675 



Question 2 : I understand that the DOE unilaterally decided to terminate a 



joint DOE/EPA project at the University of Rhode Island designed 

 to study the effects of Middlesex, N.J., contaminated soils on a 

 functioning ecosystem. In the absence of this experiment, what 

 other studies can DOE cite that better define the path of radio- 

 active materials in marine foodchains? 



It Is my understanding that the EPA planned to use the results 

 of the experiment to help develop a methodology for evaluating 

 ocean dumping permit applications. If the EPA has determined 

 that this study Is pertinent for an adequate base to develop 

 ocean dumping methodology, how can the DOE determine that In the 

 study's absence, there Is adequate environmental Information on 

 which to evaluate whether ocean dumping is a viable alternative 

 to land disposal? 



Answer ; DOE has been funding studies for several years to examine the 

 feasibility of ocean disposal for low activity waste from the 

 Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Project (FUSRAP). The 

 focus of this activity has been the waste material at Middlesex, 

 New Jersey, due to Its proximity to ocean ports. DOE's activities 

 have been closely coordinated with ocean disposal work sponsored 

 by EPA in order that the results of our studies could be utilized 

 as additional input to EPA modeling and hazard assessment 

 activities. 



DOE'S studies have been specifically directed toward identifying 

 practical solutions for FUSRAP waste disposal, rather than toward 

 performing generic RSD. With the passage of amendments to the 

 Maritime Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act In P.L. 97-424, 

 a 2-year moratorium was placed on consideration of ocean disposal 

 permits. All permits will now require specific congressional 

 approval of a Radioactive Material Disposal Impact Assessment. 

 Approval of the Impact assessment will be followed by passage In 



