5 
or propagation of DNA recombinants 
outside the laboratory. Deliberate 
release of organisms into the 
environment is prohibited. In my 
view, the stipulated physical and 
biological containment ensures 
that this research will proceed 
with a high degree of safety and 
precaution. But I recognize the 
legitimate concern of those urging 
that an environmental impact 
assessment be done. In view of this 
concern and ensuing public debate. 
I have reviewed the appropriateness 
of such an assessment and have 
directed that one be \indertaken. 
The purpose of this assess- 
ment will be to review the environ- 
mental effects, if any, of research 
that may be conducted under the 
guidelines. The assessment will 
provide further opportunity for all 
concerned to address the potential 
benefits and hazards of this most 
important research activity. I 
expect a draft of the environmental 
impact statement should be completed 
by September 1 for comment by the 
scientific community, Federal and 
State agencies, and general public. 
6. Despite all the foregoing, the Ft. Detrick research 
is to be conducted by defendants without their either determining 
the inapplicability of NEPA (as required by the Department of 
Health, Education and Welfare, General Administration Manual 
((GAM)) Part 30), or preparing an Environmental Impact Statement 
(as required by NEPA and the Council on Environmental Quality 
Guidelines, 38 Fed. Reg. 20550, 40 C.F.R. Part 1500). 
7. More startling, the Ft. Detrick experiments are by 
the very guidelines of HEW classed as "prohibited", for the 
[Appendix C — 49] 
