project Gasbuggy site from
May 15 to November 6, 1973, natural gas containing 85Kr and 3H was flared
32
-------
continuously. On several occasions tritiated water, which had been removed
from the natural gas, was converted to steam and injected into the flaring
plume. The flow rate at which the natural gas was flared varied as shown
on Figure 27, which also shows when steam containing 3H was injected into
the flaring plume and when aerial and ground sampling was conducted by
NERC-LV personnel. The primary radionuclides of concern were identified
from previous surveillance programs for Project Gasbuggy to be 3H and 85Kr,
of which a total of approximately 49 Ci and 5 Ci, respectively, was released
into the atmosphere during this production test.
Aerial sampling detected concentrations of 3H above estimated background
levels in the plume on each mission flown during the periods May 19-21 and
July 25-26. The concentrations of 85Kr in all samples collected during flar-
ing operations were considered to be at background levels, about 1.7 x lO"1^
yCi/ml except for one sample collected on May 19, which had a 85Kr concentra-
tion of 2.1 x 10~1]- yCi/ml. This concentration is about 0.02% of the Concentra-
tion Guide for a suitable population sample in an uncontrolled area. The
highest concentration of 3H detected in aircraft samples was 4.8 x 10"11
yCi/ml of air in a sample collected on July 25 at an altitude of 2250 m (7400 ft)
MSL, 1.8 km (1.1 mi) at 260° from the flare stack. This concentration is
approximately 0.07% of the Concentration Guide (6.7 x 10~8 jjCi/ml) for con-
tinuous exposure to a suitable population sample in an uncontrolled area.
Mobile monitors on the ground, who were positioned downwind of the stack
plume by personnel in the aircraft, also collected atmospheric moisture samples
containing 3H above estimated background during each sampling period in May
and July. The highest H concentration in atmospheric moisture samples col-
lected by mobile monitors on the ground was collected at an unpopulated
location 0.5 km (0.3 mi) at 341° from the flare stack, on July 25. This con-
centration, which was 3 x 10"10 yCi/ml of air, is approximately 0.4% of the
Concentration Guide for a suitable population sample in an uncontrolled area.
Tritium concentrations above estimated background were found in vegetation
and soil collected during the July 25-26 surveillance operations and the
November 6-8 post-flaring surveillance; no 3H was detected in these sample
33
-------
types during the May 19-21 surveillance. No surface water samples showed
concentrations of 3H above estimated background. The highest 3H concentra-
tion in vegetation (2.6 x 10~5 yd/ml H20) was measured in a sample collected
at Station 20 on November 7, 2 km (1.2 mi) and 333° azimuth from the flare
stack. The highest 3H concentration in soil (1.7 x 10~6 yCi/ml H20) was
measured in a sample collected at Station 10 on November 7, 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
and 102° azimuth from the flare stack.
o
From the highest concentrations of 3H which were measured in atmospheric
moisture samples, it is concluded that any direct exposures to the off-site
population were all below 0.4% of the Concentration Guide for this radio-
nuclide. There are no concentration guides for H in vegetation or soil.
However, all vegetation samples were native, uncultivated shrubs, which are
not used for human consumption or known to be of consideration in the food
chain of area residents.
All concentrations of radionuclides detected should be considered as
maximum since considerable effort was made to sample at times, places, and
under atmospheric conditions when plume material was most likely to be on
or near the surface at maximum concentrations. In addition, much of the
sampling of atmospheric moisture was done when stored, tritiated water was
being deliberately injected at higher than normal rates into the flare.
References to exposures to a suitable population sample are more hypothetical
than real, since all samples containing concentrations of 3H above estimated
background were collected at unpopulated locations.
34
-------
REFEEENCES
1. "Effluent and Environmental Monitoring and Reporting," U. S. Atomic
Energy Commission Manual, Chapter 0513. U. S. Atomic Energy
Commission, Washington, D. C.
2. Quiring, Ralph E., "Climatological Data, Nevada Test Site, Nuclear
Rocket Development Station (NRDS)," ERLTM-ARL-7. ESSA Research
Laboratories. August 1968.
3. "Environmental Statement, Underground Nuclear Testing Program
Nevada Test Site," WASH-1562 Draft Copy, U. S. Atomic Energy
Commission. October 1972.
4. "Selected Census Information Around the Nevada Test Site,"
WEBLV-539-8, Western Environmental. ..Research Laboratory.-
Environmental Protection Agency, Las Vegas, NV, 1972.
5. "Standards for Radiation Protection," U. S. Atomic Energy
Commission Manual, Chapter 0524. U. S. Atomic Energy Commission,
Washington, D. C.
6. Stevenson, D. L. and Johns, F. B. Proceedings of "International
Symposium on Rapid Methods for Measurement of Radioactivity in the
Environment," July 5-9, 1971, Neuherberg, Federal Republic of
Germany. International Atomic Energy Agency, STI/PUB/289,
Vienna, 1971.
7. Johns, F. B. "Southwestern Radiological Health Laboratory Handbook
of Radiochemical Analytical Methods," SWRHL-11. Southwestern
Radiological Health Laboratory, U. S. Department of Health,
Education and Welfare. Las Vegas, NV. March 1970.
8. Lem, P. N. and Snelling, R. N. "Southwestern Radiological Health
Laboratory Data Analysis and Procedures Manual," SWRHL-21.
Southwestern Radiological Health Laboratory, Environmental
Protection Agency, Las Vegas, NV. March 1971.
9. Talvitie, N. A. "Electrodeposition of Actinides for Alpha
Spectrometric Determination," Analytical Chemistry, February
1972, Vol. 44, p. 280.
35
-------
10. Talvitie, N. A. "Radiochemical Determination of Plutonium of
Environmental and Biological Samples by Ion Exchange,"
Analytical Chemistry. November 1971, Vol. 43, p. 1827.
11. Radiation Data and Reports, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Washington, D. C. 20460
12. Church, B. ed., "Distribution and Inventory, A Program Element
of the Nevada Applied Ecology Group, Progress Report No. One,"
U. S. Atomic Energy Commission, Nevada Operations Office.
To be published.
13. Connolly, John L. "The NERC-LV Burner—A Monitor for Radioactivity
in Natural Gas," NERC-LV-539-7. U. S. Environmental Protection
Agency, National Environmental Research Center, Las Vegas, NV.
February 1973.
14. Information provided by Eddie W. Chew, Senior Physicist, Nuclear
Group, Energy Resource Development, El Paso Natural Gas Co.,
El Paso, TX 79978.
36
-------
I NELLIS
AIR FORCE
RANGE
Figure 1. Nevada Test Site Location
37
-------
Nuclear Rocket Development
Station
Figure 2. Nevada Test Site Road and Facility Map
38
-------
PAHUTE MESA
3ROUND WATER
SYSTEM
ASH MEADOWS
GROUND WATER SYSTEM
NEVADA TEST SITE
LATHROP
•7 x .., = , , ^»^ VALLEY
DEATH VALLEY JCT.
SCALE IN KILOMETRES
O 16 32
SCALE IN MILES
O 1O 20
LEGEND
SILENT CANYON CALDERA -^ • . ^—. .—
riMBER MOUNTAIN CALDERA OOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
FLOW DIRECTION
3ROUND WATER SYSTEM BOUNDARIES
Figure 3. Ground Water Flow Systems - NTS
39
-------
ADULTS
CHILDREN
DAIRY COWS
FAMILY COWS
NO SURVEY CONDUCTED
Figure A. Population Distribution by Aziraith/Distance
40
-------
SCALE IN KILOMETRES
0 10 20 30 40 50
i^%
SCALE IN WLES
Figure 5. General Land Use, Nevada Test Site Vicinity
41
-------
CANADA
7 lT"Use '""e-cc!, wy°MiNG
/ -f^^SJ ll° «S..
\ G—so,A ""• UTAH • OO«-EB [
—0\ .^"cLC'0"".^/— °-^D°
;--«0\-"'^!fe..fc.c.e.cr;,;r «—
I "CWMtXICO I
.^x^. / ^r-r^J —»
O PREFILTER CHARCOAL CARTRIDGE
GAMMA RATE RECORDER
PREFILTER GAMMA RATE RECORDER
PREFILTER. CHARCOAL CARTRIDGE
PREFILTER ONLY
STANDBY STATIONS
> i
|-<*ff;:r:^:7"-:::r::::.;fi:^r^" ~"rA
MEXICO \
Figure 6. Air Surveillance Network
-------
OUCKWATER
CURRANT MAINT. STA.
CURRANT
ROUND MTN.
MAINT. STA
BLUE JAY
MAINT. StA.
SUNNYSIDE
CLARK'S STA.
WARM
SPGS.
DIABLO
MAINT.
STA.
COYOTE SMT.
HANCOCK SMT. >\(
GATE TOO
NELLIS
AIR FORCE
SPRINGDALE
DESERT
ROCK
LATHROP WELLS
CACTUS SPRINGS
FURNACE
CREEK
DEATH
VALLEY JCT.
PAHRUMP
LAS VEGA
SHOSHONE
/
SAMPLING STATIONS
SCALE IN MILES
10 20 30 40
SCALE IN KILOMETRES
SO 0 10 20 30 40 50
Figure 7. Noble Gas and Tritium Surveillance Network
43
-------
NEVADA
TFST SITE!AIR FORCE;
I RANGE !
Figure 8. Dosimetry Network
44
-------
' I Al t IN hi C'liUlRI f
0 10 20 30 40 50
Figure 9. Isopleth Plot of 1973 TLD Exposures
45
-------
J—1H •• •^^^^••B
SCALE IN KILOMETRES
0 10 20 30 40 50
1^ ' •
Figure 10. Milk Surveillance Network
46
-------
SAMPLING LOCATION
US ENVRONMENTAL
PROTECTION AGENCY
SCALE IN KILOMETRES >_
0 10 20 30 40 50 100
Figure 11. Water Surveillance Network
47
-------
Figure 12. Water Surveillance Network, Las Vegas Valley
48
-------
1.0
0.1
o
in
b
^ 0.01
< 1.0
CO
C\J
BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA 054
PROVO, UTAH 082
0.1
0.01
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
Figure 13. Pu-239 Concentrations in Air
at Barstow, CA and Provo, UT
49
-------
1.0
0.1
E
6
ID
T~
O
AUSTIN, TEXAS 093
< 1.0
O)
00
CM
i
Q.
i SPOKANE, WASHINGTON 051
0.1
0.01
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
Figure 14. Pu-239 Concentrations in Air
at Austin, XX and Spokane, WA
50
-------
1.0
" ABERDEEN, SOUTH DAKOTA 064
0.1
O
3.
in
< 1.0
CO
CM
i
0.
i ST. JOSEPH, MISSOURI 061
0.1
0.01
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
Figure 15. Pu-239 Concentrations in Air
at Aberdeen, SD and St. Joseph, 'MO
51
-------
1.0
~ ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO 041
0.1
E
O
in
b
< 1.0
c
CO
CM
i
3
Q.
i MEDFORD, OREGON 069
0.1
. 1
0.01
T1970I
1966
1967
1968
1969
1971
1972
Figure 16. Pu-239 Concentrations in Air
at Albuquerque, NM and Medford, OR
52
-------
SCALE OF KILOMETRES
10 20 30 40
SCALE OF MILES
10 20 30 40 50
J.J..
"/JN I '*.' ,.«•*-•?• .l;'":, ».: « ' V''' v -
" ''' '~ v -'
NEVADA
TEST
SITE
"a--
1.1
Figure 17. Plutonium in Soil (10~3 yCi/m2)
53
-------
EXPERIMENTAL FARM
BUFFER ZONE
Nuclear Rocket Development
Station
V.ELL UE5c
WELL 5b
A WELL 5c
MONTHLY
SEM! ANNUAL
Figure 18. On-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Network
54
-------
SPRINGDALE '-
GOSS SPGS. ~
BEATTY
NELLIS
AIR FORCE
RANGE
NRD_S
LATHROP WELLS
FAIRBANK SPGS.
• 175/5OE -14CAC .
CRYSTAL POOL
•t8S/51E7db
ASH MEADOWS
DEATH VALLEY
JUNCTION
MONTHLY
SEMI-ANNUAL
0 2 < 68 10 13 14 16 It 20
SCALE OF KILOMETRES
02 4 6 « 10 12 14
SCALE OF MILES
SHOSHONE
SEWER CO. #1
TO LAS VEGAS
Figure 19. Off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Network
55
-------
POTTER RN.
GRAND VALLEY
CITY WATER
A. GARDNER RN.(
G. SCHWAB
BN...^«
. HAYWARD RN.
• \BATTLEMENT CREEK
•'CER TEST WELL
SPRING^® SGZ
SCALE
VtGA RES
SCALE IN MILES
0 5
Figure 20. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations,
Rulison, CO, Project Rulison
56
-------
LOWER LITTLE CREEK
T. SPEIGHTSOSGZ
^M. LOWE' •-
SCALE IN KILOMETRES
O 5 1O 15 2O 25 3O 35 4O
SCALE IN MILES
Figure 21. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations,
Tatum Dome, MS, Project Dribble/Miracle Play
57
-------
HALF MOON CREEK
• SHELL NO. 1
HT-5VHT-4
LAMAR
CO.
SCALE IN FEET
0 400 800 1200 1600 2000
LAMAR
COUNTY
TATUM DOME
LOCATION MAPS
SCALE IN METRES
125 250 375 500 625
Figure 22. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations,
Tatum Dome, MS, Project Dribble/Miracle Play
58
-------
NEVADA
RENO
>TONOPAH
CENTRAL NEVADA
TEST AREA
LAS
N^TE
f^
N
HOT CREEK SPRING
SCALE IN KILOMETRES
O1 2345678'
SCALE IN MILES*,
O 1 2 3 4 5
SGZ/
HTH 2
6 MILE WELL*
BLUE JAY
MAINT. STA.
Figure 23. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations
Central Nevada Test Area, Faultless Event
59
-------
FALLON
K
^-\
FRENCHMAN
• FLOWING WELL -2
• H-3
HUNTS STATION*
SGZ
HS-1
SCALE IN MILES
0 5
SCALE IN KILOMETRES
8
CHURCHILL COUNTY
MINERAL COUNTY
Figure 24. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations,
Fallen, NV, Project Shoal
60
-------
TO DULCE CITY WATER
RIO ARRIBA COUNTY
LOCATION MAPS
• BIXLER RN.
JICARILLA (NORTH)
TO LA JARA LAKE
BUBBLING SPG.
TO BLANCO
(SAN JUAN RIVER)
CAVE SPG.
-N
• ARNOLD RN.
SGZ WELL 1O-36
LOWER BURROW
CANYON
SCALE IN KILOMETRES
0
SCALE IN MILES
0 5
Figure 25. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations
Rio Arriba County, NM, Project Gasbuggy
61
-------
CARLSBAD
CTTV
WATER LOVING
| NEW
MEXICO
MALAGA
CARlSBADy SCALE IN MILESftpJ
5 10 v '
SCALE IN KILOMETRES PECOS RIVER
• PUMPING
STATION-1
r\t_o
\
OFF-SITE SAMPLING LOCATIONS
1.6 KILOMETRES
1 MILE
USGS TEST WELLS-4&8
4
8
i
i
i
i
SGZ
.A'
C>
1
USGS TEST WELL 1
ON-SITE SAMPLING LOCATION
Figure 26. Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Locations
Carlsbad, NM, Project Gnome/Coach
62
-------
Q
uT 5
SI"
_ Qj
5 £
i
UJ o
(-54
< 3
01 z
o
I1,
_l J
U.
2
i
i
S"
rE'
*M
^
INJE
1
T
UJ
C_J
— z
CM «,;
UJ
> >
CTIC
'
,
|\
IV
1
25
\
"
N
I
10
S
!0
»
STEAM INJECTION
• i i i i i i
ON JULY 25_ ONLY
5
0
5
* -
rT->
UJ
O
z
<
z?
01
ID
CO
04
CM
>-
M
D
25
0 15
A)
A
5
0
S 20
25
5
10
• r A
t M
S 20
jt 1 IS
^-
\
25
1 F P
J L- V/
H
U-i
U
z.
_i
u,
rr
13
0
2:
\
1 0
10
N
>
IS 20
A
MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER
1973
Figure 27. Variation of Natural Gas Flow Rate During Flaring
Period, Project Gasbuggy Production Test
63
-------
Table 1. Underground Testing Conducted Off the Nevada Test Site
Name of Test,
Operation or
Project
Date
Location
Depth
m
Yield (ft)
Purpose of the Event
d e
'
Project
Coach3
Project
Gnome/
Shoalb
12/10/61
10/26/63
48 km (30
Carlsbad,
45 km (28
mi)
NM
mi)
SE
SE
of
of
3
~12
.lktf
kt
350
(1184)
366
Multi-purpose
Nuclear test
experiment .
detection
Project Dribble
(Salmon Event)
10/22/64
Operation Long 10/29/65
Shot
Project Dribbleb 12/3/66
(Sterling Event)
Project Gasbuggya 12/10/67
Faultless Event
1/19/68
Project Miracle 2/2/69
Play (Diode Tube)
Fallen, NV
34 km (21 mi) SW of
Hattiesburg, MI
Amchitka Island, AK
34 km (21 mi) SW of
Hattiesburg, MI
88 km (55 mi) E of
Farmington, NM
Central Nevada Test
Area 96 km (60 mi) E
of Tonopah, NV
34 km (21 mi) SW of
Hattiesburg, MI
Project Rulison'
9/10/69 19 km (12 mi) SW of
Rifle, CO
Operation Milrow 10/2/69 Amchitka Island, AK
Project Miracle
Play (Humid
Water)b
Operation
Cannikin0
4/19/70 34 km (21 mi) SW of
Hattiesburg, MI
11/6/71 Amchitka Island, AK
(1200) research experiment.
5.3 kt 823
(2700)
~80 kt 716
(2350)
380 t 823
(2700)
29 kt 1292
(4240)
200 kt- 914
1 Mt (3000)
Non- 823
nuclear (2700)
explosion
40 kt 2568
(8425)
~1 Mt 1219
(4000)
Non- 823
nuclear (2700)
explosion
<5 Mt 1829
(6000)
Nuclear test detection
research experiment.
DOD nuclear test detection
experiment.
Nuclear test detection
research experiment.
Joint government-industry
gas stimulation experiment
Calibration test.
Detonated in Salmon/
Sterling cavity.
Seismic studies.
Gas stimulation experiment,
Calibration test.
Detonated in Salmon/
Sterling cavity.
Seismic studies.
Test of warhead for
Spartan missle
64
-------
Table 1. (continued) Underground Testing Conducted Off the Nevada Test Site
Name of Test,
Operation or
Project
Project Rio
Blanco3
Date Location
5/17/73 48 km (30 mi) SW of
Meeker, CO
Depth
H m
Yield (ft)
3x30 kt 1700
to
2000
(5840
to
6690)
Purpose of the Event '
Gas stimulation experimen
rlowshare events
Vela Uniform Events
weapons tests
Information from "Revised Nuclear Test Statistics," distributed on January 15, 1973,
by Henry G. Vermillion, Director, Office of Information Services, U.S. Atomic Energy
Commission, Las Vegas, Nevada.
Q
News release AL-62-50, AEC Albuquerque Operations Office, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
December 1, 1961.
f,,
The Effects of Nuclear Weapons" Rev. Ed. 1964.
65
-------
Table 2. Summary of Analytical Procedures
Type of
Analysis
Gamma
Spectroscopy
89Sr-90Sr
Analytical
Equipment
Gamma spectro-
meter with
10-cm thick
by 10-cm diam-
eter Nal (Tl-
activated)
. crystal with
input to 200
channels (0-2
MeV) of 400-
channel, pulse-
height analyzer,
Low-background
thin-window,
gas-flow pro-
portional .
counter with a
5.7-cm diameter
Counting
Period
(Min)
40-100 for
milk and
water sam-
ples; 10
for air
filters.
50
Analytical
Procedures
Radionuclide
concentra-
tions quan-
titated from
gamma spec-
trometer
data by com-
puter using
the matrix
technique.
Chemical
separation by
ion exchange.
Sample
Size
(Litre)
0.4-3.5 for
milk and water
samples ; 350m3
of air for
filter samples.
1.0
Detection
Limit
For milk and watef
generally 1x10" 8
yCi/ml for most
common fallout radio-
nuclides in a simple
spectrum. For air
filters, lxlO~13
yCi/ml.
89Sr * 2xlO~9 yCi/ml'
90Sr - IxlO"9 yCi/ml1
Separated sam-
window (80 yg/cm).
pie counted
successively;
activity cal-
culated by
simultaneous
equations .
3H Enrichment
(Long-term
Hydrological
Samples)
238 239pu
'23k'235
Automatic 100
liquid •
scintillation
counter with
output printer.
Automatic 100
scintillation
counter with
output printer.
Alpha spectre- 1000 -
meter with 45 1400
mm2, 300 ym
depletion depth
silicon surface
barrier detectors
operated in
vacuum chambers.
Sample pre- 0.005
pared by
distillation.
Sample concen- 0.25
trated by
electrolyses
followed by
distillation.
Sample is 1
digested with
acid, separated
by ion exchange,
electroplated on
stainless steel
planchet and count-
ed by alpha spec-
trometer.
-2.2x10'' yCi/ml*
==6.0xlO-9 yd/ml
238pu =
yCi/mla
239pu>
238U = 2xlO-n
yCi/mla .
66
-------
Table 2. (continued) Summary of Analytical Procedures
Type of
Analysis
226Ra
Gross alpha
Gross beta
in liquid
samples
Gross beta
on air fil-
ters
Counting
Analytical Period
Equipment (Min)
Single channel 30
analyzer
coupled to
P.M. tube detec-
tor.
Low-background 50
thin-window,
gas-flow pro-
portional
counter with a
5.7-cm diameter
window (80 yg/cm2)
Low-level end 5
window, gas
flow
proportional
counter with a
12 . 7-cm diam-
eter window
(100 mg/cm2)
Sample
Analytical Size
Procedures (Litre)
Detection
Limit
Precipitated 1.5 IxlO"13 yCi/ml
with Ba, con-
verted to
chloride.
Stored for
30 days for
222Ra 226Ra to
equilibrate.
Radon gas
pumped into
scintillation
cell for alpha
scintillation
counting.
Sample eva- 0.2 a *
porated; 8 -
residue
counted.
•
Filters 10-cm 0
counted upon diameter
receipt and glass fiber
at 5 and 12 filter; sam-
days after pie collected
collection; from -350 m3.
last two
counts used
to extra-
polate con-
centration
to mid-col-
lection time
assuming T"1 2
decay or using
experimentally
derived decay.
3xlO~9 yCi/mla
2xlO"9 yCi/mla
.06 x 10" 1 2 yCi/mlb
67
-------
Table 2. (continued) Summary of Analytical Procedures
Type of
Analysis
85Kr
Xe
CH3T
Analytical
Equipment
Automatic
liquid scintil-
lation counter
with output
printer.
Counting
Period
(Min)
50
Sample
Analytical Size
Procedures (Litre)
Physical 400-
separation by 1000
gas chroma-
tography; dis-
solved in
toluene "cock-
tail" for count-
ing.
Detection
Limit
85Kr = 5x10" 1 2
yCi/mla
Xe = 2xlO~12
pCi/mla
CH3T = 5xlO~12
MCi/mla
The detection limit for a given sample is defined as that radioactivity which equals
the 2-sigma counting error.
Detection limit is defined as that concentration which produces a ±25% counting
deviation at the 95% confidence level.
68
-------
Table 3 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for the Noble Gas and Tritium Surveillance Network
Type of
Radioactivity
Sampling
Location
Death Valley
Jet CA
W \f IB £ \j£\
Beatty, NV
Diablo, NV
Hiko, NV
No. Days Radio-
Sampled activity Units
316.3
342.3
328.3
342.6
342.6
335.7
342.0
356.0
349.0
327.5
327.5
258.8
343.2
357.1
350.2
349.5
356.5
320.7
337.9
335.8
349.9
349.5
349.5
300.5
85Kr
133&
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
85Kr
Xe
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
85Kr
133Xe
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
85Kr
133Xe
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
10"12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10"6 yCi/ml H20
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10"6 yCi/ml H20
10~12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10 ~6 yCi/ml H20
' 10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10 12yCi/ml air
10 12yCi/ml air
10~6 yCi/ml H20
10~12yCi/ml air
10"l2yCi/ml air
Concentrations
Stax CMin CAve
19
12
< 5.0
0.55
3.7
8.7
21
< 2.0
!6
0.97
5.2
13
22
30
5.1
< 0.77
< 6.6
5.2
19
9.2
7.5
0.63
6.3
4.2
12
< 2.0
< 5.0
< 0.22
< 0.56
0.42
12
< 2.0
< 5.0
< 0.22
< 0.49
< 0.50
12
< 2.0
< 5.0
< 0.22
< 0.69
< 0.50
12
< 2.0
< 5.0
< 0.21
< 0.48
< 0.50
15
< 2.2
< 5.0
< 0.33
< 1.4
< 2.6
16
< 2.0
< 5.2
< 0.39
< 2.0
< 3.4
16
< 3.1
< 5.0
< 0.39
< 2.0
< 1.9
16
< 2.1
< 5.1
< 0.30
< 1.7
< 1.2
69
-------
Table 3 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for the Noble Gas and Tritium Surveillance Network
Type of
Radioactivity
Sampling
Location
Las Vegas, NV
NVOO
NTS, NV
Desert Rock
'NTS, NV
BJY
NTS, NV
Gate 700
No . Days
Sampled
314.3
335.1
335.1
354.6
354.6
288.7
335.0
342.1
342.0
357.7
357.7
274.8
358.2
351.3
358.2
357.6
357.6
279.6
323.1
344.2
337.2
327.6
327.6
274.8
Radio-
activity
85Kr
133^
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
85Kr
133Xe
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
85Kr
133Xe
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
85Kr
133Xe
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
Units
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~6 yCi/ml H20
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
i
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~6 yd/ml H20
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~6 yCi/ml H20
10~12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10"6 yCi/ml H20
10~12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
., Cot
CMax
20
15
7.0
1.5
6.8
4.3
21
13
13
1.4
5.0
< 2.7
27
240
17
26
120
21
20
16
8.3
1.5
7.9
7.2
icentratio
StLn
12
< 2.0
< 5.0
< 0.22
< 0.31
< 0.50
13
< 2.0
< 5.0
< 0.22
< 0.50
< 0.50
13
< 2.0
< 5.0
0.35
0.66
< 0.50
13
< 2.0
< 5.0
< 0.23
< 0.59
0.62
ns
Avg
16
< 2.5
< 5.0
< 0.35
< 1.5
< 1.2
16
< 2.5
< 5.3
< 0.42
< 1.9
< 1.2
18
<30
< 6.1
< 5.7
<25
< 4.4
16
< 3.3
< 5.2
< 0.56
< 2.5
< 2.6
70
-------
Table 3 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for the Noble Gas and Tritium Surveillance Network
Type of
Radioactivity
Sampling
Location
NTS, NV
Area 12
Ton op ah, NV
i
No . Days
Sampled
315.3
316.1
322.3
356.7
356.7
300.9
350.8
356.9
349.9
357.4
357.4
1 336.4
Radio-
activity
85Kr
133Xe
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
85Kr
Xe
CH3T
HTO
HTO
HT
Units
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~6 yCi/ml H20
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10"12yCi/ml air
10~12yCi/ml air
10 ~6 yCi/ml H26
10~*2yCi/mi air
10~12yCi/ml air
VsUUl
Slax
21
16
8.7
66
270
24
21
< 2.0
18
0.75
4.7
4.0
.ciil.i.ai.j.u
CMin
12
< 2.0
< 5.0
0.35
3.5
< 0.68
13
< 2.0
< 5.0
< 0.23
'< 0.78
< 0.50
110
16
< 2.3
< 5.1
9.6
40
< 5.8
16
< 2.0
< 5.5
< 0.34
' < 1.6 ;
< 2.1
71
-------
Table 4. 1973 Summary of Background Radiation Doses for the Dosimetry Network
Station
Location
Adaven, NV
Alamo, NV
e»
Ash Meadows, NV
Baker, CA
Barstow, CA
Beatty, NV
Bishop, CA
Blue Eagle Ranch, NV
Blue Jay, NV
Cactus Springs, NV
Caliente, NV
Casey's Ranch, NV
Cedar City, UT
Clark Station, NV
Coyote Summit, NV
Currant, NV
Death Valley Jet., CA
Desert Game Range, NV
Diablo Maint. Sta., NV
Duckwater, NV
Elgin, NV
Ely, NV
Enterprise, UT
Furnace Creek, CA
Geyser Maint. Sta., NV
Goldfield, NV
Groom Lake, NV
Hancock Summit, NV
Hiko, NV
Measurement
Period
1/17/73
1/8/73
1/9/73
1/2/73
1/2/73
1/10/73
1/3/73
1/10/73
1/11/73
1/10/73
1/10/73
1/16/73
1/9/73
1/10/73
1/10/73
1/10/73
1/4/73
1/11/73
1/10/73
1/10/73
1/10/73
1/9/73
4/10/73
1/4/73
1/8/73
1/15/73
1/10/73
1/10/73
1/8/73
- 1/16/74
- 1/7/74
-8/8/73
- 1/14/74
- 1/14/74
- 1/8/74
- 1/16/74
- 1/16/74
- 1/17/74
- 1/7/74
- 1/10/74
- 1/8/74
- 1/16/74
- 1/17/74
- 1/7/74
- 1/16/74
- 1/17/74
- 1/7/74
- 1/9/74
- 1/16/74
- 1/11/74
- 1/15/74
- 1/16/74
- 1/8/74
- 1/14/74
- 1/8/74
- 1/17/74
- 1/7/74
- 1/7/74
Background Dose
Equivalent Rate (mrem/d)
Max. Kin. Avg.
0.51
0.40
0.43
0.37
0.35
0.59
0.47
0.36
0,57
0.30
0.63
0.44
0.45
0.48
0.51
0.46
0.46
0.33
0.61
0.47
0.63
0.50
0.52
0.43
0.48
0.47
0.46
0.60
0.36
0.36
0.12
0.27
0.16
0.14
0.19
0.13
0.16
0.38
<0.10
0.17
0.23
0.22
<0.10
0.28
0.24
<0.10
<0.10
0.37
0.25
0.28
0.31
0.22
<0.10
0.23
0.25
0.14
0.36
<0 . 10
0.46
0.2.9
0.33
0.25
0.27
0.37
0.31
0.25
0.44
<0.21
0.40
0.33
0.32
<0.38
0.40
0.32
<0.31
<0.22
0.47
0.35
0.45
0.38
0.39
<0.26
0.37
0.35
0.30
0.49
<0.26
Annual
Adjusted
Background
Dose
Equivalent
(mrero/a)
170
110
120
90
100
140
110
90
160
< 80
150
120
120
<140
140
120
<110
< 80
170
130
160
140
140
< 90
: 140
130
110
180
< 90
72
-------
Table 4. 1973 Summary of Background Radiation Doses for the Dosimetry Network
Station
Location
Hot Creek Ranch, NV
Independence, CA
Indian Springs, NV
Kirkeby Ranch, NV
Koynes, NV
Las Vegas (McCarren) , NV
Las Vegas (Placak), NV
Las Vegas (USDI), NV
Lathrop Wells, NV .
Lone Pine, CA
Lida, NV
Lund, NV
Manhattan, NV
Mesquite, NV
Nevada Farms, NV
Nuclear Eng. Co., NV
Nyala, NV
Olancha, CA
Pahrump, NV
Pine Creek Ranch, NV
Pioche, NV ^
Queen City Summit, NV
Reed Ranch, NV
Rid gee rest, CA
Round Mountain, NV
St. George, UT
Scotty's Jet., NV
Selhach Ranch, NV
Background Dose
Measurement Equivalent Rate (mrem/d)
Period Max. Min. Avg.
1/11/73 -
1/3/73 -
1/11/73 -
1/12/73 -
1/10/73 -
11/14/72
1/12/73 -
1/12/73 -
1/9/73 -
1/3/73 -
1/15/73 -
1/11/73 -
1/16/73 -
1/8/73 -
1/10/73 -
1/10/73 -
1/16/73 -
1/3/73 -
1/8/73 -
1/17/73 -
1/9/73 -
1/10/73 -
1/10/73 -
1/3/73 -
1/16/73 -
1/8/73 -
1/17/74
1/16/74
1/7/74
1/14/74
1/9/74
- 1/14/74
1/14/74
1/14/74
1/9/74
1/16/74
1/7/74
1/16/74
1/10/74
1/15/74
1/7/74
1/9/74
1/8/74
1/15/74
1/10/74
1/16/74
1/10/74
1/7/74
1/7/74
1/15/74
1/9/74
1/17/74
1/15/73 - 1/7/74
1/9/73 -
1/9/74
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
36
38
43
45
47
39
0.35
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
49
46
39
46
38
46
42
50
71
36
36
35
44
41
62
44
33
42
,45
0.46
0.
48
0.
0.
<0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
23
14
10
26
26
16
15
16
28
18
25
23
23
16
30
18
24
23
12
36
21
34
30
10
27
0.19
0.23
0.21
0.
0.
<0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
31
28
24
33
35
25
23
27
36
29
33
30
36
29
40
43
32
29
24
40
34
46
37
0.24
0.37
0.29
0.36
0.36
Annual
Adjusted
Background
Dose
Equivalent
(mrem/a)
110
100
< 90
120
130
90
80
100
130
110
120
110
130
110
150
160
120
110
90
150
120
170
140
90
140
110
130
130
73
-------
Table 4. 1973 Summary of Background Radiation Doses for the Dosimetry Network
Station
Location
Measurement
Period
Background Dose
Equivalent Rate (mrem/d)
Max. Min. Avg.
Annual
Adj us ted
Background
Dose
Equivalent
(mrem/a)
Sherri's Bar, NV 1/8/73 - 1/7/74
Shoshone, CA 1/2/73 - 1/17/74
Springdale, NV 1/10/73 - 1/10/74
Spring Meadows, NV 1/9/73 - 1/10/74
Sunnyside, NV 1/11/73 - 1/16/74
Tempiute, NV 1/10/73 - 1/9/74
Tenneco, NV 8/8/73 - 1/10/74
Tonopah (Airport), NV 1/17/73 - 1/8/74
Tonopah Test Range, NV 1/17/73 - 1/8/74
Twin Springs Ranch, NV 1/11/73 - 1/10/74
Valley View Ranch, NV3 1/8/73 - 1/15/74
Warm Springs, NV 1/11/73 - 1/17/74
Young's Ranch, NV 1/16/73 - 1/9/74
0.39 0.10 0.26
0.49 0.26 0.36
0.54 0.33 0.41
0.40 <0.10 <0.27
0.45 0.29 0.37
0.50 0.18 0.35
0.42 0.31 0.35
0.55 0.34 0.40
0.49 0.29 0.36
0.51 0.27 0.4i
0.41 0.18 0.27
0.57 0.31 0.43
0.35 0.24 0.30
90
130
150
<100
140
130
130
150
130
150
100
160
110
Station deleted in August 1973
3Same location as Warm Springs Ranch reported in 1972 report.
74
-------
Table 5 Anomalous TLD Readings in 1973
Personnel TLD's
Personnel
Location
Indian Springs, NV
Desert Game Range, NV
Measurement Period
Issue Date Collection Date
8/6/73
3/9/73
9/10/73
10/23/73
9/11/73
4/9/73
10/23/73
1/18/74
TLD Readings
(mrem)
2,400
16
14,000
240
Station TLD's
Desert Game Range, NV
St. George, UT
Casey's Ranch, NV
Groom Lake, NV
Tempiute, NV
Death Valley Jet, CA
Furnace Creek, CA
•
Independence, CA
9/11/73
2/27/73
6/12/73
9/4/73
4/30/73
9/14/73
9/14/73
2/28/73
10/15/73
4/11/73
7/11/73
10/1/73
6/12/73
10/25/73
10/25/73
4/12/73
-0.3"
9.7
9.0
4.6
22
5.9
2.9
17
-1.2*
19
9.1
6.0
11
7.7
-6.1a
8.8
-0.5"
41a
86a
0.5a
170a
-5.6a
3.0
593
9/18/73
10/24/73
8.6
2.5'
9.4
Anomalous values
Note: Values with a minus sign indicate that the total exposure on the TLD was less
than that which would be expected from a combination of the internal TLD
background and transit time.
75
-------
Table 6 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Milk Surveillance Network
No. Type of
Radioactivity Cone.
Sampling
Location
Bishop, CA
Sierra Farms
Hinkley, CA
Bill Nelson Dairy
JOlancha, CA :
Hunter Ranch
Alamo, NV
Williams Dairy
Austin, NV
Young's Ranch
Sample of
Tyj>ea Samples
11 10
4
4
12 10
4
4
13 6
3
3
12 10
4
4
13 9
4
4
9
Radio-
activity
*37Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
!37Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
137Cs
89Sr
90Sr
137Cs
89Sr
90Sr
3H
J-W (JU-L/ '"i
CMax CMin
10 <10
< 3.0 < 2,0
2.9 < 1.2
<100 <10
< 2.0 < 1.9
7.5 < 1.0
1 <100 <1Q
< 2.0 < 1.8
< 5.5 < 1.0
< 10 < 10
< 2.0 < 2.0
< 1.5 < 1.1
< 10 <10
< 2.0 < 2.0
3.9 2.0
1000 470
Avg
<10
< 2.3
< 1.9
<19
< 2.0
< 2.8
<40
< 1.9
< 2.7
<10
< 2.0
< 1.3
<10
< 2.0
2.7
670
76
-------
Table 6 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Milk Surveillance Network
No. Type of
, Radioactivity Cone.
Sampling
Location
Currant, NV
Blue Eagle Ranch
Currant, NV
Manzonie Ranch
Hiko, NV
Schofield Dairy
Indian Springs, NV
Indian Springs Ranch
Las Vegas, NV
LDS Dairy Farms
Sample of Radio-
Type3 Samples activity
13 8 137Cs
3 89Sr
•j Sir
13 10 137Cs
4 89Sr
4 90Sr
12 10 137Cs
4 89Sr
4 90Sr
10 3H
13 3 137Cs
2 89Sr
2. Sir
12 10 137Cs
4 89Sr
4 9°Sr
10 3H
JL
°Max
<100
< 3.0
2.8
<100
< 3.0
2.1
<100
< 2.0
< 1.3
420
< 10
< 2.0
< 1.0
< 10
< 2.0
1.1
360
u yui/nu.
C C
Min Avg
<10 <34
< 2.0 < 2.3
2.3 2.5
<10 <19
< 2.0 < 2.3
< 1.3 < 1.6
<10 <19
< 2.0 < 2.0
< 1.1 < 1.2
<230 <280
<10 <10
< 1.0 < 1.5
< 1.0 < 1.0
<10 <10
< 1.0 < 1.3
< 0.90 < 1.0
<230 <260
77
-------
Table 6 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Milk Surveillance Network
No. Type of
,Radioactivity Cone.
Sampling
Location
Lathrop Wells, NV
William J. Kirker
Lida, NV
Lida Livestock Company '
Logandale, NV
Vegas Valley Dairy
Lund, NV
McKenzie Dairy
Mesquite, NV
Hughes Bros. Dairy
Sample of
Typea Samples
13 10
4
4
13 7
3
3
12 10
4
4
12 10
4
4
10
12 10
4
4
10
Radio-
activity
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
137Cs
89Sr
90Sr
3H
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
3H
j-u M^J-/ uu.
°Max CMin
< 10 <10
< 2.0 < 1.0
1.8 < 1.1
<100 <10
< 2.0 < 2.0
< 1.2 < 1.0
< 10 <10
< 2.0 < 1.0
2.5 < 1.0
10 <10
< 3.0 < 2.0
6.1 1.7
<380 <230
13 <10
< 2.0 < 2.0
1.9 < 1.1
420 <230
Avg
<10
< 1.8
< 1.4
<23
< 2.0
< 1.1
<10
< 1.8
< 1.5
<10
< 2.3
2.9
<270
<11
< 2.0
< 1.5
<300
78
-------
Table 6 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Milk Surveillance Network
No. Type of
, Radioactivity Cone.
Sampling
Location
Currant, NV
Blue Eagle Ranch
Currant, NV
Manzonie Ranch
Hiko, NV
Schofield Dairy
Indian Springs, NV
Indian Springs Ranch
Las Vegas, NV
LDS Dairy Farms
Sample of Radio-
Type3 Samples activity
13 8 137Cs
3 Sr
3 9^Sr
13 10 137Cs
4 89Sr
4 90Sr
12 10 137Cs
4 89Sr
4 90Sr
10 3H
' 13 3 137Cs
2 89Sr
2 9^Sr
12 10 137Cs
A Sr
4 9°Sr
10 3H
j.
CMax
<100
< 3.0
2.8
<100
< 3.0
2.1
<100
< 2.0
< 1.3
420
< 10
< 2.0
< 1.0
< 10
< 2.0
1.1
360
u 'yui/mi
Min Avg
<10 <34
< 2.0 < 2.3
2.3 2.5
<10 <19
< 2.0 < 2.3
< 1.3 < 1.6
<10 <19
< 2.0 < 2.0
< 1.1 < 1.2
<230 <280
<10 <10
< 1.0 < 1.5
< 1.0 < 1.0
<10 <10
< 1.0 < 1.3
< 0.90 < 1.0
<230 <260
77
-------
Table 6 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Milk Surveillance Network
No. Type of
,Radioactivity Cone.
Sampling Sample
Location Typea
Lathrop Wells, NV 13
William J. Kirker
Lida, NV 13
Lida Livestock Company '
Logandale, NV 12
Vegas Valley Dairy
Lund, NV 12
McKenzie Dairy
Mesquite, NV 12
Hughes Bros. Dairy
of
Samples
10
4
4
7
3
3 -
10
4
4
10
4
4
10
10
4
4
10
Radio-
activity
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
137C8
89Sr
9°Sr
137Cs
89Sr
90Sr
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
3H
*37Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
3H
J.U M^J-/ uu.
C C
Max Min
< 10 <10
< 2.0 < 1.0
1.8 < 1.1
<100 <10
< 2.0 < 2.0
< 1.2 < 1.0
< 10 <10
< 2.0 < 1.0
2.5 < 1.0
10 <10
< 3.0 < 2.0
6.1 1.7
<380 <230
13 <10
< 2.0 < 2.0
1.9 < 1.1
420 <230
AVR
<10
< 1.8
< 1.4
<23
< 2.0
< 1.1
<10
< 1.8
< 1.5
<10
< 2.3
2.9
<270
<11
< 2.0
< 1.5
<300
78
-------
Table 6 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Milk Surveillance Network
No. Type of
Radioactivity Cone.
• Sampling
Location
Moapa, NV
Searles Dairy
•
Nyala, NV
Sharp's Ranch
Pah rump, NV
Owens Ranch
Panaca, NV
Kenneth Lee Ranch
Sample of
Type3 SampJ.es
12 10
4
4
13 10
4
4
10
13 10
4
4
13 7
2
2
Radio-
activity
'37Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
3H
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
137Cg
89Sr
90Sr
J.W
CMax
< 10
< 2.0
2.4
<100
< 2.0
5.0
530
<100
< 2.0
1. 7
<100
< 2.0
2.5
[JV^J./ 111J-
CMin
<10
< 2.0
1.3
<10
< 1.0
< 0.90
<220
< 10
< 1.0
< 0.90
< 10
< 2.0
< 1.1
c
Avg
<10
< 2.0
2.0
<91
< 1.8
< 2.3
<300
< 19
< 1.5
< 1.2
< 23
< 2.0
< 1.8
Round Mt., NV
Russell Berg Ranch
13
137
Cs
< 10
< 10
< 10
79
-------
Table 6 1973 Summary of. Analytical Results for the Milk Surveillance Network
No. • Type of
Radioactivity Cone.
Sampling
Location
Round Mt., NV
Karl Berg Ranch
Shoshone, NV
Kirkeby Ranch
Springdale, NV
Seidentopf Ranch
Cedar City, UT
Western Gold Dairy
St. George, UT
R. Cox Dairy
all = Pasteurized Milk
12 = Raw Milk from Grade
13 = Raw Milk from family
Sample of
Typea Samples
13 7
3
3
13 7
3
3
13 10
4
4
12 10
4
4
12 10
4
4
A Producer (s)
f COW (s )
Radio-
activity
!37Cs
89Sr
90Sr
. 137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
137Cs
89Sr
90Sr
137Cs
89Sr
90Sr
137Cs
89Sr
9°Sr
J.VJ
CMax
< 10
< 3.0
3.8
< 10
< 3.0
2.6
< 10
< 2.0
1.4
< 10
< 2.0
5.1
< 10
< 2.0
< 1.5
IJVjJ./ UU.
CMin
< 10
< 2.0
2.6
< 10
< 2.0
< 1.3
< 10
< 1.0
< 1.1
< 10
< 2.0
< 1.4
< 10
< 1.0
< 0.90
Avg
< 10
< 2.3
3.2
< 10
< 2.3
< 2.07
< 10
< 1.8
< 1.3
< 10
< 2.0
< 2.6
< 10
< 1.8
< 1.2
80
-------
Table 7 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Water Surveillance Network -
Surface Water Samples
Sampling
Location
Furnace Creek, CA
Pond
Olancha, CA
Haiwee Reservoir
Alamo, 'NV .
Pahranagat Lake
Sample Collection Type of
Type3 Date Radioactivity
21 03/01/73 89Sr
9°Sr
226Ra
238PU
239pu
23^
23 Sjj
238u
21 03/01/73 89Sr
9<>sr
226Ra
238pu
239pu
"•m
23 By
23 By
21 03/01/73 89Sr
9°Sr '
226Ra
238pu
239pu
23 kv
235u
238u
Concentration
(10-9 vCi/ml)
< 2.0
< 1.0
0.16
< 0.021
< 0.017
2.6
0.024
1.2
< 2.0
< 1.0
0.19
< 0.028
< 0.012
4.4
0.097
3.7
< 1.0
< 0.90
0.92
< 0.031
< 0.046
14
0.19
5.2
% of
Cone.
Guide
< 0.20
< 1.0
1.6
< 0.010
< 0.010
0.026
< 0.010
< 0.010
< 0.20
< 1.0
1.9
< 0.010
< 0.010
0.044
< 0.010
0.028
•
< 0.10
< 0.90
9.2
< 0.010
< 0.010
0.14
< 0.010
0.040
81
-------
Table 7 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Water Surveillance Network
Surface Water Samples
~ ^ ..„ % of
Sampling
Location
Ash Meadows, NV
Ash Meadows Fond
Diablo, NV
Reed Ranch
Ely, NV
ConrLns Lake
Sample Collection Type of
Type3 Date Radioactivity (10~9jjCi/ml)
21 04/10/73 89Sr
9°Sr
226Ra
238pu
239pu
23 ^u
23 5u
23 8u
21 04/09/73 89Sr
90Sr
226Ra
238pu
239pu
23^
235u
238U .
21 04/16/73 89Sr
90Sr
226Ra
238Pu
. 239Pu
23 ^U
23 BU
238U
< 2.0
< 1.0
0.71
< 0.039
< 0.016
25
0.30
8.8
< 3.0
4.6
0.20
< 0.036
< 0.021
19
0.092
2.4
< 2.0
< 0.70
0.14
< 0.61
< 0.74
12
0.24
4.3
Cone.
Guide
< 0.20
< 1.0
7.1
< 0.010
< 0.010
0.25
< 0.010
0.068
< 0.25
< 3.0
2.0
< 0.010
< 0.010
0.19
< 0.010
0.018
< 0.20
< 0.70
1.4
< 0.036
< 0.044
0.12
< 0.010
0.033
82
-------
Table 7 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Water Surveillance Network -
Surface Water Samples
Sampling Sample
Location Type^
Hiko, NV 27
Crystal Springs
Las Vegas, NV 21
Lake Head Vegas Wash
Las Vegas, NV 21
Tule Springs Pond
Collection Type of
Date Radioactivity
03/01/73 89Sr
9°Sr
226Ra
238pu
239pu
23I*U
23 5u
238U
02/12/73 89Sr
90Sr
226Ra
238PU
239pu
23Uu
235u
238u
02/09/73 89Sr
9°Sr
226Ra
238pu
239pu
231*u
23 5u
238U
Concentration
(10"9vCi/ml)
< 1.0
< 0.80
0.64
< 0.018
< 0.016
5.7
0.043
1.9
< 2.0
3.1
0.28
< 0.018
< 0.020
7.1
0.17
4.5
< 2.0
< 1.1
0.34
< 0.02
0.063
7.1
0.080
2.2
% of
Cone.
Guide
< 0.10
< 0.80
6.4
< 0.010
< 0.010
0.057
< 0.010
0.015
< 0.20
3.1
2.8
< 0.010
< 0.010
0.071
< 0.010
0.035
< 0.20
< 1.1
3.4
< 0.010
< 0.010
0.071
< 0.010
0.017
83
-------
Table 7 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Water Surveillance Network -
Surface Water Samples
Sampling Sample
Location Type3
Lida, NV 21
Pond at Storage Tank
Springdale, NV 21
Pond
Sunnyside, NV 21
Adam McGill Reservoir
Collection Type of
Date Radioactivity
02/05/73 89Sr
90Sr
226Ra
238Pu
239pu
23«*u
235u
238u
04/10/73 89Sr
9°Sr
226Ra
238pu
239pu
23 ^u
23%
238u
04/17/73 89Sr
90Sr
226Ra
238Pu
239Pu
23
-------
Table 7 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the Water Surveillance Network
Surface Water Samples
Sampling Sample Collection Type of Concentration Con<, ^
Location Typea Date Radioactivity (10 9yCi/ml) Guide
Fallini's Pond 90
Warm Springs, NV 21 04/11/73 89Sr < 2.0 < 0.20
Sr < 1.1 < 1.0
226Ra 0.29 2.9
238Pu < 0.031 < 0.010
239Pu 0.047 < 0.010
23t*U 24 0.24
235U 0.33 < 0.010
238U 9.4 0.072
a
21 = Pond, Lake, Reservoir, Stock Tank, Stock Pond
27 = Spring
85
-------
Table 8 1973 Summary of Tritium Results for the Water Surveillance Network
3H Concentration
Sampling
Location
Death Valley Jet, CA
Lila's Cafe
Ash Meadows, NV
Ash Meadows Lodge
Blue Diamond, NV
Post Office
Cactus Springs, NV
Mobil Ser. Sta.
Las Vegas, NV
Lab II, NERC
Las Vegas, NV
Lake Mead Vegas Wash
Las Vegas, NV
Tule Springs
Sample
Type*
23
23
23
27
24
21
23
Las Vegas, NV 23
Craig Rch. Golf Course
Las Vegas, NV
Municipal Golf Course
Las Vegas, NV
Vegas Estates .
Las Vegas, NV
L.V. Water Dist. Well
Las Vegas, NV
Desert Game Range
Mt. Charleston, NV
Kyle Cnyn. Fire Sta.
Scotty's Jet, NV
Chevron Ser. Sta.
23
23
23
28
23
27
No. of
Samples
9
4
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
23 10
a21 * Pond, Lake, Reservoir, Stock Tank, Stock
23 - Well
24 » Multiple Supply - Mixed (A water sample
IJ. V> W V
io-s
CMax
480
<250
<380
290
1100
1300
<270
<260
<260
260
<260
460
350
390
Pond
consisti
»*~ en wj_ a u.
1 uCi/ml
CMin
<230
<240
<240
<230
700
640
<230
<230
<230
<230
<230
<230
<230
LWi.1
Avg
<300
<250
<260
<250
860
890
<250
<250
<250
<250
<250
<270
<260
<220 <280
ng of mixed or
% of
Cone.
Guide
<0.030
<0.025
<0.026
<0.025
0.086
0.089
<0.025
<0.025
<0.025
<0.025
<0.025
<0.027
<0.026
<0.028
multiple
sources of water, such as well and spring.)
27 = Spring
86
-------
Table 9 Plutonium-239 in Air Samples - Near the NTS
Location
Furnace Creek, CA
Death Valley Jet.
CA
Beatty, NV
Diablo, NV
Hiko, NV
Indian Springs, NV
Lathrop Wells, NV
Pahrump, NV
Scotty's Jet., NV
Date
2/20/71
10/30/72
2/20/71
3/31/71
10/24/72
10/28/72
12/13/72
2/3/71
2/25/71
3/1/71
3/17/71
10/28/71
4/25/72
4/20/71
5/4/71
5/26/71
3/26/71
4/25/71
6/26/71
9/25/71
3/13/71
4/25/72
3/18/70
9/25/70
3/18/71
10/24/72
5/17/71
10/30/72
2/19/70
3/31/71
10/24/72
10/29/72
12/13/72
Downwind 239Pu Upwind 239Pu F Ratio3
Concentration Concentration Downwind
(10-15yCi/ml) Date (10-15uCi/ml) vs Unwind
<0.05
<0.04
0.20
0.12
0.10
<0.07
<0.03
0.09
0.08
<0.06
0.19
<0.08
0.088
0.20
0.20
0.40
0.20
0.20
0.20
<0.70
0.10
0.087
<0.06
0.17
0.20
0.04
0.30
<0.12
0.15
0.20
0.068
0.15
<0.059
4/20/71
12/7/72
5/2/71
5/3/71
10/2/72
12/6/72
12/7/72
6/28/70
4/20/71
5/2/71
5/20/71
10/16/71
4/16/72
2/20/71
3/1/71
3/31/71
9/25/70
2/20/71
3/18/71
10/28/71
4/20/71
4/16/72
4/20/71
6/26/71
9/25/71
10/2/72
4/20/71
10/2/72
4/20/71
5/3/71
5/27/71
12/4/72
12/6/72
12/7/72
0.20
0.051
0.20
0.20
<0.065
<0.048
0.055
0.40
0.17
0.20
0.12
0.20
0.075
<0.06
<0.07
0.30
<0.07
<0.07
0.09
<0.06
0.15
0.19
0.20
0.30
0.20
0.042
<0.10
<0.044
0.17
0.20
0.20
<0.036
0.056
<0.042
No difference
No difference
Significant
difference
No difference
Significant
difference
Probable
difference
No difference
No difference
No difference
87
-------
Table 9 Plutonium-239 in Air Samples - Near the NTS
Location
Date
Downwind 239Pu
Concentration
(10-15yCi/ml)
Date
Upwind 239Pu
Concentration
(10-15yCi/ml)
F Ratioa
Downwind
vs Upwind
Warm Springs, NV
3/12/71
3/26/71
4/25/71
0.14
<0.08
0.13
2/19/70
3/18/70
3/31/70
2/3/71
2/20/71
3/17/71
3/31/71
<0.09
0.23
0.10
<0.60
<0.60
0.20
0.12
No difference
Computation made on natural logarithm of the Pu-239 concentration.
88
-------
Table 10 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the NTS Monthly Long-Term
Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling
Location
NTS
Well 20A-2
NTS
Well 8
NTS
Well J-12
No . No .
Samples Samples
Collected Analyzed3
4 1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
3
12 5
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
1
9 4
3
3
3
3
3
2
3
Type of
Radio-
activity
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238PU
239Pu
234U
23 5u
23 8u
226Ra
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
234D
235U
23 By
226 Ra
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
23 ity
23 5y
23 8y
IVdU-LUdl
r
max
7.7
<1.1
<0.034
<0.028
3.1
0.040
0.70
0.33
<9.3
<2.0
<1.1
<0.061
<0.020
0.47
<0.010
0.20
0.16
<8.9
<2.0
<1.1
<0.04
<0.021
0.99
0.016
0.22
-LO-VXLy I
pCi/ml
Cmin
7.7
<1.0
<0.030
<0 . 014
2.9
0.036
0.70
<0.13
<5.1
<1.0
<0.90
<0.021
<0.010
0.01
<0.004
0.090
0.16
<6.4
<1.0
<0.9
<0.02
<0.010
0.94
0.013
0.10
-•UUC.
avg
7.7
<1.1
<0.032
<0.021
3.0
0.038
0.70
<0.20
<7.1
<1.5
<1.0
<0.014
<0.016
0.34
<0.007
0.013
0.16
<7.3
<1.3
<1.0
<0.027
<0.017
0.96
0.015
0.16
% of
Cone.,
Guide
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.05
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.04
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
89
-------
Table 10 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the NTS Monthly Lonp-Term
Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling
Location
NTS
Well U3CN-5
NTS
Well A
NTS
Well C
No. No. Type of
Samples Samples Radio-
Collected Analyzed3 activity
7 5
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
5
12 5
5
5
4
4
4
4
4
8
12 5
7
7
4
4
4
4
4
9
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
23ltu
235U
23 8U
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238PU
239pu
23£tu
23 5U
23 Sy
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
234U
23 5U
238U
226Ra
ixdui-Lwen- u -i- v x uy o unu *
10~9 yCi/ml
C C C
max min avg
<8.2
<2.0
<1.2
<0.030
<0.020
4.6
0.042
1.3
2.6
<10.5
<2.0
<1.20
<0.040
<0.040
5.7
0.081
1.7
2.4
115.2
<5.0
<5.0
<0.048
<0.020
8.6
0.10
2.3
1.8
<6.7
<2.0
<1.0
<0.020
<0.020
2.8
0.015
0.73
0.87
<5.7
<1.0
<1.00
<0.020
<0.020
4.8
0.033
1.4
0.01
80.0
<1.0
<0.90
<0.020
<0.010
4.2
0.050
1.1
0.20
<7.2
<2.0
<1.1
<0.025
<0.020
3.7
0.029
1.0
2.0
<7.4
<1.6
<1.1
<0.031
<0.029
5.2
0.054
1.5
0.46
97.3
<1.7
<1.6
<0.036
<0.018
7.2
0.08
1.9
1.3
% of
Cone.
Guideb
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0,01
<0.01
<0.01
0.5
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0 . 01
0.12
<0.01
<0.01
<0.03
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.5
90
-------
Table 10 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for the NTS Monthly Long-Term
Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling
Location
NTS
Well 5C
NTS
Army Well No. 1
•
Beatty, NV
Well HS/48-ldd
No. No.
Samples Samples
Collected Analyzed3
12 5
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
12 6
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
6
9 3
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
7
Type of
Radio--
activity
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
23 4U
235n
23 By
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
23 fu
23 %
238u
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
23 kv
23 5u
238u
226Ra
Kxtuo-oa<
io-9
max
<12.80
<2.0
<1.1
<0.049
<0.062
4.7
0.10
2.4
0.52
<8.2
<2.0
<1.1
<0.047
<0.020
2.5
0.031
0.88
0.97
<8.9
<2.0
<1.1
<0.044
<0.024 •
7.9
0.076'
1.7
1.4
.It-LV-LLy
yCi/ml
C .
min
<6.7
<1.0
<0.90
<0.020
<0.020
3.5
.0.080
.1.5
• 0.30
<3.8
<1.0
<0.9
<0.020
<0.010
0.81
0.014
0.64
0.37
<7.0
<1.0
<1.0
<0.030
<0.010
0.81
0.035
1.1
0.17
L.OHC.
C
avg
<8.3
<1.8
<0.98
<0.032
<0.029
4.2
0.095
2.0
0.38
<6.9
<1.5
<1.0
<0.032
<0.016
1.9
0.025
0.77
0.72
<8.0
<1.3
<1.1
<0.037
<0.017
5.2
0.054
1.4
0.46
% of
Cone.
Guideb
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.10
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.18
<0.01
<0.04
<0.4
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.15
= Some samples are still to be analyzed for particular nuclides, especially 3H.
= All on-NTS percentages are for radiation workers. All of NTS percentages are for
an individual in an uncontrolled area.
91
-------
Table 11 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for
NTS Semi-Annual Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling Sample
Location Date Type3
Well UE 19G-S 7/3 23
NTS
Well UE 15d 1/18 23
NTS
Well UE 15d 7/5 23
NTS '
•
Well 2 1/23 23
NTS
•
Type of
Radio- Radioactivity Cone.
activity 10~9yCi/ml
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
231fu
2350
238U
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238PU
'239Pu
23^
235U
238U
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238PU
239pu
234U
235U
238U
226Ra
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
234U
235U
238U
<7.7
<2.0
<1.2
<0.040
<0.022
8.0
0.060
1.6
0.72
<7.7
<1.0
<1.0
<0.020
<0.020
4.4
<0.02
1.3
1.1
<6.7
<2.0
<1.1
<0.030
<0.012
4.7
0.051
1.2
2.0
<6.1
<1.0
<0.90
<0.020
<0.020
1.5
<0.020
0.42
% of Cone.
Guideb
<0.01
<0.01
<0.012
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.18
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.28
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.50
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.2
92
-------
Table 11 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for
NTS Semi-Annual Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling
Location
Well 2
NTS
Well C-l
NTS
Well C-l
NTS
Well UE 5c
NTS
Well UE 5c
NTS
Type of
Sample Radio- Radioactivity Cone.
Date Type3 activity 10~9uCi/ml
7/5 23 3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
23^
235u
238u
1/19 23 3H
89Sr
90Sr
238Pu
239pu
23«fu
235u
238u
226Ra
7/2 23 3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239PU
23^
235u
238u
226Ra
1/18 23 3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238PU
239pu
234u
235u
2380
7/2 23 3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
<8.2
<2.0
<1.2
<0.045
<0.047
1.8
0.013
0.40
96.0
<2.0
<1.0
<0.030
<0.020
8.1
0.048
2.4
2.0
102.0
<1.0
<1.1
<0.047
<0.026
5.6
0.055
1.5
0.79
<8.9
<2.0
<1.0
<0.020
<0.020
3.1
0.059
1.7
8.9
<2.0
1.5
<0.051
<0.013
% of Cone.
Guideb
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.01
0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.50
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.20
<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
93
-------
Table 11 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for
NTS Semi-Annual Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling Sample
Location Date Typea
Well UE 5 c (continued)
NTS
Well 5B 1/17 23
NTS
Well 5B 7/2 23
NTS
Watertown No. 3 1/18 23
NTS ; '
Watertown No. 3 7/6 23
NTS
Type of
Radio- Radioactivity Cone.
activity 10~9yCi/ml
234u
235u
238n
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
234u
235n
238u
226Ra
3H
'89Sr
:9oSr
238pu
239pu
234u
235u
238u
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
23^
235u
238n
226Ra
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
234n
235u
238u
1.6
0.075
1.5
<6.4
<2.0
<1.0
<0.022
<0.020
2.7
0.044
: 2.1
0 . 81
<8.0
<2.0
<1.5
<0.031
<0.028
1.9
0.046
1.8
<8.9
<2.0
<1.0
-------
Table 11 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for
NTS Semi-Annual Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling Sample
Location Date Type3
Crystal Pool 1/30 27
Ash Meadows, NV
Crystal Pool 7/11 27
Ash Meadows, NV
Well 18S/51E-7DB 1/30 23
Ash Meadows, NV •
.
•
'
Well 17S/50E-14CAC 1/29 23
Ash Meadows, NV
Well 17S/50E-14CAC 7/11 23
Ash Meadows , NV
Type of
Radio-
activity
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
?3I+U
235U
238U
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238Pu
239pu
23ttu
235n
238jj
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238PU
239PU
23I|U
235U
238u
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
23"tu
235U
238u
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
23^
235D
238U
Radioactivity Cone.
10~9pCi/ml
<5.7
<1.0
<0.80
<0.020
<0.030
13.8
0.20
5.7
0.18
<7.0
<1.0
<0.90
<0.083
<0.038
13.0
0.14
5.7
0.28
<6.1
<1.0
<0.90
<0.020
<0.020
2.6
0.040
1.0
<7.3
<1.0
<0.90
<0.020
<0.020
2.4
0.038
1.1
<8.2
<1.0
<1.0
<0.038
<0.022
1.9
0.033
• 0.75
% of Cone.
Guideb
<0.01
<0.03
<0.3
<0.01
<0.01
<0.05
<0.01
<0.01
0.60
<0.01
<0.03
<0.3
-------
Table 11 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for
NTS Semi-Annual Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling Sample
Location Date Typea
Fairbanks Springs 1/29 27
Ash Meadows, NV
Fairbanks Springs 7/11 27
Ash Meadows, NV
City Supply 1/31 23
Beatty, NV
City Supply 7/10 23
Beatty, NV
Nuclear Engineer- 1/25 23
ing Co.
Beatty, NV
Type of
Radio- Radioactivity Cone.
activity 10~9yCi/ml
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238PU
239pu
234U
235U
238u
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
231fu
235U
238u
3H
89S*
90Sr
238pu
239pu
23^
235U
238u
226Ra
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238Pu
239pu
231+u
235U
238u
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
23<+u
235U
238-y
<7.3
<1.0
<0.90
<0.020
<0.020
2.1
0.045
0.66
NO DATA
<2.0
<1.3
<0.014
<0.010
1.3
0.016
0.40
<4.8
<2.0
<1.0
<0.020
<0.020
10.8
0.14
3.7
0.19
15.0
<1.0
<1.0
<0.044
<0.020
6.7
0.051
1.8
<6.1
<1.0
<1.0
<0.020
<0.020
6.2
0.077
2.1
% of Cone.
Guideb
<0.01
<0.03
<0.3
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.07
<0.4
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.07
<0.3
<0.01
<0.01
0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.63
<0.01
<0.03
<0.3
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
96
-------
Table 11 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for
NTS Semi-Annual Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling Sample
Location Date Type3
Nuclear Engineer- 7/10 23
ing Co.
Beatty, NV
USAF No. 1 1/24 23
Indian Springs ,
NV
USAF No. 1 7/12 23
Indian Springs,
NV
'
Sewer Co. Inc. 1/24 23
Well No. 1
Indian Springs, NV
Sewer Co. Inc. 7/12 23
Well No. 1
Indian Springs. NV
Type of
Radio- Radioactivity Cone.
activity 10~9yCi/ml
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239PU
23^
235U
238U
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239PU
2 3^TT
2 3 5rr
238U
226Ra
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
23l(U
235U
238u
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238pu
239pu
2 3 4yj
2. 3 STJ
238n
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
13.7
<1.0
<0.040
<0.014
5.7
0.064
1.9
0.32
<6.4
<1.0
<1.0
<0.030
<0.020
4.7
0.027
0.76
0.52
27.2
<1.0
<1.0
<0.049
<0.018
3.09
0.027
0.44
<5.4
<1.0
<1.0
<0.030
<0.020
3.6
0.030
0.73
<7.7
<1.0
<1.1
% of Cone.
Guideb
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
1.1
<0.01
<0.03
<0.3
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
1.7
<0.01
<0.03
<0.3
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.03
<0.3
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.3
<0.01
<0.03
<0.4
97
-------
Table 11 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for
NTS Semi-Annual Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling Sample
Location Date Type3
Sewer Co. Inc. (continued)
Well No. 1
Indian Springs, NV
City Supply 1/24 23
Lathrop Wells ,
NV
City Supply 7/11 23
Lathrop Wells, '
NV •
•
. •'• .
"
Shoshone Spring '1/26 27
Shoshone, CA
Shoshone Spring 7/13 27
Shoshone, CA
Type of
Radio-
activity
238Pu
239pu
23^
235JJ
238jj
226Ra
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238Pu
239Pu
234u
235jj
238u
3H
89Sr
90Sr
238pu
239pu
2 34-tj
2 3 SIT
. 23 By
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238PU
239PU
23itjj
235n
238u
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
238PU
239pu
23^
235U
238U
226Ra
Radioactivity Cone.
10~9yCi/ml
<0.045
<0.048
2.8
0.019
0.56
: 0.42
' <6>1
<1.0
<1.0
<0.030
<0.020
0.91
0.015
0.39
<7.7
<1.0
<1.0
: <0.038
<0.018
0.80
<0.01
; 0.31
<5.4
<3.0
<0.90
<0.020
<0.020
4.1
0.061
1.3
<7.7
<1.0
<1.1
<0.035
<0.019
3.0
0.039
0.95
0.75
% of Gone.
Guideb
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
1.4
<0.01
<0.03
<0.3
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.03
<0.3
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.01
<0.1
<0.3
0.01
0.01
< .01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.03
<0.4
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
2.5
98
-------
Table 11 1973 Summary of Analytical Results for
NTS Semi-Annual Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Type of
Sampling Sample Radio- Radioactivity Cone. % of Cone.
Location Date Typea activity 10~9pCi/ml Guideb
Goss Springs 1/31 27 3H <6.1 <0.01
Springdale, NV 89Sr <1.4 <0.05
90Sr <0.95 <0.3
238Pu <0.020 <0.01
239Pu <0.020 <0.01
8.0 <0.01
.0.085 <0.01
1.7 <0.01
Goss Springs 7/10 27 3H ; <6.7 <0.01
Springdale, NV - 89Sr <1.0 <0.03
90Sr <1.0 <0.3
238Pu <0.029 <0.01
239Pu
-------
Table 12 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for Off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Depth Type of
Sampling
Location
Rulison, CO
Lee L. Hayward Ranch
Rulison, CO
Glen Schwab Ranch
Grand Valley, CO
Albert Gardner Ranch
Grand Valley, CO
City Water
Grand Valley, CO
300 Yds. N.W. of G.Z.
Anvil Points, CO
Bernklau Ranch
Grand Valley, CO
Battlement Creek
Grand Valley, CO
CER Water Well
Rulison, CO
Potter Ranch
Baxterville, MS
City Water
Baxterville, MS
Lower Little Creek
Tatum Salt Dome, MS
HT-2C
Date
5/20
5/20
5/19
5/19
5/20
5/19
5/20
5/20
5/19
3/28
3/28
3/25
Sample Metres Radio- Radioactivity Cone. % of Cone.
Typea (Feet)b activity 10~9yCi/ml Guide
PROJECT RULISON
23 3H
226Ra
23 3H
23 3H
226Ra
27 3H
27 3H
27 3H
22 3H
23 13 3H
(42.7)
27 3H
226Ra
PROJECT DRIBBLE
23 3H
22 3H
23 108 3H
(355) 89Sr
90Sr
<240
0.15
670
420
0.14
<240
740
320
500
800
540
0.15
<240
<240
<240
<3.0
<1.0
<0.01
0.50
0.022
0.014
0.47
<0.01
0.025
0.01
0.017
0.027
0.018
0.50
-------
Table 12 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for Off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Depth Type of
Sampling
Location
Tatum Salt Dome, MS
HT-2M
Tatum Salt Dome, MS
HT-4
Tatum Salt Dome, MS
HT-5
Date
3/25
3/27
3/27
3/27
3/27
3/27
3/27
3/27
3/27
3/27
10/2
10/2
10/2
10/2
10/2
10/2
10/2
10/2
3/26
3/26
Sample Metres
Type3 (Feet)b
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
31
(100)
183
(600)
335
(1100)
488
(1600)
640
(2100)
716
(2350)
716
(2350)
716
(2350)
762
(2500)
31
(100)
183
(600)
335
(1100)
488
(1600)
640
(2100)
716
(2350)
762
(2500)
122
(400)
183
(600)
Radio- Radioactivity Cone
activity 10~9uCi/ml
3H
3H
%
3H
3H
3H
3H
89Sr
9°Sr
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
<230
<230
<230
17,000
8,600
28,000
80,000
<5.0
1.5
54,000
350
900
9,000
42,000
42,000
38,000
35,000
35,000
<240
<240
% of Cone.
Guide
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.57
0.29
0.93
2.7
<0.17
0.50
1.8
0.01
0.03
0.3
1.4
1.4
1.3
1.2
1.2
<0.01
<0.01
101
-------
Table 12 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for Off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Depth Type of
Sampling
Location
Tatum Salt Dome, MS
E-7
Baxterville, MS
Half Moon Creek
Half Moon Creek
Overflow
Baxterville, MS •
T. Speights Residence
Baxterville, MS
R. L. Anderson
Residence
Baxterville, MS
M. Lowe Residence
Baxterville, MS
R. Ready Residence
Baxterville, MS
W. Daniels, Jr. :
Residence
Lumber ton, MS
City Water Well No. 2
Purvis, MS
City Water
Columbia, MS
Sample Metres
Date Typea (Feet)b
3/26
3/26
3/26
3/28
3/28
3/28
3/28
3/28
3/29
3/29
3/29
23 282
(924)
22
22
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
Radio- Radioactivity Cone. % of Cone.
activity 10~9yCi/ml Guide
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H
3H .
3H
3H
<240
<240
270
<240
<240
<240
<240
<240
<240
<240
<240
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
City Water Well
No. 64B
Baxterville, MS
Pond West of G.Z.
3/26 21
400
0.013
102
-------
Table 12 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for Off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Depth Type of
Sampling
Location Date
Blue Jay, NV 4/12
Highway Maintenance
Station
Warm Springs, NV 4/11
Hot Creek Ranch
Blue Jay, NV 4/11
Six Mile Well
Site C, NV 4/12
HTH-2
Frenchman, NV 8/22
Frenchman Station
Frenchman, NV° 11/29
HS-1
Frenchman, NV 8/22
H-3
Frenchman, NVC 11/29
H-3
Frenchman, NVd 11/29/72
Flowing Well No. 2
Frenchman, NV 8/22
Flowing Well No. 2
Sample Metres Radio- Radioactivity Cone. % of Cone.
Type3 (Feet)b activity 10~9yCi/ml Guide
FAULTLESS EVENT
23 3H
27 3H
23 3H
23 183 3H
(602)
PROJECT SHOAL
23 3H
226Ra
23
23 114 3H
(375) 226Ra
23
23 89Sr '
9°Sr
225Ra
23 3H
89Sr
90Sr
<250 <0.01
<250 <0.01
<250 <0.01
<250 <0.01
<240 <0.01
0.25 0.83
350 0.01
6.2 21
<2.0 <0.07
<1.1 <0.4
<220 <0.01
0.28 0.93
280 <0.01
<3.0 <0.1
<1.2 <0.4
Frenchman, NV
Hunt's Station
11/29 23
103
-------
Table 12 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for Off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Depth Type of
Sampling
Location
Gobernador, NM
Arnold Ranch
Gob e rnado r , NM
Arnold Ranch
Jicarilla Apache
Reservation, NM
Well 30.3.32.343
Jicarilla Apache
Reservation, NM
Well 30.3.32.343
Gobernador, NM
Lower Burrow Canyon
Gobernador, NM
Lower Burrow Canyon
Gobernador, NM
Bixler Ranch
Gobernador, NM
Bixler Ranch
Blanco, NM
San Juan River
Blanco, NM
San Juan River
Gobernador, NM
Cave Springs
Gobernador, NM
Cave Springs
Gobernador, NM
Date
7/25
11/6
5/2
11/7
7/25
11/8
5/3
11/8
4/30
11/8
7/24
11/6
4/30
Sample Metres Radio- Radioactivity Cone.
Typea (Feet)b activity 10-9yCi/ml
PROJECT
27
27
23
23
23
23
. 23
23
22
22
27
27
27
GASBUGGY
3H
226Ra
3H
>H
3H
3H
226Ra
3H
3H
226Ra
3H
3H
3H
3H
226Ra
3H
3H
<240
0.38
<250
<240
'
<250
<240
0.23
<250
<240
0.37
<250
400
290
<240
0.57
<250
<240
% of Cone.
Guide
<0.01
1.3
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
<0.01
0.77
<0.01
<0.01
1.2
<0.01
0.013
<0.01
<0.01
1.9
<0.01
<0.01
Bubbling Springs
104
-------
Table 12 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for Off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Depth Type of
Sampling
Location
Gobernador, NM
Bubbling Springs
Dulce, NM
City Water
Dulce, NM
City Water
Dulce, NM
La Jara Lake
Dulce, NM
La Jara Lake
Dulce, NM
La Jara Lake
Gobernador, NM
EPNG Well 10-36
Gobernador, NM
EPNG Well 10-36
Gobernador, NM
EPNG Well 10-36
Malaga, NM
USGS Well No. 1
Malaga, NM
USGS Well No. 4
Sample Metres Radio- Radioactivity Cone,
Date Typea (Feet)b activity 10~9yCi/ml
11/7 27 3H
5/1 21 3H
11/8 21 3H
9/13/72 21 89Sr
9°Sr
3H
4/30 21 3H
89Sr
9°Sr
11/8 21 3H
9/13/72 23 89Sr
9°Sr
3H
5/2 23 1097 3H
(3600) 89Sr
90Sr
226Ra
11/7 23 1097 3H
(3600)
PROJECT GNOME
4/26 23 161 3H
(528) 89Sr
9°Sr
226Ra
4/26 23 148 3H
(486) 89Sr
9°Sr
226Ra
*250
480
<250
•<10
<11
740
<240
<5.0
5.6
260
<3.0
<1.0
<210
<240
<3.0
<1.2
0.37
<250
<250
<3.0
<1.0
4.5
1,200,000
<1,600
10,000
8.0
% of Cone.
Guide
<0.01
0.02
<0.01
<0.30
<3.7
- 0.025
<0.01
<0.2
1.9
<0.01
<0.1
<0.3
<0.0l
<0.01
<0.1
<0.4
1.2
<0.01
<0.01
<0.1
<0.3
15
40
<53
3,300
27
105
-------
Table 12 1973 Summary of Analytical Results
for Off-NTS Long-Term Hydrological Monitoring Program
Sampling
Location
Malaga, NM
USGS Well No. 8
Malaga, NM
PHS Well No. 6
Malaga, NM
PHS Well No. 8
Malaga, NM
PHS Well No. 9
Malaga, NM
PHS Well No. 10
Malaga, NM
Pecos River
Pumping Station
Loving, NM
City Well No. 2
Carlsbad, NM
City Well No. 7
Depth Type of
Sample Metres, Radio- Radioactivity Cone.
Date Typea (Feet) activity 10~9pCi/ml
4/26 23 144 3H
(473) 89Sr
9°Sr
226Ra
137Cs
4/26 23 3H
4/25 23 3H
226Ra
4/26 23 3H
4/26 23 3H
226Ra
4/25 23 3H
4/25 23 3H
226Ra
4/25 23 3H
226Ra
1,400,000
<2,500
15,000
1.9
190
400
<250
0.52
<250
<250
<2.0
0.65
<250
<250
0.73
<250
1.0
% of Cone.
Guide
47
<83
5,000
6.3
1.0
0.013
<0.01
1.7
<0..01
<0.01
<0.07
<0.3
2.2
<0.01
<0.01
2.4
<0.01
3.3
21 - Pond, Lake, Reservoir, Stock Tank, Stock Pond
22 - Stream, River, Creek
23 - Well
24 - Multiple Supply - Mixed (A water sample consisting of mixed or multiple sources
of water, such as well and spring.)
27 - Spring
If depth is not shown, water was collected at surface. All depths are below surface
level.
Collected, but not analyzed as of 12/31/73.
Not reported in 0513 report of 1972.
106
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DISTRIBUTION
1-25 National Environmental Research Center, Las Vegas, NV
26 Mahlon E. Gates, Manager, NV/AEC, Las Vegas, NV
27 Robert H. Thalgott, NV/AEC, Las Vegas, NV
28 David G. Jackson, NV/AEC, Las Vegas, NV
29 - 30 Bruce W. Church, NV/AEC, Las Vegas, NV
31 - 32 Roger Ray, NV/AEC, Las Vegas, NV
33 Chief, NOB/DNA, NV/AEC, Las Vegas, NV
34 Robert R. Loux, NV/AEC, Las Vegas, NV
35 Arthur J. Whitman, NV/AEC, Las Vegas, NV
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Las Vegas, NV 89114
43 - 46 Martin B. Biles, DOS, USAEC, Washington, D.C.
47 Major General Ernest Graves, AGMMA, USAEC, Washington, D. C.
48 Edward Fleming, DAT, USAEC, Washington, D. C.
49 Gordon Facer, MA (weapons facilities only) USAEC, Washington, D.C.
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52 AEC/HQ Library, Attn: Charles Sherman, USAEC, Washington, D.C.
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El Paso, TX 79978
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Development, EPA, Washington, D.C.
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Programs, EPA, Washington, D.C.
57 Dr. William A. Mills, Director, Division of Criteria & Standards,
ORP, EPA, Washington, D.C.
-------
58 Ernest D. Harward, Acting Director, Division of Technology
Assessment, ORP, EPA, Washington, D. C.
59 Bernd Kahn, Chief, Radiochemistry & Nuclear Engineering, NERC,
EPA, Cincinnati, OH
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Washington, D.C.
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Washington, D.C.
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Washington, D.C.
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78 Jerome E. Dummer, LASL, Los Alamos, NM
79 Arden E. Bicker, REECo, Mercury, NV
80 Savino W. Cavender, REECo, Mercury, NV
81 Carter D. Broyles, Sandia Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM
82 George Tucker, Sandia Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM
83 Albert E. Doles, Eberline Instrument Co., Santa Fe, NM
84 Robert H. Wilson, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
85 Richard S. Davidson, Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH
86 J. P. Corley, Battelle Memorial Institute, Richland, WA
-------
87 Frank E. Abbott, USAEC, Golden, CO
88 John M. Ward, President, Desert Research Institute, University of
Nevada, Reno
89 AEC/HQ Library, Attn: Charles Sherman, USAEC, Washington, D. C.
90 - 91 Technical Information Center, Oak Ridge, TN (for public availability)
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