Flora and Fauna Brookhaven National Laboratory has a wildlife management program to protect and manage flora and fauna and their habitats. The Laboratory’s wildlife management strategy is based on an understanding of the resources onsite, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, protecting and monitoring the ecosystem, research, and communication. Monitoring to determine whether current or historical activities have impacted wildlife is part of this program. In 1999, deer and fish sampling results were consistent with previous years. Deer residing on the BNL site were found to contain concentrations of cesium-137 higher than those observed in offsite deer. Fish from the Peconic River collected at the BNL boundary continue to show a slightly elevated radionuclide content compared to control samples. Radionuclide levels in fish continue to decrease compared to historical values. Although there was no sampling for local farm grown produce in 1999, historical analyses of farm produce reported in BNL Site Environmental Reports over the past ten years has indicated that no Laboratory- generated radionuclides have been detected. 6 CHAPTER 1999 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT BROOKHAVEN NATIONAL LABORATORY
Transcript
6-1 1999 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
Flora and Fauna
Brookhaven National Laboratory has a wildlife management program to protect and
manage flora and fauna and their habitats. The Laboratory’s wildlife management
strategy is based on an understanding of the resources onsite, ensuring compliance
with applicable regulations, protecting and monitoring the ecosystem, research, and
communication. Monitoring to determine whether current or historical activities have
impacted wildlife is part of this program. In 1999, deer and fish sampling results were
consistent with previous years. Deer residing on the BNL site were found to contain
concentrations of cesium-137 higher than those observed in offsite deer. Fish from the
Peconic River collected at the BNL boundary continue to show a slightly elevated
radionuclide content compared to control samples. Radionuclide levels in fish continue
to decrease compared to historical values. Although there was no sampling for local
farm grown produce in 1999, historical analyses of farm produce reported in BNL Site
Environmental Reports over the past ten years has indicated that no Laboratory-
generated radionuclides have been detected.
6CHAPTER1999 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
B R O O K H A V E N N A T I O N A L L A B O R A T O R Y
6-21999 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
Table 6-1. New York State Threatened, Endangered,and Species of Special Concern.
Notes:Information based on 6 NYCRR 182, 6 NYCRR 193, and BNL survey data.No federally listed threatened or endangered species are known
to occur at BNL.E=endangeredT=threatenedSC=species of special concernR=rareV=exploitably vulnerable
6.1 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
The purpose of the wildlife managementprogram at BNL is to promote stewardship ofthe natural resources found at the Laboratory,as well as to integrate natural resource protec-tion with the Laboratory’s mission. In 1998BNL developed a Wildlife Management Planthat describes the program strategy, elements,and planned activities. This plan was updated in1999 to incorporate comments from the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) andthe New York State Department of Environmen-tal Conservation (NYSDEC) (Naidu 1999). Theplan and related natural resources informationabout the Laboratory can be found at theEnvironmental Services Division website at<http://www.esh.bnl.gov/wildlife/>. Theprogram elements and some of the associatedactivities are summarized below.
6.1.1 IDENTIFICATION AND MAPPING OF NATURALRESOURCES
An understanding of the environmentalbaseline is the starting point for wildlife man-agement planning. The Central Pine BarrensCommission conducted a natural resourcesinventory of the BNL site based on data col-lected from 1970 to 1990. This mapping processhas identified environmentally sensitive areasand significant wildlife communities. BNL is inthe process of updating this inventory.
As noted in Chapter 1, a wide variety ofvegetation, birds, reptiles, amphibians, andmammals reside onsite at BNL. There is onlyone New York State endangered species thatinhabits BNL property: the tiger salamander(Ambystoma tigrinum) (see Figure 6-1). Two NewYork State threatened species have been identi-fied: the banded sunfish (Enneacanthus obesus)(see Figure 6-2) and the stiff goldenrod (Solidagorigida) plant. In addition, several species thatinhabit the BNL site, or visit during migration,are listed as “rare,” “species of special concern,”or ‘exploitably vulnerable’ (see Table 6-1).
6.1.2 HABITAT PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT
Activities to eliminate or minimize negativeimpacts on sensitive or critical species are eitherincorporated into BNL procedures or intospecific program or project plans. Environmen-tal restoration efforts remove pollutant sourcesthat could contaminate habitats. Access tocritical habitats is restricted. A map of tigersalamander breeding locations is maintained
and reviewed when new projects are proposedto ensure that the projects do not negativelyaffect the breeding areas. (This map is “Confi-dential” and limited in its distribution in orderto protect the tiger salamander from beingexploited.) In some cases, habitats are enhancedto improve survival or increase populations.Routine activities (e.g., road maintenance) thatare not expected to impact habitats are permit-ted to proceed.
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CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
Figure 6-1. Tiger Salamander (Ambystomatigrinum), a New York State listed endangeredspecies. The salamander was releasedimmediately after the photograph was taken.
Efforts to protect the tiger salamanderinclude determining when adult salamandersare migrating toward breeding locations, whenmetamorphosis has been completed, and whenjuveniles are migrating after metamorphosis.During these times, construction and/or
tion in the sunfish habitat is not disturbed, andevaluating all river remediation efforts forpotential impacts on these habitats. The bandedsunfish is shown in Figure 6-2.
BNL’s Wildlife Management Plan also callsfor habitat enhancement. In 1999, all readily
available data were compiled to establishBNL’s bird list. A total of 216 species havebeen identified at BNL since 1948, of whichat least 85 are known to nest onsite. Some ofthese nesting birds have shown declines intheir populations nationwide over the past 30years. In 2000, the Laboratory plans toestablish permanent bird survey routesthrough various habitats, allowing for consis-tent monitoring of songbird populations.Bluebirds have been identified as one of thedeclining species of migratory birds in North
Figure 6-2. Banded Sunfish (Enneacanthus obesus), aNew York State “special concern” species. This livespecimen was returned to the water body immediatelyafter the photograph was taken. (Scale shown in thispicture is in centimeters.)
maintenance activities near tiger sala-mander habitats are required to bereviewed by BNL environmental protec-tion staff, and every effort is made tominimize impacts. Water quality testingis conducted as part of the routinemonitoring of water basins. These dataare used to assess the quality of water prior tothe breeding cycle. In cooperation withNYSDEC, limited habitat surveys were con-ducted in 1999 during the tiger salamanderbreeding season. In 2000, more comprehensivesurveys of known and suspected tiger sala-mander habitats will be conducted. The resultsof these surveys will help determine the lengthof the breeding period and provide the informa-tion needed to determine a window for con-struction activities in and around the breedingareas. The information may also identifychanges in site use that are needed and possibleactivities that could be affecting this species.The map of the breeding areas will be updatedperiodically to include any new observations.
Banded sunfish protection efforts includeensuring that adequate flow of the river ismaintained within areas currently identified assunfish habitat, ensuring that existing vegeta-
America. This decline is due to loss of habitatand nest site competition by the Europeanstarling. In 2000, BNL plans to install 20 to 40bluebird boxes around open grassland areas ofthe site to enhance the bluebird population.Once the boxes are installed, they will bemonitored two to three times during thebreeding season to determine use and nestingsuccess.
6.1.3 POPULATION MANAGEMENT
BNL also manages other species popula-tions as necessary to ensure that they aresustained and to control invasive species. For
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CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
example, the Laboratory monitors populationsof “species of interest,” such as the wild turkey.The onsite population of wild turkeys is esti-mated to be between 60 and 80 birds (seeFigure 6-3). The wild turkeys onsite are appar-ently doing well, as approximately one third ofthe estimated population is composed ofjuvenile birds. Updated population reports areperiodically sent to NYSDEC to assist with theirpopulation estimates. The population willcontinue to be monitored to determine repro-ductive success.
BNL is currently updating information onthe onsite deer population. Since there are nonatural predators onsite and hunting is notpermitted at BNL, there are no significantpressures on the population to migrate beyondtheir typical home range of approximately onemile. A 1992 study indicated that the populationof deer onsite exceeded 700, or approximately100 per square mile (Thomlinson 1993). Nor-mally a population density of 10 to 30 persquare mile is considered an optimum sustain-able level for a given area. Overpopulation canaffect both animal and human health (e.g., deerticks transmit Lyme disease), decrease speciesdiversity such as song birds (due to selectivegrazing and destruction of habitat), and canalso result in increased property damage andtraffic accidents as animals forage into devel-oped areas for food. Reduction of propertydamage due to deer/vehicle collisions is oneaspect considered in planning deer populationmanagement. In 1999, there were four deer/vehicle collisions reported. This was down from12 reported collisions in 1997, after propertyadjacent to the lab was cleared for development,
and 6 reported collisions in 1998. Options formanaging the deer population are beingevaluated, and BNL will work with state regula-tors and the community if active management(such as culling the herd) is deemed necessary.
6.1.4 COMPLIANCE ASSURANCE AND POTENTIAL IMPACTASSESSMENT
The National Environmental Policy Act(NEPA) review process at BNL is one of thekeys to ensuring that environmental impacts ofa proposed action are adequately evaluated andaddressed. BNL will continue to use NEPA, orNEPA-like values under the ComprehensiveEnvironmental Response, Compensation andLiability Act program, as the process for identi-fying potential environmental impacts associ-ated with site activities (especially physicalalterations). As appropriate, stakeholders suchas the EPA, NYSDEC, Suffolk County Depart-ment of Health Services (SCDHS), the NatureConservancy, the Town of Brookhaven, theCommunity Advisory Council, and local envi-ronmental advocacy groups are involved inreviewing projects which have potential environ-mental impacts.
6.2 MONITORING ACTIVITIES
6.2.1 DEER SAMPLING
Deer in New York State typically grow tolarge sizes, with average weights of males atapproximately 150 pounds; females are slightlyless at about 100 pounds. However, deer onLong Island tend to be much smaller in size,with an average weight of less than 80 pounds.The available meat on local deer ranges from 20to 40 pounds per deer.
In 1999, as in recent years, an offsite deersampling program was again conducted incooperation with the NYSDEC Wildlife Branch.NYSDEC samples provide data on deer movingbeyond BNL boundaries where they can belegally hunted. This program also providescontrol data on deer living in locations that aredistant from BNL. The total number of samplesobtained near the BNL site was again verylimited in 1999, as in past years, due to a lowresponse rate from hunters approached forsamples at state checkpoints. In all, eight deersamples were obtained onsite and eight weregathered from offsite locations.
BNL has been monitoring radionuclidelevels in deer onsite since 1992. Onsite samplesFigure 6-3. Wild Turkeys are commonly seen at BNL.
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CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
Table 6-2. Radiological Analysis of Deer Tissue (1999).
Collect K-40 Cs-137Location Date Tissue (pCi/g,wet) (pCi/g, wet)
BNLYale Road across from first entrance to garage 01/04/99 Flesh 5.78 ± 1.35 7.47 ± 1.49Mobile Trailer Park/5-8 01/18/99 Liver 2.80 ± 0.51 2.22 ± 0.40Mobile Trailer Park/5-8 01/18/99 Flesh 2.87 ± 0.65 8.11 ± 1.44Mobile Trailer Park/5-8* 01/18/99 Flesh 2.64 ± 0.47 9.69 ± 1.66Southeast of Child Development Center 02/18/99 Tumor 1.41 ± 0.37 0.35 ± 0.08Southeast of Child Development Center 02/18/99 Flesh 2.17 ± 0.37 0.72 ± 0.12Main gate-South Bound Lane 03/19/99 Flesh 5.42 ± 1.19 2.90 ± 0.58Main gate-South Bound Lane* 03/19/99 Flesh 2.41 ± 0.42 0.26 ± 0.05Main gate-South Bound Lane* 03/19/99 Flesh 2.05 ± 0.35 0.94 ± 0.16Main gate-South Bound Lane* 03/19/99 Flesh 2.43 ± 0.95 0.29 ± 0.10Main gate-South Bound Lane 03/19/99 Liver 2.69 ± 0.46 1.22 ± 0.21Intersection of Railroad/Cornell Ave., East of 701 03/20/99 Liver 2.33 ± 0.56 0.05 ± 0.02Intersection of Railroad/Cornell Ave., East of 701 03/20/99 Flesh 3.25 ± 0.55 0.17 ± 0.03West side of Bldg. 815 04/19/99 Flesh 3.20 ± 0.55 0.08 ± 0.02Bldg.1005 inside of RHIC Ring 04/27/99 Flesh 2.88 ± 0.48 0.75 ± 0.13Bldg.1005 inside of RHIC Ring 04/27/99 Liver 1.79 ± 0.33 0.19 ± 0.04Intersection of Princeton/Southgate Rd. 06/11/99 Flesh 2.52 ± 0.42 0.30 ± 0.05Intersection of Princeton/Southgate Rd. 06/11/99 Liver 1.19 ± 0.22 0.10 ± 0.02
OffsiteMashomack, Shelter Island 01/06/99 Flesh 2.37 ± 0.42 0.85 ± 0.151/3 Mile N. of Rt. 25, Ridge Rd. 01/06/99 Flesh 3.8 ± 0.64 0.61 ± 0.15Breslin Property (Wm. Floyd) 01/08/99 Flesh 2.15 ± 0.37 3.55 ± 0.61Noyak, Town of Southhampton 01/18/99 Flesh 2.19 ± 0.39 NDRt. 25, 100 yds. west of main entranceto Brookhaven Shooting Range 02/16/99 Flesh 2.22 ± 0.38 2.34 ± 0.39
Ridge Road, 200 feet North of School 03/19/99 Flesh 2.82 ± 0.47 0.26 ± 0.05Rt. 25, 100 yds west of main entrance 03/23/99 Flesh 2.97 ± 0.52 2.91 ± 0.50Wm. Floyd Pkwy, 1/4 mile South of Main gate 10/22/99 Flesh 2.24 ± 0.41 3.52 ± 0.60Wm. Floyd Pkwy, 1/4 mile South of Main gate* 10/22/99 Flesh 2.07 ± 0.38 3.55 ± 0.59Wm. Floyd Pkwy, 1/4 mile South of Main gate 10/22/99 Liver 2.22 ± 0.25 0.78 ± 0.13
Notes:All values shown with a 95% confidence interval.All summary statistics include duplicate analysis results.ND = Not Detected.*Duplicate analysis, a second sample from the same animal.
were collected primarily from deer killed inautomotive incidents. Samples were analyzed forgamma-emitting radionuclides; the results areshown in Table 6-2. It was previously establishedthat deer taken on the BNL site contain concen-trations of cesium-137 (half-life = 30 years) atlevels above those taken from offsite. This ismost likely the result of deer grazing on vegeta-tion growing in soils where elevated cesium-137levels are known to exist. Cesium-137 in thesesoils can be transferred to aboveground plantmatter via root uptake, where it then becomesavailable to browsing animals. Remediation of
contaminated soil areas is being addressed aspart of the site environmental restorationprogram. All data taken since 1992 are pre-sented in Table 6-3 and was used to show thedistribution of cesium-137 levels in deer versusdistance from the Lab. The cesium-137 concen-tration in deer meat samples taken within onemile of the Laboratory boundary is approxi-mately the same as in samples taken onsite.Cesium-137 concentrations decrease sharplybeyond one mile from the site (see Figure 6-4).This indicates that deer feeding on Laboratoryproperty have the potential to migrate offsite
6-61999 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
continued on next page
Table 6-3. Radiological Analysis of Deer Tissue (Historical Data 1992 - 1999).
Notes:All values except 1992 data shown with a 95% confidence interval.All summary statistics include duplicate analysis results.ND = Not Detected*Duplicate analysis, a second sample from the same animal.
and also supports the estimates of the deerhome range being one square mile.
The maximum onsite concentration ofcesium-137 detected in all hind meat sampleswas 9.69 pCi/g (0.36 Bq/g) wet weight (theconcentration prior to drying for analysis). Thearithmetic average concentration of all samplesof hind meat in which cesium-137 was detectedwas 2.88 pCi/g (0.11 Bq/g). This may becompared with the maximum and average hindmeat cesium-137 concentrations recorded inoffsite samples of 3.55 and 1.95 pCi/g (0.13 and0.07 Bq/g), respectively. Maximum and averagecesium-137 concentrations in liver samples fromdeer collected onsite show a similar pattern ofelevation. Figure 6-5 shows the ranges of
cesium-137 concentrations in hind samples fromonsite deer collected since 1996.
The potential radiological dose resultingfrom deer meat consumption is discussed inChapter 8. The New York State Department ofHealth (NYSDOH) has formally assessed thepotential public health risk associated with theelevated cesium-137 levels in onsite deer anddetermined that neither hunting restrictionsnor formal health advisories are warranted(NYSDOH 1999). Their report may be accessedat <http://www.esh.bnl.gov/wildlife/deer_issues.htm/>.
With respect to the health of the onsitedeer population, the International AtomicEnergy Agency (IAEA) has concluded that
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CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
3.5
0 0.1 - 1 1.1 - 5 5.1 - 10 >10
Distance from BNL in Miles
Cs-
137
(Ave
rage
pC
i/g,
wet
)
32 samples8 samples
5 samples
3 samples 6 samples
chronic dose rates of 100 millirad per day (1mGy/d), to even the most radiosensitive speciesin terrestrial ecosystems, are unlikely to causedetrimental effects in animal populations (IAEA1992). A deer containing a uniform distributionof cesium-137 at the highest levels observed todate would carry a total body burden of about0.2 µCi (0.007 MBq). Under these conditions, ananimal would receive an absorbed dose ofapproximately 3 millirad per day (0.03 mGy/d),which is only 3 percent of the threshold evalu-ated by the IAEA. Deer observed and sampledonsite appear to be healthy.
6.2.2 FISH SAMPLINGBNL, in collaboration with the NYSDEC
Fisheries Division, maintains an ongoingprogram for the collection of fish from thePeconic River and surrounding fresh waterbodies. In 1999 various species of fish werecollected from onsite portions of the PeconicRiver, as well as from offsite locations such asDonahue’s Pond and Forge Pond (see Figure 5-8in Chapter 5 for geographic locations). Figure6-6 is a photograph of fish sampling activities.No control locations, such as Carmans River,were sampled in 1999 by BNL. The control
Figure 6-4. Geographical Distribution for Cs-137 in Deer Meatin Relation to BNL Property, 1996-1999.
Figure 6-5. Distribution for Cs-137 Concentration Rangesin Deer Meat From BNL Site Since 1996.
Ranges of Cs-137 Concentrations in Onsite Deer Meat
location sampling data used in this report wasprovided to BNL by SCDHS.
6.2.2.1 RADIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF FISH
Brown bullhead (Ictalurus nebulosus), chainpickerel (Esox niger), largemouth bass(Micropterus salmoides), bluegill (Lepomismacrochirus), pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus),and yellow perch (Perca flavescens) species werecollected in 1999 by BNL and SCDHS forradiological analysis. Gamma spectroscopyanalysis was performed on both BNL andSCDHS samples, and alpha spectroscopyanalysis was performed on SCDHS samples.Specific information regarding the samplingpoint, species collected, and analytical results ispresented in Table 6-4 (gamma data) and Table6-5 (alpha data). All sample results are pre-sented as wet weight concentrations.
Additionally, fish collected by the NYSDECFisheries Division in the spring of 1998 wereanalyzed in 1999 as part of the environmentalrestoration program’s plutonium samplingproject. The fish samples underwent both alphaand gamma spectroscopy. No americium-241,plutonium-238, plutonium-239/240, or uranium-235 were detected in any of the fish collectedfrom the Peconic River. Cesium-137, uranium-233/234 and uranium-238 were detected at lowlevels. Cesium-137 was detected in all sampleswith the highest value detected being 0.70 ± 0.13pCi/g (0.03 ± 0.005 Bq/g). The highest level ofuranium-233/234 detected was in a brownbullhead taken at North Street with a value of0.006 ± 0.002 pCi/g (0.21 ± 0.07 mBq/g).
Table 6-4. Radiological Analysis (Gamma Data) of Fishfrom the Peconic River System and Control Locations(BNL and Suffolk County Data 1999).
K-40 Cs-137Fish/Sample Type (pCi/g, wet) (pCi/g, wet)
Notes:All BNL values shown with a 95% confidence interval.* Suffolk County data (provided without confidence interval information).D=DuplicateND=Not Detected
Figure 6-6. Environmental Sampling of Yellow Perch(Perca flavescens) Using a Gill Net.
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CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
Table 6-5. Radiological Data (Alpha Analysis) of Fish From the PeconicRiver and Control Locations (Data provided by Suffolk CountyDepartment of Health Services 1999).
Species Am-241 U-238 U-234pCi/g, wet pCi/g, wet pCi/g, wet
Notes:All samples were whole fishND=Not DetectedTNR=Test Not Run*Indicates duplicate sample
A uranium-238 value of 0.008 ± 0.002 pCi/g(0.31 mBq/g ± 0.07) was detected in a sample ofbone/viscera from onsite samples. For moredetail on the project results, refer to the Pluto-nium Contamination Characterization and Radio-logical Dose and Risk Assessment Report that wasplaced in the Administrative Record for publicreview in February 2000 (BNL 2000) and can befound in the BNL Research Library and severallocal public libraries.
In general, all 1999 BNL and SCDHS dataagree with the exception of americium-241.Data from SCDHS showed no evidence ofplutonium-238, plutonium-239/240, or ura-nium-235, which was consistent with BNL data.Data did show detection of cesium-137, ura-nium-233/234, and uranium-238, as well as verylow levels of americium-241. Levels of cesium-137 reported by the SCDHS were at levelscomparable to those detected by BNL’s surveil-lance monitoring program. The highest level ofcesium-137 seen in SCDHS onsite data 0.52pCi/g (19 mBq/g) was in a chain pickerel, andis comparable to BNL data for the same area(see Table 6-4). Uranium-233/234 and uranium-238 values were comparable to, or lower than,levels detected by the plutonium study. SCDHSdetected americium-241 at very low levels in thePeconic River fish taken onsite. The levelsdetected were just above the minimum detec-tion limit of 0.001 pCi/g (0.037 mBq/g), withthe highest level of 0.0036 pCi/g (0.13mBq/g)detected in a brown bullhead. Americium-241levels found in brown bullheads are shown inFigure 6-7.
Data for fish are generated from smallsample numbers and each sample may havebeen a composite sample (composed of severalsmall fish) due to weight requirements neededto obtain accurate radiological analysis. Analysesperformed by the SCDHS utilized the wholefish for testing in order to represent the con-sumption of the whole fish by some members ofthe public; analyses performed by BNL weredone separately on the flesh and skin, theviscera and bones, and occasionally the wholefish. Segregating the tissues provides informa-tion regarding the localization of radionuclidesin certain parts of a fish, as different radionu-clides tend to concentrate in different tissuesdue to their specific chemical characteristics.Segregated analysis also allows for more realisticdose calculations since different radionuclidesmay become localized in different discrete
6-11 1999 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
tissues; and, therefore, if the tissue in which aradionuclide concentrates is considered by mostconsumers to be inedible (e.g., bones andviscera), the source of intake can be eliminated.
Concentrations of naturally occurringpotassium-40 (a radionuclide common to soiland vegetation) were observed to be veryconsistent between Peconic River and controllocation fish, validating the comparability of thedata. The only anthropogenic (man-made)radionuclide found in any fish sample, controlor otherwise, was cesium-137.
Some cesium-137 is detectable in theenvironment worldwide as a result of globalfallout from past aboveground nuclear weaponstesting. This is evident when examining theanalytical results of control location fish. In thepast, cesium-137 values up to 0.43 pCi/g (16mBq/g) were found in yellow perch flesh takenfrom Swan Pond. In order to account for thedifferent feeding habits and weights of variousspecies, it is important to compare species withsimilar feeding habits to each other. In generalcesium-137 concentrations in bullheads col-lected near the BNL Sewage Treatment Plantoutfall were elevated in comparison to thecontrol locations. The elevations became lesspronounced with increasing distance from theSewage Treatment Plant outfall (see theDonahue’s Pond and Forge Pond values inTable 6-4).
Though it is clear from discharge recordsand sediment sampling that historical BNLoperations have contributed to anthropogenicradionuclide levels in the Peconic River system,
most of these radionuclides (with the exceptionof tritium) were released between the late 1950’sand early 1970’s. Radionuclides in Peconic Riverfish have been measured since 1974 by theNYSDOH. Both the NYSDOH and BNL dataindicate a continuing decrease in radionuclideconcentrations in all fish species over time(NYSDOH 1996). This is due to a lack of signifi-cant new radioactive discharges and the radioac-tive decay of materials discharged in the past.
6.2.2.2 NONRADIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF FISH ANDSHELLFISH
In 1997, under the Operable Unit (OU) Vremediation program, the BNL environmentalrestoration program conducted sampling andanalysis of fish samples from the Peconic Riverfor metals, pesticides, and PCBs (see the BNLSite Environmental Report for Calendar Year 1997[BNL 1999] for more information). Resultsindicated that the levels found were not consid-ered to have any health impacts on fish orhuman. However, DOE directed that thesampling of fish for pesticides, metals, andPCBs should be incorporated into the annualenvironmental sampling program. This analysiswas conducted in 1999, and the results werecompared to the 1997 data as an extension ofthe 1997 survey. It should be noted that the1997 sampling was performed during the April-May period, while in 1999 sampling was per-formed during the September-Decemberperiod. This makes the comparison moretenuous, as seasonal variations in feeding andenergy consumption by fish can be significant.
Figure 6-7. Am-241 in Individual Brown Bullhead Catfish Samples TakenFrom the BNL Site During 1999.
Am-241 in Brown Bullhead Catfish taken from the BNL site
0
0.001
0.002
0.003
0.004
0.005
0.006
Am
- 241
pC
i/g,
wet
Individual Samples* *
i 95% confidence interval* Duplicate Samples
0.006
0.005
0.004
0.003
0.002
0.001
0
Am
-241
(pC
i/g,
wet
)
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CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
Tabl
e 6-
6. M
etal
s A
naly
sis
of F
ish
and
Shel
lfish
Fro
m t
he P
econ
ic R
iver
and
Con
trol
Loc
atio
ns (
1999
).
Loca
tion
Mat
rixAr
seni
cBa
rium
Cadm
ium
Chro
miu
mCo
pper
Lead
Man
gane
seM
ercu
ryNi
ckel
Sele
nium
Silv
erZi
ncSo
dium
Iron
ppm
(�g
/g)
(wet
wei
ght)
Seaf
ord,
NY
Clam
s (fl
esh)
2.12
0.25
<MDL
0.27
4.71
0.53
10.1
90.
041.
31<M
DL0.
2328
.68
13,4
4238
.8(C
ontro
l)
Seaf
ord,
NY
Clam
s (fl
esh)
2.61
0.23
<MDL
0.23
5.59
0.55
11.9
30.
051.
60<M
DL0.
4436
.89
16,4
8948
.3(C
ontro
l)
Peco
nic
Bay
Clam
s (fl
esh)
1.94
<MDL
0.1
<MDL
1.68
<MDL
3.40
<MDL
0.75
<MDL
0.41
6.00
5,86
911
.8
Flan
ders
Bay
Clam
s (fl
esh)
0.94
0.25
0.12
<MDL
2.09
<MDL
7.85
<MDL
0.45
<MDL
0.61
9.09
5,83
832
.3
Forg
e Po
ndBl
uegi
ll<M
DL2.
21<M
DL<M
DL0.
59<M
DL3.
290.
090.
15<M
DL<M
DL21
.62
770
<MDL
flesh
Dona
hue’s
Pon
dLa
rgem
outh
0.91
0.24
0.12
<MDL
2.05
<MDL
7.54
<MDL
0.42
<MDL
0.20
8.74
5,70
931
.5Ba
ss (
flesh
)
Dona
hue’s
Pon
dPu
mpk
in<M
DL0.
73<M
DL<M
DL0.
62<M
DL1.
020.
150.
10<M
DL<M
DL15
.55
768
<MDL
Seed
(fle
sh)
BNL
Site
:Ch
ain
<MDL
1.62
<MDL
<MDL
1.30
<MDL
2.24
0.10
<MDL
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6-13 1999 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
Table 6-7. Pesticide Analysis of Fish and Shellfish From the Peconic River and Control Locations (1999).
Seaford, NY Seaford, NY Peconic Flanders Forge Donahue’s Donahue’s BNL BNL(Control) (Control) Bay Bay Pond Pond Pond EA to HMn EA to HMn
Notes:See Chapter 5, Figure 5-8 for locations.All values given a qualifer “J,” which indicates that the values were estimated above instrument detection limit but below method detection limit.
Table 6-6 shows the concentration levels ofmetals in fish and shellfish (clams) for 1999.None of the metal concentrations were consid-ered to be capable of impacting the health ofthe consumers of such fish or clams. In compar-ing the metals results between 1997 and 1999for those species that were analyzed during bothperiods, it was found that mercury levels in the1997 onsite samples were higher than thosefound in 1999. This could be the result ofseasonal difference in the sampling (spring vs.summer) and/or significant differences in thesize of fish caught during the different seasons.
Table 6-7 shows the concentration levels ofpesticides in fish for 1999. The levels do notexceed any standards that constitute healthimpacts on the consumers of such fish and,therefore, are not considered harmful. The datafrom 1997 were compared to that observed in1999 for concentration of pesticides in fish. Thecompounds selected for the comparison, DDDand alpha-chlordane, were the pesticides thatwere analyzed in both years. The results indi-cated no significant differences in concentra-tions between the 1997 and 1999 samples.
Table 6-8 shows the concentration levels ofPCBs in fish for 1999. Concentrations found inoffsite fish indicated that the levels were at orbelow the minimum detection limit. However, asignificant reduction in the principal PCBcomponent, AROCLOR 1254, was noted in the1999 samples when compared to the 1997samples. AROCLOR 1254 was the PCB histori-cally used in transformers and other electricalequipment at BNL. At the observed levels, theseconcentrations do not pose any health hazardsto the consumers of fish containing PCBs.
6.2.3 MARINE/ESTUARINE SAMPLING
Annual sampling for clams, sediment, andseawater in the Peconic Bay, Flanders Bay,Indian Point, and Seaford (control location) wascontinued in 1999. Stakeholder concern thatBNL’s discharges have affected the clammingindustry prompted the Laboratory to continuethis sampling program. The NYSDEC MarineFisheries Branch has continued to assist BNL incoordinating the sampling with local baymen.Table 6-9 summarizes the radiological data. Thenaturally-occurring radionuclide potassium-40
ppm (�g/g)(wet weight)
6-141999 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
Table 6-8. PCB Analysis of Fish and Shellfish From the Peconic River and Control Locations (1999).
Seaford, NY Seaford, NY Peconic Flanders Forge Donahue’s Donahue’s BNL BNL(Control) (Control) Bay Bay Pond Pond Pond EA to HMn EA to HMn
Notes:See Chapter 5, Figure 5-8 for locations.All values were accorded a qualifer “J,” indicating that they were estimated values, except as indicated next to the number as (*), which indicates that it is a real number.
continues to be the only radionuclide observedin these samples. Additionally, in 1999, estua-rine vegetation located in the Indian Point areawas sampled. The results also indicated thatpotassium-40 was the only radionuclide ob-served. No BNL-generated radionuclides havebeen detected since sampling began in 1992.
ppm (�g/g)(wet weight)
Table 6-9. Radiological Analysis Results for Shellfish,Aquatic Vegetation, Marine Waters, and Sediment(1999).
Notes:All values shown with a 95% confidence interval.ND=Not Detected*Duplicate sample
6.2.4 VEGETATION SAMPLING
No farm vegetable samples were collectedfrom the farms surrounding BNL for radiologi-cal analysis in 1999. However, analysis of farmproduce data reported in BNL Site Environ-mental Report over the past ten years indicatesonly the presence of naturally-occurring potas-sium-40 at levels that are typical of these typesof samples. No radionuclides attributable toBNL operations have ever been observed.
6.2.5 PECONIC RIVER SEDIMENT SAMPLING
Sampling of the Peconic River sediments forradionuclides was conducted during 1999 aspart of the sampling project reported in section2.6.1.1 of Chapter 2. Although the project wasfocussed on plutonium 238, other radionuclideswere analyzed including americium-241, cesium-137, plutonium-239/240, uranium-233/234,uranium-235, and uranium-238. The plutoniumfindings for the Peconic River are summarizedbelow. For more detailed information on themedia and radionuclides evaluated for thisproject, see the Plutonium Report (BNL 2000),which was placed in the Administrative Recordfor public review in February 2000.
Plutonium found in the environment hastwo potential sources: (1) fallout of plutoniumreleased during atmospheric testing of nuclearweapons, and (2) reactor operations. Atmo-spheric fallout has been distributed globally andhas been measured on Long Island in both soilsand sediment. The potential source of reactor-related plutonium and related radionuclideswould be the Brookhaven Graphite Research
6-15 1999 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
CHAPTER 6: FLORA AND FAUNA
Reactor, which ceased operations in 1969 and isin the process of being decontaminated anddecommissioned. Plutonium levels in onsitesections of the Peconic River were found to beelevated above those in another Long Islandriver, the Connetquot River, which was used as areference river (i.e., control location not im-pacted by BNL operations). The plutoniumconcentration decreased as the distance down-stream of the Sewage Treatment Plant in-creased, with most of the downstream stationconcentration levels being comparable in rangeto Connetquot River samples. As determined bythe plutonium risk assessment, all Peconic Riverlevels were below those posing a threat tohuman health and do not, therefore, requirecleanup.
Plutonium was, however, found in areaswith elevated levels of metals in both the onsiteand near offsite sections of the Peconic River,which have been proposed for cleanup. Plansfor the removal of the sediment above cleanupgoals for the metals will further reduce thealready low levels of plutonium in the river.Refer to the detailed report in the Administra-tive Record for additional plutonium projectinformation (BNL 2000).
6.3 TOXICITY TESTING AT THE SEWAGE TREATMENTPLANT
Under the State Pollutant Discharge Elimi-nation System discharge permit, BNL conductstoxicity testing for the Sewage Treatment Planteffluent. Two species are evaluated - the fatheadminnow (Pimephales promelas) and the water flea(Ceriodaphnia dubia). Results from this testingprogram are presented in Chapter 3.
6.4 PRECIPITATION MONITORING
As part of the environmental monitoringprogram, precipitation samples are collectedapproximately quarterly at Stations P4 and S5(see Figure 4-4 for station locations) and ana-lyzed for radioactive content. Five samples weretaken from each of these two stations in 1999.Gross alpha activity measurements above theminimum detection limit were seen on twosamples, one from each location. The samplefrom the P4 location showed 5.3 pCi/L activitywhile the sample from the S5 location had anactivity level of 9.1 pCi/L. Both of these valuesare within the range of historic values reportedfor gross alpha activity. Gross beta activity wasmeasured in four samples at each of the sam-
pling locations. Location P4 had a maximumactivity level of 11.9 pCi/L with an average of5.7 pCi/L. Location S5 had a maximum of 11.1pCi/L with the average activity being 5.3 pCi/L.Gross beta activity values were within the rangeof values seen historically at these two locations.Tritium was not detected in any of the samplesfrom either location.
6.5 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT EDUCATION,OUTREACH, AND RESEARCH
BNL sponsors a variety of educational andoutreach activities on natural resources. Theseprograms are designed to provide an under-standing of the ecosystem and foster interest inscience. They are conducted at the Laboratoryin collaboration with DOE, local agencies, andlocal high schools and colleges. Ecologicalresearch is also conducted onsite to update thecurrent natural resources inventory, gain abetter understanding of the ecosystem, andguide management planning.
In 1998, a Smithtown High School studentcompleted a follow-up study of the BNL GammaForest (Superina 1998). The Gamma Forestresearch project, which began in 1961, exam-ined the effects of long-term irradiation on aforest ecosystem. No evaluations of the area hadbeen done since the project terminated in 1979.In the 1998 follow-up study, an innovativemethod of depicting population and habitatrelationships, in particular with regard tosediment chemistry and types, was developed.The results of this study were presented at theannual Pine Barrens Research Forum that washeld at BNL in 1999.
REFERENCES
BNL. 1999. Site Environmental Report for Calendar Year 1997. BNL-52553. Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York.February 1999.
BNL. 2000. Operable Unit V Final Plutonium ContaminationCharacterization and Radiological Dose and Risk Assessment Report.BNL/OU5/10.7/2634-3623 04-FEB-00. Brookhaven NationalLaboratory, Upton, New York. February 4, 2000.
IAEA. 1992. Effects of Ionizing Radiation on Plants and Animals atLevels Implied by Current Radiation Protection Standards. TechnicalReport Series No. 332. International Atomic Energy Agency,Vienna.
Naidu, J.R. 1999. Brookhaven National Laboratory WildlifeManagement Plan. BNL-52556. Brookhaven National Laboratory,Upton, New York. September 22, 1999.
NYSDOH. 1996. Radioactive Contamination in the Peconic River.Bureau of Environmental Radiation Protection, New York StateDepartment of Health, Albany, New York.
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NYSDOH. 1999. Deer Meat Contaminated with Cesium-137 atBrookhaven National Laboratory. Bureau of EnvironmentalRadiation Protection, New York State Department of Health,Albany, New York. March 1999.
Superina, N.J. 1999. �The Gamma Forest at Brookhaven NationalLaboratory, New York � A Geobotanical Analysis.� Pine BarrensResearch Forum held at Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton,New York, October 1999.
Thomlinson, W. 1993. Deer Population Estimate for BNL Site.Summer Project Report. Brookhaven National Laboratory,Upton, New York. March 1993.
