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Title: Aerial radiological survey of the area surrounding the Monticello and Elk River Nuclear Power Plants (Monticello and Elk River, Minnesota). Date of survey: May 1972

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/5978177· OSTI ID:5978177

The Aerial Radiological Measuring System (ARMS) was used to survey the area surrounding the Monticello and Elk River Nuclear Stations during May 1972. The survey measured terrestrial gamma-ray exposure rate and spectral data. A high-sensitivity detection system collected gamma-ray spectral and gross count data. The data were then processed to construct a map of a 625-square-mile area showing the spatial distribution of gamma-ray exposure rates 3 feet above the ground. Exposure rates and isotopes identified are consistent with that related to normal terrestrial background radiation. The first survey of the Elk River area was conducted in September 1968; however, the Elk River reactor has been shut down since 1968. The first Monticello survey conducted in August 1970 also covers the Elk River reactor area. The two reactors are approximately ten miles apart. Comparison of the 1970 and 1972 Monticello survey data shows no measurable change in the terrestrial gamma exposure rate in the intervening years, due to the Monticello Reactor operations or the shutdown and dismantling of the Elk River Reactor.

Research Organization:
EG and G, Inc., Las Vegas, NV (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
EY-76-C-08-1183
OSTI ID:
5978177
Report Number(s):
EGG-1183-1659; TRN: 79-019493
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English