Nevada Test Site

Environmental Report 2007

DOE/NV/25946--543

Vision • Service • Partnership

National Security TechnologiesLLC

Schooner Crater

September 2008
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DOE/NV/25946--543 

Nevada Test Site 

Environmental Report 2007 

Editor: Cathy Wills 

Technical Editor: Sierra Cory 

Graphic Design/Desktop Publisher Specialist: Elaine Forbes 

Geographic Information System Specialist: Ashley Burns

September 2008 

Work Performed Under 

Contract No. DE-AC52-06NA25946 

Prepared for: 

U. S. Department of Energy 

National Nuclear Security Administration 

Nevada Site Office 

Prepared by: 

National Security Technologies, LLC 

P. O. Box 98521 

Las Vegas, NV 89193-8521
ii Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 
Executive Summary 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 iii 

Executive Summary 

The Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 (NTSER) was prepared to meet the information needs of the public and 

the requirements and guidelines of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for annual site environmental reports. It 

was prepared by National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec). This Executive Summary presents the purpose of the 

document, the major programs conducted at the Nevada Test Site (NTS), NTS key environmental initiatives, 

radiological releases and potential doses to the public resulting from site operations, a summary of nonradiological 

releases, implementation status of the NTS Environmental Management System, a summary of compliance with 

environmental regulations, pollution prevention and waste minimization accomplishments, and significant environmental accomplishments. Much of the content of this Executive Summary is also presented in a separate stand-alone 

pamphlet titled Nevada Test Site Environmental Report Summary 2007. 

Purpose of the NTS Environmental Report 

This NTSER was prepared to satisfy DOE Order 231.1A, Environment, Safety and Health Reporting. Its purpose is to 

(1) report compliance status with environmental standards and requirements, (2) present results of environmental 

monitoring of radiological and nonradiological effluents, (3) report estimated radiological doses to the public from 

releases of radioactive material, (4) summarize environmental incidents of noncompliance and actions taken in 

response to them, (5) describe the NTS Environmental Management System and characterize its performance, and 

(6) highlight significant environmental programs and efforts. This report meets these objectives for the NTS and 

three offsite Nevada facilities mentioned below. 

Major Site Programs and Facilities 

The U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) directs 

the management and operation of the NTS and seven sites across the nation. The NTS is located about 

105 kilometers (km) (65 miles [mi]) northwest of Las Vegas. The seven sites include three in Nevada (North Las 

Vegas Facility, Cheyenne Las Vegas Facility, and the Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL)–Nellis) and four sites in other 

states (Remote Sensing Laboratory–Andrews in Maryland, Livermore Operations in California, Los Alamos 

Operations in New Mexico, and Special Technologies Laboratory in California). Los Alamos, Lawrence Livermore, 

and Sandia National Laboratories are the principal organizations that sponsor and implement the nuclear weapons 

programs at the NTS. NSTec is the current Management and Operating (M&O) contractor accountable for the 

successful execution of work and ensuring that work is performed in compliance with environmental regulations. The 

seven sites all provide support to enhance the NTS as a location for weapons experimentation and nuclear test 

readiness. The three major NTS missions include National Security, Environmental Management, and Stewardship of 

the NTS. 

Facilities that support the National Security mission of keeping the U.S. stockpile of nuclear weapons safe and reliable 

include the U1a Facility, Big Explosives Experimental Facility (BEEF), Device Assembly Facility (DAF), and Joint 

Actinide Shock Physics Experimental Research (JASPER) Facility. Facilities that support the Homeland Security 

program include the new Radiological/Nuclear Countermeasures Test and Evaluation Complex, which was expected 

to be operational in 2006, but is currently on hold. 

Other Key Initiatives 

Apart from the major site programs, other NTS activities include demilitarization activities; controlled spills of 

hazardous material at the Non-Proliferation Test and Evaluation Complex (NPTEC) for research purposes; 

processing of waste destined for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in Carlsbad, New Mexico, or the Idaho National 

Laboratory in Idaho Falls, Idaho; and environmental research. 
Executive Summary 

iv Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Environmental Performance Measures Programs 

During the conduct of the major programs and other key initiatives mentioned above, NNSA/NSO complies with 

applicable environmental and public health protection regulations and strives to manage the land and facilities at the 

NTS as a unique and valuable national resource. For the identification of NTS environmental initiatives, NSTec, 

relies upon their Integrated Safety Management System (ISMS), contractual Work Smart Standards (WSS), and the 

Environmental Management System (EMS). The ISMS is designed to ensure the systematic integration of environment, safety, and health concerns into management and work practices so that NTS missions are accomplished safely 

and in a manner which protects the environment. NNSA/NSO verified implementation of an ISMS at the NTS in 

July 2001. NNSA/NSO oversees ISMS implementation through the Integrated Safety Management Council. 

WSS are an integral part of the ISMS whereby hazards and environmental aspects of work are identified and standards 

of operation are established that are specific to the work environment, its associated hazards, and its threats to the 

environment. WSS are developed at the management level with the most expertise in the work. The NNSA/NSOapproved WSS identify the contractual commitment of the M&O contractor to meet applicable laws, regulations, and 

policies which protect the public and the environment. Compliance with WSS is tracked through management 

assessments. 

The NSTec EMS is currently integrated with the ISMS. It is designed to incorporate concern for environmental 

performance throughout the organization, with the ultimate goal being continual reduction of the organization’s 

impact on the environment. Specific objectives and targets to reduce environmental impacts are identified through 

the EMS process and are tracked annually. During 2007, improvement measures were added to the EMS program in 

order to meet NSTec’s commitment to obtain ISO 14001 Certification by July 2009 (ISO stands for the International 

Organization for Standardization). Internal management assessments and audits have shown that the current program 

is mature and effective and is ready to begin the formal certification process. NSTec has contracted with an ISO 

14001 Registrar, and the Stage 1 and Stage 2 assessments for certification will be conducted in April and June of 2008. 

Performance Measures 

Performance measures are used to evaluate the achievement of organization or process goals and to identify the need 

to institute changes in an organization or process. The NTS performance measures, defined from the WSS, relate to 

protection of the environment and the public from effects of NTS operations. These performance measures apply to 

several programs and processes. They include (1) the potential radiological dose received by the public; (2) the 

identification, notification, and mitigation of spills and releases to the environment; (3) the reduction in the generation 

of wastes; and (4) compliance with applicable environmental protection regulations. The performance measures 

tracked by each process or program (e.g., air quality protection) are consolidated and presented in this report in 

Section 2.0, Compliance Summary. As part of implementing the EMS, objectives and targets to reduce environmental 

impacts were also identified. The objectives and targets for 2007 were reviewed and approved by the Executive Safety 

Leadership Committee. They are related to the protection of cultural and natural resources, reduction of generated 

wastes and amounts of petroleum-based fuels used, the protection of groundwater, and the environmentally sound 

management of groundwater resources. These additional objectives and targets (Section 17.0) were tracked by NSTec 

in addition to those measures presented in Section 2.0. 

Offsite Monitoring for Radiological Releases into Air 

An offsite radiological air monitoring program is run by the Community Environmental Monitoring Program (CEMP) 

and is coordinated by the Desert Research Institute (DRI) of the Nevada System of Higher Education under contract 

with NNSA/NSO (Section 6.0). It is a non-regulatory public informational and outreach program, and its purpose is 

to provide monitoring for radionuclides that might be released from the NTS. A network of 29 CEMP stations, 

located in selected towns and communities within a 160,000 square kilometer (61,776 square mile) area of southern 

Nevada, southeastern California, and southwestern Utah, was operated during 2007. The CEMP stations monitored 

gross alpha and beta radioactivity in airborne particulates using low-volume particulate air samplers, penetrating 
Executive Summary 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 v 

gamma radiation using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), gamma radiation exposure rates using pressurized ion 

chamber (PIC) detectors, and meteorological parameters using automated weather instrumentation. 

No airborne radioactivity related to historic or current NTS operations was detected in any of the samples from the 

CEMP particulate air samplers during 2007. Gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity was detected at all CEMP 

stations at levels which were consistent with previous years and which reflect radioactivity from naturally occurring 

radioactive materials (Section 6.1.1). The mean annual gross alpha activity across all sample locations was 

1.49 ± 0.45 x 10-15 microcuries per milliliter (μCi/mL). The mean annual gross beta activity across all sample 

locations was 2.30 ± 0.22 x 10-14 μCi/mL. No man-made gamma-emitting radionuclides were detected. 

TLD and PIC detectors measure gamma radiation from all sources: natural background radiation from cosmic and 

terrestrial sources and man-made sources. The offsite TLD and PIC results remained consistent with previous years’ 

background levels and are well within background levels observed in other parts of the United States. The highest 

total annual gamma exposure measured offsite, based on PIC data, was 175.55 milliroentgens per year (mR/yr) at 

Warm Springs Summit, Nevada. The lowest offsite gamma exposure rate measured was 72.40 mR/yr at Pahrump, 

Nevada (Section 6.1.3). 

Occasional elevated PIC gamma readings (10–50 percent above normal average background) in 2007 were associated 

with precipitation events and/or low barometric pressure, with two exceptions. The first exception was in July at the 

Milford, Utah CEMP station where the PIC malfunctioned, producing periodic gamma readings averaging between 

four and seven times normal background (Section 6.1.4). The second exception was between 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 

on November 21 at the Henderson, Nevada CEMP station where gamma readings registered approximately three and 

a half times normal background. Subsequent analysis and investigation indicated that the readings most likely 

represented measurement of a radiological source in close proximity to the PIC for the period in question, but the 

origin or nature of the source could not be determined (Section 6.1.4). 

Onsite Monitoring and Estimating of Radiological Releases into Air 

Estimates of radionuclide emissions on the NTS in 2007 were made for the following sources: (1) tritium (3H) gas 

released at Building 650 in Area 23 during equipment calibration; (2) 3H gas released during operations at the Dense 

Plasma Focus Facility in Area 11; (3) the evaporation of tritiated water discharged from E Tunnel in Area 12; (4) the 

evaporation of 3H from lined containment sumps at three post-shot wells in Areas 3 and 5; (5) the evaporation of 

tritiated water removed from the basement of Building A-1 at the North Las Vegas Facility (NLVF) and transported to 

the NTS for disposal in the Area 5 Sewage Lagoon; (6) the evaporation and transpiration of tritiated water from soil and 

vegetation, respectively, from the Area 3 Radioactive Waste Management Site (RWMS), the Area 5 RWMS, the 

Schooner crater in Area 20, and the Sedan crater in Area 10; (7) an unplanned release of plutonium-239 (239Pu) during 

wellhead access of borehole U9z PS#2; (8) the re-suspension of surface soil containing americium-241 (241Am), 

plutonium-238 (238Pu), and plutonium-239+240 (239+240Pu) from past nuclear testing at sites of remediation, waste 

management, and field research projects; and (9) the resuspension of radionuclides from soil deposits on the NTS across 

all NTS areas. Total radiological atmospheric releases for 2007 (Section 3.1.9) are shown in the table below. The 

methods used to estimate these quantities each year include the use of annual field air and water monitoring data, 

historical soil inventory data, and accepted soil resuspension and air transport models. 

Total NTS Radiological Atmospheric Releases for 2007 (Ci/yr) 

3H 85Kr 

Noble 

Gases 

(T1/2<40 

days) 

Short-Lived 

Fission and 

Activation 

Products 

(T1/2<3 hr) 

Fission 

 and 

Activation 

Products 

(T1/2>3 hr) 

Total 

Radioiodine 

Total 

RadiostrontiumTotal 

Uranium Plutonium 

Other 

Actinides Other 

550 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.054 (238Pu), 

0.32 (239+240Pu) 

0.047 

(241Am) 

0 
Executive Summary 

vi Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

A network of 19 air sampling stations (3 having low-volume particulate air samplers, 1 having a tritium water vapor 

sampler, and 15 having both) and a network of 109 TLDs were used to monitor diffuse onsite radioactive emissions 

in 2007. Several man-made radionuclides from legacy contamination were measured in air samples at levels above 

their minimum detectable concentrations (MDCs) in 2007: 241Am, 3H, 238Pu, and 239+240Pu (Section 3.1.4). These were 

attributed to the resuspension of contamination in surface soils from legacy sites and to the evaporation and 

transpiration of tritium from the soil, plants, and containment ponds at legacy sites. The highest mean level of 

241Am (46.34 ± 44.94 x 10-18 μCi/mL] was detected at Bunker 9-300 in Area 9, a vacant building located within an 

area of known soil contamination from past nuclear tests (Section 3.1.4.1). The highest mean level of tritium 

(285.32 ± 296.59 x 10-6 picocuries [pCi]/mL) was detected at Schooner, site of the second-highest yield Plowshare 

cratering experiment on the NTS where tritium-infused ejecta surrounds the crater (Section 3.1.4.5). The highest 

mean levels of plutonium isotopes in air were at Bunker 9-300 (5.26 ± 3.67 x 10-18 and 279.34 ± 285.02 x 10-18 μCi/mL 

for 238Pu and 239+240Pu, respectively) (Section 3.1.4.3). The relatively high plutonium values occur most often at the 

Bunker 9-300 air sampling station due to historical nuclear testing in Area 9 and surrounding Areas 3, 4, and 7. 

Uranium isotopes are also measured in air samples collected in areas where depleted uranium ordnance have been 

used or tested. However, the samples’ isotopic ratios were close to what one would expect from naturally occurring 

uranium in soil with possibly a slight contribution of enriched depleted uranium; the ratios did not resemble those 

expected from depleted uranium (Section 3.1.4.4). 

Gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity was detected at all stations on the NTS (Section 3.1.4.6). The average gross 

alpha activities ranged from 14.83 ± 11.39 to 30.00 ± 21.08 x 10-16 μCi/mL, the highest seen at Bunker 9-300. The 

average gross beta activities ranged from 19.90 ± 5.21 to 23.16 ± 6.68 x 10-15 μCi/mL, the highest seen at Sugar 

Bunker N in Area 5 where heavy loading of soil on the air filters is typical due to the sampler’s proximity to a busy 

dirt road. 

Both 3H and 239+240Pu continue their overall declining trends at the air sampling locations (Sections 3.1.4.5 and 3.1.4.3, 

respectively). 3H air concentrations have decreased since the cessation of testing in 1992. At most locations, the 3H 

measurements have been decreasing fairly rapidly from year to year; the average decline rate is around 13 percent per 

year across all locations. The exception to this trend occurs at Schooner, where on average, the air concentrations of 

3H have been increasing at an average rate of 6 percent per year. For 239+240Pu, the estimated average annual rates of 

decline range from 3.6 percent for Areas 1 and 3 to 17.2 percent for Areas 19 and 20. The decreases are attributed to 

immobilization of Pu particles in soil and/or a decrease in activities that cause soil resuspension. 

The mean annual NTS background gamma radiation exposure, measured at 10 TLD locations in uncontaminated sites 

away from all current operations, was 121 ± 34 mR (Section 5.3). The highest mean annual gamma exposure 

measured at a TLD station on the NTS was 750 ± 25 mR/yr at Schooner, one of the legacy Plowshare sites on 

Pahute Mesa. The lowest was 61 ± 1 mR/yr in Mercury at the fitness track. The mean annual gamma exposure at 17 

TLD locations near the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs was 147 ± 60 mR. At the 35 TLD locations near known legacy 

sites (including Schooner), it was 267 ± 170 mR. 

Offsite Radiological Monitoring of Water 

Offsite water monitoring conducted by the M&O contractor and by DRI (through the CEMP) verifies that there has 

been no offsite migration of man-made radionuclides from NTS underground contamination areas. 

In 2007, NSTec conducted radiological monitoring of 14 offsite wells and 4 offsite springs. The wells included 4 

private or community drinking water wells and 10 NNSA/NSO wells drilled for hydrogeologic investigations 

including groundwater flow modeling. All of the NSTec-sampled wells and springs are in Nevada within 35 mi of the 

western and southern borders of the NTS. The DRI, through the CEMP, sampled 28 offsite water locations in 2007. 

They included 4 springs, 21 wells, and 3 surface water bodies located in selected towns and communities within 

232 mi of the NTS (Section 6.2.1). The NSTec offsite water samples were also analyzed for man-made gammaemitting radionuclides that would signify contamination from nuclear testing and for gross alpha and gross beta 

radioactivity to determine if alpha or beta radioactivity at any well or spring is increasing over time. 

CEMP results in 2007, as in past years, continue to verify that no contaminated groundwater has migrated beyond the 

NTS boundaries into surrounding water supplies used by the public. Tritium concentrations for the spring and 
Executive Summary 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 vii 

surface water samples ranged from -6.4 ± 12.8 to 32.2 ± 19.4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) (Section 6.2.3). Samples 

from the Ely, Boulder City, Henderson, and St. George municipal water supplies had tritium levels barely above 

laboratory background. Both the Boulder City and Henderson municipal water systems obtain water from Lake 

Mead, which has documented levels of residual tritium persisting in the environment that originated from global 

atmospheric nuclear testing. Tritium concentrations from wells sampled by the CEMP in 2007 ranged from 

-9.7 ± 12.8 to 74.1 ± 25.8 pCi/L. Two wells with samples above the MDC of 26.5 pCi/L were resampled, and the 

reanalysis yielded results that were well below the MDC (Section 6.2.4). 

Similarly, the results of NSTec offsite water monitoring verified that there has been no offsite migration of man-made 

radionuclides from NTS underground contamination areas. None of the offsite springs or the offsite water supply 

wells had levels of tritium above their detection limits. Tritium levels among the sampled drinking water wells ranged 

from -17 ± 14 to 2.1 ± 14 pCi/L (Section 4.1.4). Tritium in the four offsite springs ranged from -9.5 ± 14 to 

6.8 ± 14 pCi/L (Section 4.1.5). Tritium in the ten non-potable NNSA/NSO offsite monitoring wells ranged from 

-17 ± 14 to 17 ± 14 pCi/L (Section 4.1.4). The highest tritium levels measured in offsite wells are within the range of 

concentrations indicative of analytical background levels for tritium (20 to 39 pCi/L) (Section 4.1.3). No offsite wells 

or springs contained any man-made gamma-emitting radionuclides. 

Most offsite wells and all offsite spring samples contained detectable gross alpha and gross beta activity (Sections 4.1.4 

and 4.1.5). The levels of activity in offsite drinking supply wells and springs were all less than the U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency (EPA) limits set for drinking water (15 pCi/L), except in Barn Spring. This spring’s measured 

gross alpha activity was 19 ± 2.4 pCi/L. The detectable gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity in all of the offsite 

spring and well samples is most likely from natural sources. 

Onsite Radiological Monitoring of Water 

In 2007, the onsite water monitoring network was composed of 5 potable and 4 non-potable water supply wells, 

16 monitoring wells, 1 tritiated water containment pond system, and 2 sewage lagoons. The 2007 data continue to 

indicate that underground nuclear testing has not impacted the NTS potable water supply network. None of the 

onsite potable or non-potable water supply wells had detectable concentrations of tritium or detectable concentrations 

of man-made gamma-emitting radionuclides (Section 4.1.6). Tritium values ranged from -17 ± 13 to 14 ± 17 pCi/L. 

The gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity detected in potable water supply wells represent the presence of naturallyoccurring radionuclides and did not exceed EPA limits. No gamma-emitting radionuclides were detected above their 

respective MDCs in any of the NTS monitoring wells in 2007. 

Twelve of the 16 onsite monitoring wells had levels of tritium that ranged from -16 ± 14 to 9.7 ± 14 pCi/L, all below 

their MDCs. Four of the 16 monitoring wells had detectable levels of tritium (i.e., above their MDCs) that ranged 

from 23 ± 14 to 390 ± 62 pCi/L, yet all well below the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 20,000 pCi/L 

(Section 4.1.7). These wells (PM-1, UE-7NS, WW A, and U-19BH) are each within 1 km (0.6 mi) of an historical 

underground nuclear test; all have consistently had detectable levels of tritium in past years. Their tritium levels are 

still less than 3 percent of the EPA MCL for drinking water of 20,000 pCi/L, and no trend of rising tritium 

concentrations in these wells has been observed since 2000. All of the 16 monitoring wells had measurable gross 

alpha and/or gross beta radioactivity, which is most likely from natural sources. 

Five constructed basins collect and hold water discharged from E Tunnel in Area 12 where nuclear testing was conducted in the past. Tunnel effluent water and sediment samples are analyzed for tritium, gross alpha, gross beta, and 

other radionuclides. Most samples had detectable radionuclide concentrations in 2007 (Section 4.1.8). The average 

tritium concentration in tunnel effluent water was 590,000 pCi/L, lower than the limit allowed under a discharge 

permit (1,000,000 pCi/L). Gross alpha and gross beta values in 2007 were also less than their permitted limits. 

Neither of the two onsite sewage lagoons had detectable levels of tritium (Section 4.1.9). 

The Underground Test Area (UGTA) Subproject pumps tritiated water into lined sumps during studies conducted at 

contaminated post-shot or near-cavity wells on the NTS. Three of these types of contaminated wells were sampled 

in 2007. The tritium levels in these wells ranged from 600 ± 300 to 7,700,000 ± 79,000 pCi/L (Section 4.1.10). 
Executive Summary 

viii Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Radiation Dose to the Public from the NTS 

Background Gamma Radiation – Mean background gamma radiation exposure rates on the NTS are measured at 

ten TLD stations located away from radiologically contaminated sites. These ranged from 65 to 165 mR/yr during 

2007 (Section 5.3). This equates to an annual estimated background external dose of 65 to 166 millirem per year 

(mrem/yr) to a hypothetical person residing at those locations all year. In comparison, DRI measured background 

radiation in 2007 at offsite locations using TLDs which ranged from 74 mR/yr at Pahrump, Nevada, to 148 mR/yr at 

Twin Springs, Nevada (Section 6.1.2). 

Public Dose from Drinking Water – Man-made radionuclides from past nuclear testing have not been detected in 

offsite groundwater in the past or during 2007 (Section 4.1). The offsite public does not receive a radiation dose from 

NTS operations from drinking water.

Public Dose from Inhalation – The radiation dose limit to the general public via just the air transport pathway is 

established by the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) under the Clean Air Act to 

be 10 mrem/yr. The EPA, Region IX, has approved the use of six air sampling stations on the NTS (called “critical 

receptor” stations) to verify compliance with the NESHAP dose limit. The following man-made radionuclides were 

detected at three or more of the critical receptor samplers in 2007: 241Am, 238Pu, 239+240Pu, and 3H. Concentrations of 

these radionuclides at each of the stations indicated that the NESHAP dose limit to the public was not exceeded. The 

Schooner station in the far northwest corner of the NTS experienced the highest concentrations of radioactive air 

emissions (Section 3.1.5), yet an individual residing at this station would experience a dose from air emissions of only 

1.9 mrem/yr, 19 percent of the admissible dose limit. No one resides at this location, and the dose at offsite 

populated locations 20–80 km (12–50 mi) from the Schooner station would be much lower due to wind dispersion. 

Public Dose from Direct Radiation – The radiation dose limit to the general public via all possible transport pathways (over and above background dose) established by DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the 

Environment, is 100 mrem/yr. This includes internal and external dose. Areas accessible to the public had direct 

gamma radiation exposure rates comparable to natural background rates. The TLD location on the west side of the 

parking area at Gate 100, the NTS entrance gate, had an estimated mean exposure of 164 mR/yr, with quarterly 

estimates that ranged from 70 to 268 mR/yr (Section 5.3.1). It is likely that low-level radioactive waste shipments 

intermittently parked there prior to entering the NTS are responsible for such quarter-to-quarter variation. 

Military or other personnel on the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) could be exposed to direct radiation 

from legacy sites in Frenchman Lake playa. A TLD location near the NTS boundary with NTTR in the playa had an 

estimated annual exposure of 369 mR (Section 5.3.1). The resulting above-background dose of approximately 204 to 

304 mrem/yr, depending on which background radiation value is used, would exceed the 100 mrem/yr dose limit to a 

person residing year-round there. However, there are no living quarters or full-time personnel in that area. 

Public Dose from Ingestion of Radionuclides in Game Animals – Game animals from different contaminated 

NTS sites are trapped each year and analyzed for their radionuclide content to estimate the dose to hunters who might 

consume these animals if the animals moved off the NTS. In 2007, two mourning doves were trapped at the Area 12 

E Tunnel Ponds. Tissues from one pronghorn antelope,killed accidentally by a vehicle in Area 5 and a foal killed by 

predators in Area 18 were also sampled. Based on tissue analyses from these samples, the highest annual dose to a 

member of the public consuming NTS game animals was estimated to be 0.091 mrem (0.00091 millisieverts) 

(Section 8.1.3, Table 8-3). 

Public Dose from Release of Property Containing Radioactive Material – In September of 2007, it was 

discovered that a piece of heavy equipment that contained radioactive material slightly above the unrestricted release 

criteria of DOE Order 5400.5 had been released off site (Section 2.3.1). The estimated maximum dose consequence 

to an individual who spent 12 hours per day within 1 foot of the radioactive material for all 112 days the equipment 

was offsite and ingested all the removable radioactive material is less than 0.2 mrem (Section 8.1.6). NSTec is upgrading their process for release of materials and equipment to prevent the occurrence of similar events in the future. 

Public Dose from All Pathways – Existing 2007 radiological monitoring data indicate that the dose to the public 

living in communities surrounding the NTS is not expected to be significantly higher than the previous 10 years 

and were estimated to be 2.19 mrem/yr. This is less than 3 percent of the 100 mrem/yr dose limit and about 
Executive Summary 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 ix 

7 percent of the total dose the maximally exposed individual receives from natural background radiation (340 

mrem/yr) (Section 8.1.7). 

Nonradiological Releases into Air 

The release of air pollutants is regulated on the NTS under a Class II air quality operating permit. Class II permits are 

issued for “minor” sources where annual emissions must not exceed 100 tons of any one criteria pollutant, or 10 tons 

of any one of the 189 hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), or 25 tons of any combination of HAPs. Criteria pollutants 

include sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOX), carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM), and volatile 

organic compounds (VOCs). The NTS facilities regulated by the permit include (1) over 15 facilities/185 pieces of 

equipment in Areas 1, 3, 5, 6, 12, 23 and 27; (2) the NPTEC; (3) Site-Wide Chemical Release Areas; (4) the BEEF; 

and (5) the Explosives Ordnance Disposal Unit. 

An estimated 3.41 tons of criteria air pollutants were released on the NTS in 2007 (Section 3.2.1). The majority of the 

emissions were NOx from diesel generators and VOCs from the bulk storage of gasoline. Lead is classified as both a 

criteria pollutant and a HAP. Lead air emissions for permitted NTS operations are reported to the State as part of the 

total HAPs emissions. Total HAPs emissions from permitted operations in 2007 was only 32 pounds (0.02 tons) 

(Section 3.2.1). Lead emissions from non-permitted activities, such as soldering and weapons use, are reported to the 

EPA, and this quantity in 2007 74 pounds (0.04 tons) (Section 10.3). No emission limits for any criteria air pollutants 

or HAPS were exceeded. The NTS air permit requires performance emission testing of equipment that vents 

emissions through stacks (called “point sources”). No performance emission tests (for equipment that vents 

emissions through stacks) were conducted in 2007. Such tests are conducted only once every five years. 

In 2007, two tests consisting of 21 releases of hazardous chemicals were conducted at the Area 5 NPTEC facility and 

at the Test Cell C NPTEC facility in Area 25 (Section 3.2.5). An annual report of the types and amounts of chemicals 

released and the test plans and final analysis reports for each chemical release were submitted to the State of Nevada. 

No ecological monitoring was performed since each test posed a very low level of risk to the environment and biota. 

There were no discharges of nonradiological hazardous materials off the NTS or from NNSA/NSO offsite facilities 

in 2007. 

Nonradiological Releases into Water 

There are no liquid discharges to navigable waters, offsite surface water drainage systems, or publicly owned treatment 

works resulting from operations on the NTS. Therefore, no Clean Water Act National Pollutant Discharge 

Elimination System (NPDES) permits are required for NTS operations. 

Industrial discharges on the NTS are limited to two operating sewage lagoon systems, the Area 6 Yucca Lake and 

Area 23 Mercury systems. Under the conditions of State of Nevada operating permits, liquid discharges to these 

sewage lagoons are tested quarterly for biological oxygen demand, pH, and total suspended solids. Annually, sewage 

lagoon pond waters are sampled for a suite of toxic chemicals. In 2007, quarterly and annual analyses of sewage 

influent and pond waters, respectively, both showed that all water measurements were within permit limits (often 

below detection levels) with one exception. One measure of 5-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5) Mean Daily 

Load was exceeded at the Area 23 Mercury lagoons in the fourth quarter (Section 4.2.3). 

Onsite Nonradiological Drinking Water Quality 

NNSA/NSO operates a network of six permitted wells that comprise three permitted public water systems on the 

NTS; these supply the potable water needs of NTS workers and visitors. NNSA/NSO also hauls potable water to 

work locations at the NTS that are not part of a public water system. Monitoring results indicate that water samples 

from the three public water systems and from the potable water hauling trucks met the National Primary and 

Secondary Drinking Water Standards in 2007 (Section 4.2.1). 
Executive Summary 

x Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Nonradiological Releases into Air and Water at the NLVF 

Like the NTS, the NLVF is regulated for the emission of criteria air pollutants and HAPs. The regulated sources of 

emissions include an aluminum sander, an abrasive blaster, emergency generators, and a spray paint booth. The 

combined quantity of criteria air pollutants and HAPs emitted at the NLVF in 2007 was 0.185 tons, ranging from 

0.0004 tons for HAPS to 0.121 tons for NOx (Appendix A, Section A.1.3). 

Water discharges at the NLVF were regulated in 2007 by a permit with the City of North Las Vegas (CNLV) for 

sewer discharges and by an EPA-issued NPDES discharge permit for dewatering operations to control rising 

groundwater levels that surround the facility. The NPDES permit authorizes the discharge of pumped groundwater 

to the groundwater of the State via percolation and to the Las Vegas Wash via the CNLV storm drain system. 

Self-monitoring and reporting of the levels of nonradiological contaminants in sewage and industrial outfalls is 

conducted. In 2007, contaminant measurements were below established permit limits in all water samples from all 

NLVF sewage outfalls (Appendix A, Section A.1.1). 

Nonradiological Releases into Air and Water at RSL-Nellis

The sources of air pollutants at RSL-Nellis that are regulated for the emission of criteria pollutants and HAPs include 

boilers, water heaters, emergency generators, a spray paint booth, and a vapor degreaser. The total estimated 

quantities of criteria air pollutants and HAPs emitted in 2007 is 0.751 tons. Natural gas consumption at RSL-Nellis in 

2007 was 4,493,700 cubic feet (ft3) (Appendix A, Section A.3.2). Natural gas consumption is reported as a 

requirement of the RSL-Nellis air permit. 

Discharges of wastewater from RSL-Nellis are required to meet permit limits set by the Clark County Water 

Reclamation District. All wastewater outfall samples in 2007 were below permit limits (Appendix A, Section A.3.1). 

Pollution Prevention/Waste Minimization (P2/WM) Activities 

P2/WM activities result in reductions to the volume and/or toxicity of waste actually generated on site. A reduction 

of 167 metric tons (mtons) (184 tons) of hazardous wastes was realized in 2007 (Section 11.3). The largest proportion 

of this reduction came from shipments of bulk used oil (76.6 mtons [84 tons]) and lead acid batteries (48.3 mtons 

[53 tons]) to offsite vendors for recycling. 

A reduction of 1,698 mtons (1871 tons) of solid wastes was realized in 2007. The largest proportion of this reduction 

came from shipments of 791.8 mtons (873 tons) of ferrous scrap metal, 232.3 mtons (256 tons) of non-ferrous scrap 

metal, and 606.2 mtons (668 tons) of mixed paper and cardboard to offsite vendors for recycling. Also, 47.5 mtons 

(52 tons) of food wastes from the NTS cafeterias were shipped to a local pig farm. 

Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources Management 

DRI archeologists examined a total of 199.95 hectares (370.47 acres) on the NTS during cultural resources inventories 

and historical evaluations in 2007. The inventories were conducted for two proposed projects, and no cultural 

resources were identified (Section 12.1.1). Historical evaluations were completed for the U12e Tunnel and the Area 

25 BREN (Bare Reactor Experiment Nevada) Tower Complex. The U12e Tunnel and all of its associated features are 

eligible to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) as a historic landscape. The Area 25 BREN Tower and 28 

of its 38 associated structures and features are also eligible to the NRHP (Section 12.1.2). 

The National Historic Preservation Act requires federal agencies to identify and maintain the integrity of historic 

properties under their jurisdiction. Ten such properties on the NTS were visited in 2007 to meet this requirement: 

three prehistoric temporary camps, two dual component camps (prehistoric and historic), two mining camps, one 

historic cabin, Yucca Lake Historic District structures, and six sets of atmospheric viewing benches. The roof of a 

cabin at one of the mining camps had collapsed. All other sites were in a good state. Additional 2007 field projects 
Executive Summary 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 xi 

focused on obtaining photographic documentation of structures in Areas 2, 6, and 7 and real-time archaeological 

support for the placement of 125 orthophoto targets in various areas on the NTS (Section 12.1.3.2). 

DRI also worked on developing a plan to mitigate the cumulative effects of nuclear tests, time, and weather on two 

NTS buildings (Section 12.1.3.1); conducted eight archival research projects (Section 12.1.3.2); and prepared five 

reports for NNSA/NSO (Section 12.1.3.3). 

The NTS Archaeological Collection contains over 400,000 artifacts. In 2007, several curation tasks were conducted; 

most focused on upgrading the storage system and reorganizing the archival records (Section 12.2). Known locations 

of American Indian human remains at the NTS continued to be protected from NTS activities in 2007. 

The NNSA/NSO has an active American Indian Program which conducts consultations between NNSA/NSO and 

NTS-affiliated American Indian tribes through the Consolidated Group of Tribes and Organizations. In 2007, this 

Program was enhanced by the addition of an American Indian Program Coordinator. There were no activities in 2007 

that resulted in consultation, no new proposals for artifact displays, and no requests by tribes or tribal members to 

conduct religious ceremonies on the NTS (Section 12.3). 

Ecological Monitoring 

In 2007, biologists conducted surveys for 11 NTS projects within the habitat of the threatened desert tortoise 

protected under the Endangered Species Act (Section 13.1). No desert tortoises were accidentally injured or killed at 

project sites, nor were any found, captured, or displaced from project sites. One, however, was accidentally killed 

along a paved road. A cumulative total of 115.77 ha (286.07ac) of desert tortoise habitat on the NTS has been 

disturbed since the species was listed as threatened in 1992. Surveys for an additional 11 projects outside tortoise 

habitat were conducted prior to site disturbance to determine the presence of other important species (Section 13.2). 

Important species (as defined in Section 13.2) known to occur on the NTS include 20 plants, 1 mollusk, 2 reptiles, 

over 250 birds, and 26 mammals. Field surveys for a few important species continued in 2007. Biologists continued 

to monitor some of these plant and animal species on the NTS in 2007, which included western red-tailed skinks, 

western burrowing owls, bats, and mountain lions (Section 13.3). As a result, the documented distribution patterns of 

these species on the NTS have been increased, and other species new to the NTS have been recorded. Data on 

species’ movements, genetic relationships, and activity patterns have been gathered using the latest research 

techniques including DNA analysis, radio-isotopic analysis, and motion-activated cameras. 

Seven bird mortalities were recorded on the NTS in 2007 (Section 13.3.2.3). 

Biologists continued working in cooperation with Southern Nevada Health District personnel to determine if 

mosquitoes on the NTS carry West Nile virus. No infected mosquitoes were found (Section 13.3.4). An annual 

vegetation survey to determine wildland fire hazards was conducted in the spring, and survey findings were submitted 

to the NTS Fire Marshal. The roadside areas that had the highest risk of wildland fires were in Areas 29 and 30 

(Section 13.5). 

Chemical release test plans for two activities at NPTEC in Area 25 were reviewed (Section 13.6), and routine seasonal 

sampling of downwind and upwind transects near the NPTEC was conducted. 

Compliance with Environmental Laws, Regulations, and Policies 

A summary of NNSA/NSO’s compliance with over 100 applicable environmental laws, regulations, and policies is 

presented in Section 2.0. The following table shows those compliance categories for which compliance was not 

100 percent. 
Executive Summary 

xii Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Noncompliance Incidents in 2007 

Air Quality 

An NPTEC air monitor used to measure particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter failed during 

one chemical release test (Section 2.1.1). 

Water Quality and Protection 

The 5-day Biological Oxygen Demand Mean Daily Load limit was exceeded at the Area 23 Mercury Sewage lagoons 

in the fourth quarter (Section 4.2.3.1). 

Radiation Protection 

A piece of heavy equipment that contained radioactive material slightly above the unrestricted release criteria of 

DOE Order 5400.5 was released offsite (Section 2.3.1; Section 8.1.6). 

Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization 

The Executive Order 13101 goal to have 100 percent of purchases of items from the EPA-designated list contain 

recycled materials at the specified minimum content was not met. The percentage of such purchases in 2007 was 52 

(Section 11.1). 

Conservation and Protection of Biota and Wildlife Habitat 

Three out of seven accidental bird deaths were attributable to NTS activities (e.g., kill by vehicular traffic); those 

killed represented three species protected from harm as migratory birds (Section 13.3.2.3). 

Accidental/Unplanned Environmental Releases or Occurrences 

(1) Approximately 20 gallons of sewage were discharged in Area 6 due to an obstruction in a sewer line, (2) an 

estimated 30 to 60 gallons of dielectric mineral oil spilled from an electrical power box that had tipped over in Area 

12, and (3) NSTec received a notice of deficiency for label discrepancies in a shipment of three low-level mixed waste 

containers from the NTS (Section 2.11.1). 

Significant Environmental Accomplishments 

Environmental Restoration – The cleanup of sites contaminated by past DOE operations and the hydrogeological 

investigations supporting characterization of underground nuclear contamination areas are the most significant 

environmental work performed by NNSA/NSO each year. The DOE, U.S. Department of Defense, and the State of 

Nevada Division of Environmental Protection identify a work scope and milestone schedule for the cleanup and safe 

closure of the contaminated aboveground sites and for the field investigations and model development necessary to 

characterize the underground sites. In 2007, 114 contaminated aboveground sites were closed safely. These aboveground sites consist of facilities and land, and are referred to as Industrial Sites. In addition to the Industrial Sites 

closures, extensive progress was made toward the development of hydrologic models describing groundwater flow and 

possible radionuclide transport from the primary underground sites into the groundwater underlying public lands outside 

the boundaries of the NTS. This involved completing the compilation, analysis, and documentation of all transport 

parameters, which will be used to build the flow model for Corrective Action Unit (CAU) 98 (Yucca Flat/ Climax Mine), 

and completing the 3D hydrostratigraphic framework model for CAU 99 (Rainier/Shoshone) (Section 14.2). 

Pollution Prevention – NNSA/NSO received one NNSA Pollution Prevention Award for P2 activities in 2007 for the 

renovation project of Building B-3 at the NLVF. The project received an Environmental Stewardship Award. Building 

B-3 had been vacant for two years, and rather than demolish it, NNSA/NSO decided to remediate, renovate, and 

upgrade it. This project resulted in extending the life cycle of the building, reconfiguring office space to increase 

capacity, conserving resources, reducing waste material going to landfills, contributing to recycling efforts, and 

eliminating a 20-mile round trip drive for displaced employees. It also may result in B-3 receiving a certification under 

the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System administered by the U.S. Green 

Building Council (Section 11.2.2). 

Cultural Resources – The ongoing historical evaluations of the nuclear testing tunnels in Rainier and Aqueduct mesas 

on the NTS is the first time anywhere that horizontal nuclear test beds have been studied for their historical significance. 

The tunnels are treated as historic landscapes, and the importance of their contributions to the Cold War effort have 

qualified them to be exempted from the rule that buildings and structures must be at least 50 years old to be considered 

for the National Register of Historic Places. With this exemption, the B and E tunnels have been determined eligible to 

the National Register of Historic Places (Section 12.1.2). This significant determination will allow the tunnels’ historic 

landscapes to be preserved in place. 
 Acknowledgements 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 xiii

Acknowledgements 

Environmental Technical Services (ETS) of National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec), is responsible for 

producing this document for the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site 

Office (NNSA/NSO). Environmental monitoring and compliance data were gathered through the combined efforts 

of several NSTec organizations in addition to ETS: Environmental Services, Radioactive Waste Operations, Solid 

Waste Operations, Environmental Restoration, Ecological Services, Radiological Control, Occupational Safety & 

Health, and Contractor Assurance & Compliance. The Water Resources and Cultural Resources divisions of the 

Desert Research Institute (DRI) contributed data for offsite water and air monitoring and cultural resource protection. 

Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture (SNJV) provided schedule and progress data for environmental restoration projects. 

SNJV also provided radioanalysis data for certain onsite wells sampled under the Underground Test Area Project. 

The Air Resources Laboratory, Special Operations and Research Division (ARL/SORD) provided summary 

descriptions of the Nevada Test Site (NTS) climate, and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provided water level and 

usage data for selected wells. My thanks go to each of the authors and contributors who are listed below from these 

organizations. 

Chapter Authors and Contributors

Executive Summary

 Cathy A. Wills, NSTec 

1.0 Introduction

Charles B. Davis, EnviroStat

 Cathy A. Wills, NSTec 

2.0 Compliance Summary

 Colleen M. Beck, DRI 

 Elizabeth C. Calman, NSTec 

 Tony M. Dao, NSTec 

 Janene L. Dixon, NSTec 

 Andrea L. Gile, NSTec 

 Cirilo C. Gonzales, NSTec 

 Sydney J. Gordon, NSTec 

 Paul K. Ortego, NSTec 

 Phyllis M. Radack, NSTec 

 Glenn Richardson, NSTec 

 David D. Rudolph, NSTec 

 Gregory T. Schmett, NSTec 

 Carlton Soong, NSTec 

 Tammy H. Wallace, NSTec 

 Ronald W. Warren, NSTec 

3.0 Radiological and Nonradiological

 Air Monitoring

 Elizabeth C. Calman, NSTec 

 Tony Dao, NSTec 

 Charles B. Davis, EnviroStat 

 Robert F. Grossman, NSTec 

 Tammy H. Wallace, NSTec 

 Ronald W. Warren, NSTec 

4.0 Radiological and Nonradiological

 Water Monitoring 

 Charles B. Davis, EnviroStat 

 Janene L. Dixon, NSTec 

 Paul K. Ortego, NSTec 

 Phyllis M. Radack, NSTec 

 Theodore J. Redding, NSTec 

 David D. Rudolph, NSTec 

 Carlton Soong, NSTec 

 Ronald W. Warren, NSTec 

5.0 Direct Radiation Monitoring

 Charles B. Davis, EnviroStat 

 Ronald W. Warren, NSTec 

6.0 Oversight Radiological Monitoring

 of Air and Water

 William T. Hartwell, DRI 

 Charles E. Russell, DRI 

 Craig Shadel, DRI 

7.0 Radiological Biota Monitoring

 Ronald W. Warren, NSTec 

8.0 Radiological Dose Assessment

 Robert F. Grossman, NSTec 

 Mark McMahon, NSTec 

 Ronald W. Warren, NSTec 
Acknowledgements 

xiv Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 9.0 Waste Management and

 Environmental Restoration

 Pat Arnold, NSTec 

 Carol F. Dinsman, SNJV

 Cirilo C. Gonzales, NSTec 

 Sydney J. Gordon, NSTec 

 David B. Hudson, NSTec 

 Glenn Richardson, NSTec 

 Gregory T. Schmett, NSTec 

 Carlton Soong, NSTec 

10.0 Hazardous Materials Control and

 Management

 Orin L. Haworth, NSTec 

 Carlton Soong, NSTec 

 Tammy H. Wallace, NSTec 

11.0 Pollution Prevention

 Orin L. Haworth, NSTec 

12.0 Historic Preservation and Cultural

 Resources Management

 Colleen M. Beck, DRI 

 Barbara A. Holz, DRI 

13.0 Ecological Monitoring

 David C. Anderson, NSTec 

 Paul D. Greger, NSTec 

 Derek B. Hall, NSTec 

 Dennis J. Hansen, NSTec 

 W. Kent Ostler, NSTec 

14.0 Underground Test Area Project

 David L. Finnegan, LANL 

 Paul K. Ortego, NSTec 

15.0 Hydrologic Resources Management

 Program

 Dave Decker, DRI 

 Robert P. Graves, USGS 

 Bruce W. Hurley, NNSA/NSO 

16.0 Meteorological Monitoring

 Walter Schalk, ARL/SORD 

17.0 Environmental Management System

 Orin L. Haworth, NSTec 

 David Schrock, SNJV 

18.0 Compliance Quality Assurance Program

 Elizabeth Burns, NSTec 

 Charles B. Davis, EnviroStat 

 Theodore J. Redding, NSTec 

19.0 Oversight Quality Assurance Program

 Craig Shadel, DRI 

Appendix A: Offsite Facilities

 Elizabeth C. Calman, NSTec 

 Sigmund L. Drellack, NSTec 

 David D. Rudolph, NSTec 

 Tammy H. Wallace, NSTec 

 Ronald W. Warren, NSTec 

NSTec ETS Support Staff 

The following individuals within ETS are responsible for the numerous tasks that are integral to the collection, quality 

assurance, and quality control of much of the environmental data reported in this report. These are the “behind the 

scenes” folks. Thank you all for your efforts. 

Coordination of Field Sampling Operations for Routine Radiological Environmental Monitoring Plan

(RREMP), Clean Water Act (CWA) and Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Projects: 

Terrence P. Sonnenburg 

Field Sampling for RREMP, CWA, and SDWA Projects: 

Melissa A. Cabble 

Martin D. Cavanaugh 

Paul D. Greger 

Matthew O. Weaver 

Laboratory Operations Supporting RREMP Screening and Sample Processing: 

Lynn N. Jaussi 
 Acknowledgements 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 xv

Sample Management Supporting the NSTec Subcontracting of Environmental Analytical Services: 

Catherine D. Castaneda 

Theodore J. Redding 

 

RREMP Data Verification, Validation, and Review: 

Elizabeth Burns 

Theodore J. Redding 

Ronald W. Warren 

 

Quality Assurance Oversight of the RREMP: 

Elizabeth Burns 

Theodore J. Redding 

Administration of the Bechtel Environmental Integrated Data Management System (BEIDMS) for 

RREMP, CWA, and SDWA Projects:

Elizabeth Burns 

Robert G. Peppard 

NTSER Summary Preparation 

This lengthy report is summarized in a separate stand-alone pamphlet titled Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 

Summary 2007. The following individuals are thanked for their contributions to the Summary: 

Rose C. Denton, NSTec 

Bruce W. Hurley, NNSA/NSO 

Frank DiSanza, NNSA/NSO 

Kelly Snyder, NNSA/NSO 

Dona Stevens, SNJV 

Report Production and Distribution Support Personnel 

Lastly, my appreciation goes to the following individuals who were responsible for improving the quality, appearance, 

and timely production and distribution of this report: 

Ashley Burns of NSTec Spatial Sciences worked with all the authors to produce the high-quality Geographic 

Information System (GIS)-generated maps and figures. 

Charles Davis of EnviroStat provided support for the statistical analyses and interpretation of NTS radiological 

monitoring data collected by ETS. 

Tom Fitzmaurice of NSTec Environmental Restoration provided his artistic talents to produce the drawing of 

possible pathways of radiological exposure to the public presented in the NTSER Summary. 

Kurt Jahn, Jeff Li, and Mark Shaw of Printing, Mail & Administrative Support produced high-quality hard copies and 

compact discs of the NTSER and the NTSER Summary under a tight production schedule. 

Sierra Cory of Directives Management & Publications (DM&P) provided a thorough review of this document to 

ensure spelling, format, grammar, references, tables, figures, acronyms, table of contents, etc., were all in 

order. 

Elaine Forbes of DM&P is the document’s graphics specialist and desktop publisher responsible for the final layout 

and format of the NTSER and NTSER Summary. 
Acknowledgements 

xvi Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

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Table of Contents

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 xvii

Table of Contents 

Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................................... iii 

Acknowledgements...................................................................................................................................................... xiii 

List of Figures.............................................................................................................................................................xxiv 

List of Tables ..............................................................................................................................................................xxvi 

1.0 Introduction and Helpful Information........................................................................................................1-1 

1.1 Site Location......................................................................................................................................1-1 

1.2 Environmental Setting......................................................................................................................1-1 

1.3 Site History.........................................................................................................................................1-4 

1.4 Site Mission........................................................................................................................................1-4 

1.5 Primary Operations and Activities .................................................................................................1-5 

1.6 Populations Near the NTS ..............................................................................................................1-8 

1.7 Understanding Data in this Report ................................................................................................1-8 

1.7.1 Scientific Notation ..............................................................................................................1-8 

1.7.2 Unit Prefixes.........................................................................................................................1-8 

1.7.3 Units of Radioactivity .........................................................................................................1-9 

1.7.4 Radiological Dose Units.....................................................................................................1-9 

1.7.5 International System of Units for Radioactivity and Dose ...........................................1-9 

1.7.6 Radionuclide Nomenclature ............................................................................................1-10

1.7.7 Units of Measurement ......................................................................................................1-10 

1.7.8 Measurement Variability...................................................................................................1-10 

1.7.9 Mean and Standard Deviation.........................................................................................1-11 

1.7.10 Standard Error of the Mean.............................................................................................1-11 

1.7.11 Median, Maximum, and Minimum Values ....................................................................1-12 

1.7.12 Less Than (<) Symbol ......................................................................................................1-12 

1.7.13 Negative Radionuclide Concentrations..........................................................................1-12 

1.7.14 Understanding Graphic Information .............................................................................1-12 

2.0 Compliance Summary....................................................................................................................................2-1 

2.1 Air Quality..........................................................................................................................................2-1 

2.1.1 Compliance Issues...............................................................................................................2-2 

2.1.2 Compliance Reports............................................................................................................2-3 

2.1.3 Compliance Status...............................................................................................................2-3 

2.2 Water Quality and Protection .........................................................................................................2-6 

2.2.1 Compliance Issues...............................................................................................................2-7 

2.2.2 Compliance Reports............................................................................................................2-7 

2.2.3 Compliance Status...............................................................................................................2-7 

2.3 Radiation Dose Protection ............................................................................................................2-10 

2.3.1 Compliance Issues.............................................................................................................2-11 

2.3.2 Compliance Reports..........................................................................................................2-11 

2.3.3 Compliance Status.............................................................................................................2-11 

2.4 Radioactive and Nonradioactive Waste Management and Environmental Restoration ......2-13 

2.4.1 Compliance Reports..........................................................................................................2-14 

2.4.2 Compliance Status.............................................................................................................2-15 

2.5 Hazardous Materials Control and Management.........................................................................2-18 

2.5.1 Compliance Reports..........................................................................................................2-19 

2.5.2 Compliance Status.............................................................................................................2-19 
Table of Contents

xviii Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

2.6 National Environmental Policy Act.............................................................................................2-21 

2.7 Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization...........................................................................2-22 

2.7.1 Compliance Reports..........................................................................................................2-22 

2.7.2 Compliance Status.............................................................................................................2-22 

2.8 Historic Preservation and Cultural Resource Protection..........................................................2-24 

2.8.1 Reporting Requirements...................................................................................................2-25 

2.8.2 Compliance Status.............................................................................................................2-25 

2.9 Conservation and Protection of Biota and Wildlife Habitat ....................................................2-26 

2.9.1 Compliance Issues.............................................................................................................2-27 

2.9.2 Compliance Reports..........................................................................................................2-27 

2.10 Environmental Management System ...........................................................................................2-29 

2.10.1 Compliance Reports..........................................................................................................2-29 

2.10.2 Compliance Status.............................................................................................................2-29 

2.11 Occurrences, Unplanned Releases, and Continuous Releases .................................................2-30 

2.11.1 Compliance Status.............................................................................................................2-30 

2.12 Environment, Safety, and Health Reporting...............................................................................2-32 

2.12.1 Compliance Status.............................................................................................................2-32 

2.13 Summary of Permits .......................................................................................................................2-33 

3.0 Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring .....................................................................................3-1

3.1 Radiological Air Monitoring............................................................................................................3-1

3.1.1 Monitoring System Design.................................................................................................3-2

3.1.2 Air Particulate and Tritium Sampling Methods..............................................................3-4

3.1.3 Presentation of Air Sampling Data...................................................................................3-5

3.1.4 Air Sampling Results from Environmental Samplers ....................................................3-5

3.1.4.1 Americium-241...................................................................................................3-5

3.1.4.2 Cesium-137 .........................................................................................................3-7

3.1.4.3 Plutonium Isotopes............................................................................................3-7

3.1.4.4 Uranium Isotopes.............................................................................................3-11

3.1.4.5 Tritium ...............................................................................................................3-13

3.1.4.6 Gross Alpha and Gross Beta..........................................................................3-16

3.1.5 Air Sampling Results from Critical Receptor Samplers...............................................3-18

3.1.6 Air Sampling Results from Point-Source (Stack) Sampler ..........................................3-18

3.1.7 Emission Evaluations for Planned Projects ..................................................................3-19

3.1.8 Unplanned Releases ..........................................................................................................3-19

3.1.9 Total NTS Radiological Atmospheric Releases ............................................................3-19

3.1.10 Environmental Impact......................................................................................................3-20

3.2 Nonradiological Air Quality Assessment ....................................................................................3-21

3.2.1 Emissions of Criteria Air Pollutants and Hazardous Air Pollutants .........................3-22

3.2.2 Performance Emission Testing and State Inspection..................................................3-24

3.2.3 Production Rates/Hours of Operation..........................................................................3-25

3.2.4 Opacity Readings...............................................................................................................3-25

3.2.5 NPTEC and BEEF Reporting ........................................................................................3-25

3.2.6 Tactical Demilitarization Development (TaDD) Project Reporting .........................3-27

3.2.7 ODS Recordkeeping.........................................................................................................3-27

3.2.8 Asbestos Abatement .........................................................................................................3-27

3.2.9 Fugitive Dust Control.......................................................................................................3-28

3.2.10 Environmental Impact......................................................................................................3-28 
Table of Contents

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 xix

4.0 Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring ...............................................................................4-1

4.1 Radiological Surface Water and Groundwater Monitoring ........................................................4-1

4.1.1 Water Monitoring Locations .............................................................................................4-4

4.1.2 Water Sampling/Analysis Methods ..................................................................................4-4

4.1.3 Presentation of Water Sampling Data..............................................................................4-7

4.1.4 Results from Offsite Wells.................................................................................................4-7

4.1.5 Results from Offsite Springs ...........................................................................................4-12

4.1.6 Results from NTS Water Supply Wells..........................................................................4-14

4.1.7 Results from NTS Monitoring Wells..............................................................................4-17

4.1.8 Results from NTS E Tunnel Ponds ...............................................................................4-20

4.1.9 Results from NTS Sewage Lagoons ...............................................................................4-22

4.1.10 UGTA Wells ......................................................................................................................4-23

4.1.11 Environmental Impact......................................................................................................4-23

4.2 Nonradiological Drinking Water and Wastewater Monitoring................................................4-25

4.2.1 Drinking Water Monitoring.............................................................................................4-25

4.2.2 Domestic Wastewater Monitoring..................................................................................4-29

4.2.3 Industrial Wastewater Monitoring ..................................................................................4-31

4.2.3.2 Annual Analysis of Toxicity of Sewage Lagoon Pond Waters..................4-32

4.2.3.3 Sewage System Inspections.............................................................................4-32

5.0 Direct Radiation Monitoring.........................................................................................................................5-1 

5.1 Measurement of Direct Radiation ..................................................................................................5-1 

5.2 Thermoluminescent Dosimetry Surveillance Network Design .................................................5-2 

5.2.1 Data Quality .........................................................................................................................5-2 

5.2.2 Data Reporting ....................................................................................................................5-4 

5.3 Results.................................................................................................................................................5-4 

5.3.1 Potential Exposure to the Public along the NTS Boundary.........................................5-7 

5.3.2 Exposure Rates at RWMSs................................................................................................5-8 

5.3.3 Exposures from NTS Operational Activities................................................................5-10 

5.3.4 Exposure to NTS Plants and Animals ...........................................................................5-10 

5.3.5 Exposure Rate Patterns in the Environment over Time.............................................5-10 

5.4 Environmental Impact ...................................................................................................................5-11 

6.0 Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water...............................................................................6-1 

6.1 Offsite Air Monitoring.....................................................................................................................6-1 

6.1.1 Air Particulate Sampling Results .......................................................................................6-4 

6.1.1.1 Gross Alpha and Gross Beta............................................................................6-4 

6.1.1.2 Gamma Spectroscopy........................................................................................6-7 

6.1.2 TLD Results.........................................................................................................................6-7 

6.1.3 PIC Results...........................................................................................................................6-8 

6.1.4 Environmental Impact......................................................................................................6-10 

6.2 Offsite Surface and Groundwater Monitoring ...........................................................................6-11 

6.2.1 Sample Locations and Methods ......................................................................................6-11 

6.2.2 Procedures and Quality Assurance .................................................................................6-11 

6.2.3 Results of Surface Water and Spring Discharge Monitoring ......................................6-15 

6.2.4 Results of Groundwater Monitoring ..............................................................................6-15 

6.2.5 Environmental Impact......................................................................................................6-16 
Table of Contents

xx Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

7.0 Radiological Biota Monitoring......................................................................................................................7-1 

7.1 Species Selection ...............................................................................................................................7-1 

7.2 Site Selection and Description ........................................................................................................7-2 

7.3 Sampling Methods ............................................................................................................................7-4 

7.3.1 Plants.....................................................................................................................................7-4 

7.3.2 Animals .................................................................................................................................7-5 

7.4 Results.................................................................................................................................................7-5 

7.4.1 Plants.....................................................................................................................................7-5 

7.4.2 Animals .................................................................................................................................7-5 

7.5 Data Assessment.............................................................................................................................7-10 

8.0 Radiological Dose Assessment .....................................................................................................................8-1 

8.1 Radiological Dose to the Public......................................................................................................8-1 

8.1.1 Possible Exposure Pathways to the Public......................................................................8-1 

8.1.2 Dose to the Public from NTS Air Emissions.................................................................8-2 

8.1.3 Dose to the Public from Ingestion of Wild Game from the NTS...............................8-3 

8.1.4 Dose to the Public from Drinking Contaminated Groundwater.................................8-4 

8.1.5 Dose to the Public from Direct Radiation Exposure along NTS Borders.................8-4 

8.1.6 Dose to the Public from Release of Property Containing Residual 

Radioactive Material............................................................................................................8-4 

8.1.7 Total Offsite Dose to the Public from all Pathways......................................................8-5 

8.1.8 Collective Population Dose ...............................................................................................8-6 

8.2 Dose to Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota ...........................................................................................8-7 

8.2.1 2007 Site-Specific Biota Dose Assessment......................................................................8-7 

8.2.2 Environmental Impact........................................................................................................8-8 

9.0 Waste Management and Environmental Restoration ..................................................................................9-1 

9.1 Radioactive Waste Management.....................................................................................................9-1 

9.1.1 Maintenance of Key Documents ......................................................................................9-2 

9.1.2 Characterization of LLW and LLMW..............................................................................9-2 

9.1.3 Disposal of LLW and LLMW ...........................................................................................9-3 

9.1.4 TRU Waste Operations......................................................................................................9-4 

9.1.5 Assessments .........................................................................................................................9-4 

9.1.6 Groundwater Monitoring for Mixed Waste Disposal Unit (Pit P03U).......................9-4 

9.1.7 Vadose Zone Monitoring...................................................................................................9-5 

9.1.7.1 Area 3 RWMS Drainage Lysimeter Facility....................................................9-5 

9.1.7.2 Area 5 RWMS Weighing Lysimeter Facility...................................................9-5 

9.1.7.3 RWMS Waste Cover Automated Monitoring................................................9-6 

9.1.7.4 RWMS Supplemental Automated Monitoring...............................................9-6 

9.1.7.5 Gas-phase Tritium Monitoring ........................................................................9-6 

9.1.7.6 Radon Flux..........................................................................................................9-6

9.2 Hazardous Waste Management ......................................................................................................9-7 

9.2.1 Pit P03U................................................................................................................................9-7 

9.2.2 HWSU and Waste Accumulation Areas ..........................................................................9-7 

9.2.3 EODU ..................................................................................................................................9-7 

9.3 Underground Storage Tank (UST) Management.........................................................................9-8 

9.4 Environmental Restoration - Remediation of Historic Contaminated Sites............................9-8 

9.4.1 Corrective Actions...............................................................................................................9-8 

9.4.2 Post-Closure Monitoring and Inspections.......................................................................9-9 
Table of Contents

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 xxi

9.5 Solid and Sanitary Waste Management........................................................................................9-13 

9.5.1 Landfills ..............................................................................................................................9-13 

9.5.2 Sewage Lagoons.................................................................................................................9-13 

10.0 Hazardous Materials Control and Management ......................................................................................10-1 

10.1 TSCA Program................................................................................................................................10-1 

10.2 FIFRA Program ..............................................................................................................................10-2 

10.3 EPCRA Program.............................................................................................................................10-2 

10.4 Nevada Chemical Catastrophe Prevention Act..........................................................................10-3 

11.0 Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization ........................................................................................11-1 

11.1 P2/WM Goals and Components .................................................................................................11-1 

11.2 Major P2/WM Accomplishments and Awards..........................................................................11-2 

11.2.1 Accomplishments..............................................................................................................11-2 

11.2.2 Award-winning Accomplishments..................................................................................11-2 

11.3 Waste Reductions............................................................................................................................11-3 

12.0 Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources Management..................................................................12-1 

12.1 Cultural Resources Inventories, Historical Evaluations, and Associated Activities..............12-2 

12.1.1 Cultural Resources Inventories .......................................................................................12-2 

12.1.2 Evaluations of Historic Structures..................................................................................12-2

12.1.3 Associated Cultural Resources Activities.......................................................................12-3 

12.1.3.1 Adverse Effect Assessments and Mitigation Activities ..............................12-3 

12.1.3.2 General Reconnaissance/Archival Research ...............................................12-3 

12.1.3.3 Reports...............................................................................................................12-4 

12.2 Curation............................................................................................................................................12-4 

12.3 American Indian Program .............................................................................................................12-5 

13.0 Ecological Monitoring .................................................................................................................................13-1 

13.1 Desert Tortoise Compliance Program.........................................................................................13-1 

13.2 Biological Surveys at Proposed Project Sites ..............................................................................13-3 

13.3 Important Species and Habitat Monitoring ................................................................................13-8 

13.3.1 Sensitive Plants ..................................................................................................................13-8 

13.3.2 Important Animals............................................................................................................13-9 

13.3.2.1 Western Red-tailed Skink................................................................................13-9 

13.3.2.2 Western Burrowing Owl .................................................................................13-9 

13.3.2.3 Bird Monitoring and Mortality.......................................................................13-9 

13.3.2.4 State-Protected Small Mammals ................................................................. 13-11 

13.3.2.5 Sensitive Bats ................................................................................................. 13-11 

13.3.2.6 Wild Horses.................................................................................................... 13-11 

13.3.2.7 Mule Deer....................................................................................................... 13-12 

13.3.2.8 Mountain Lions ............................................................................................. 13-12 

13.3.3 Natural and Man-Made Water Sources....................................................................... 13-12 

13.3.4 West Nile Virus Surveillance ........................................................................................ 13-13 

13.4 Habitat Restoration Monitoring Program................................................................................ 13-13 

13.5 Wildland Fire Hazard Assessment............................................................................................. 13-13 

13.6 Biological Monitoring of the NPTEC Complex ..................................................................... 13-14 
Table of Contents

xxii Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

14.0 Underground Test Area Subproject...........................................................................................................14-1 

14.1 Subsurface Investigations ..............................................................................................................14-3 

14.2 Hydrogeologic Modeling and Supporting Studies .....................................................................14-3 

15.0 Hydrologic Resources Management Program..........................................................................................15-1 

15.1 Program Goals and Activities .......................................................................................................15-1 

15.1.1 Hydrology and Radionuclide Investigations for Operations ......................................15-1 

15.1.2 Long-Term Groundwater Stewardship..........................................................................15-2 

15.2 2007 HRMP Activities ...................................................................................................................15-2 

15.2.1 Well Monitoring.................................................................................................................15-2 

15.2.2 Groundwater Recharge and Withdrawal Modeling......................................................15-3 

15.2.3 Technology Development................................................................................................15-4 

15.2.4 National Laboratory Activities ........................................................................................15-4 

16.0 Meteorological Monitoring..........................................................................................................................16-1 

16.1 Meteorological Monitoring Goals ................................................................................................16-1 

16.2 MEDA Station Locations..............................................................................................................16-1 

16.3 MEDA Station Instrumentation...................................................................................................16-1 

16.4 Rain Gauge Network......................................................................................................................16-3 

16.5 Data Access......................................................................................................................................16-3 

17.0 Integrated Safety Management System and Environmental Management System.............................17-1 

17.1 Scope of Chapter.............................................................................................................................17-2 

17.2 Elements and Status of the NTS EMS ........................................................................................17-2 

17.2.1 NTS Environmental Policy..............................................................................................17-2 

17.2.2 Environmental Aspects ....................................................................................................17-2 

17.2.3 Legal and Other Requirements........................................................................................17-3

17.2.4 Objectives, Targets, and Programs .................................................................................17-3 

17.2.5 Resources, Roles, Responsibilities, and Authorities.....................................................17-7 

17.2.6 Competence, Training, and Awareness..........................................................................17-7 

17.2.7 Communication .................................................................................................................17-7 

17.2.8 Documentation.................................................................................................................17-7 

17.2.9 Control of Documents .....................................................................................................17-7 

17.2.10 Operational Control..........................................................................................................17-8 

17.2.11 Emergency Preparedness and Response........................................................................17-8 

17.2.12 Monitoring and Measurement .........................................................................................17-8

17.2.13 Evaluation of Compliance ...............................................................................................17-8 

17.2.14 Nonconformity and Corrective and Preventive Actions.............................................17-8 

17.2.15 Control of Records............................................................................................................17-8 

17.2.16 Internal Audit.....................................................................................................................17-9 

17.2.17 Management Review.........................................................................................................17-9 

18.0 Compliance Quality Assurance...................................................................................................................18-1

18.1 Sampling and Analysis Plan...........................................................................................................18-2

18.1.1 Precision .............................................................................................................................18-2

18.1.2 Accuracy .............................................................................................................................18-2

18.1.3 Representativeness ............................................................................................................18-2

18.1.4 Comparability.....................................................................................................................18-3
Table of Contents

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 xxiii

18.2 Environmental Sampling ...............................................................................................................18-3

18.2.1 Training and Qualification ...............................................................................................18-3

18.2.2 Procedures and Methods..................................................................................................18-3

18.2.3 Field Documentation........................................................................................................18-3

18.2.4 Inspection and Acceptance Testing................................................................................18-3

18.3 Laboratory Analyses .......................................................................................................................18-4

18.3.1 Procurement.......................................................................................................................18-4

18.3.2 Initial and Continuing Assessment .................................................................................18-4

18.3.3 Data Evaluation.................................................................................................................18-5

18.4 Data Review.....................................................................................................................................18-5

18.4.1 Data Verification ...............................................................................................................18-5

18.4.2 Data Validation..................................................................................................................18-5

18.4.3 Data Quality Assessment (DQA)....................................................................................18-6

18.5 Assessments.....................................................................................................................................18-6

18.5.1 Programmatic.....................................................................................................................18-6

18.5.2 Measurement Data ............................................................................................................18-6

18.5.2.1 Field Duplicates................................................................................................18-6

18.5.2.2 Laboratory Control Samples (LCSs) .............................................................18-8

18.5.2.3 Blank Analysis...................................................................................................18-8

18.5.2.4 Proficiency Testing Program Participation...................................................18-9

19.0 Oversight Quality Assurance Program for CEMP..................................................................................19-1 

19.1 Data Quality Objectives (DQOs).................................................................................................19-1 

19.2 Measurement Quality Objectives (MQOs) .................................................................................19-1

19.3 Sampling QA Program...................................................................................................................19-1 

19.4 Laboratory QA Oversight..............................................................................................................19-2 

19.4.1 Procurement.......................................................................................................................19-2 

19.4.2 Initial and Continuing Assessment .................................................................................19-2 

19.4.3 Laboratory QA Program..................................................................................................19-3 

19.5 Data Review.....................................................................................................................................19-3 

19.6 QA Program Assessments.............................................................................................................19-4 

19.7 2007 Sample QA Results ...............................................................................................................19-4 

19.7.1 Field Duplicates (Precision).............................................................................................19-4 

19.7.2 Laboratory Control Samples (Accuracy)........................................................................19-5 

19.7.3 Blank Analysis....................................................................................................................19-5 

19.7.4 Inter-laboratory Comparison Studies.............................................................................19-5 

Appendix A Offsite Facilities ...............................................................................................................................A-1 

Appendix B Glossary of Terms ...........................................................................................................................B-1 

Appendix C Acronyms and Abbreviations.........................................................................................................C-1 

References ....................................................................................................................................................................R-1 

Distribution List ......................................................................................................................................................... D-1 
Table of Contents

xxiv Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

List of Figures 

Figure 1-1 NTS vicinity map ............................................................................................................................. 1-2 

Figure 1-2 Major topographic features and calderas of the NTS................................................................. 1-3 

Figure 1-3 NTS operational areas, principal facilities, and past nuclear testing areas............................... 1-6 

Figure 1-4 NTS land-use map (Source: DOE, 1998) ................................................................................... 1-7 

Figure 1-5 Data plotted using a linear scale................................................................................................... 1-13 

Figure 1-6 Data plotted using a log scale....................................................................................................... 1-13 

Figure 3-1 Radiological air sampling network on the NTS in 2007 .............................................................3-3

Figure 3-2 Concentrations of 241Am in air samples collected in 2007..........................................................3-6 

Figure 3-3 Concentrations of 238Pu in air samples collected in 2007............................................................3-8 

Figure 3-4 Concentrations of 239+240Pu in air samples collected in 2007 ....................................................3-10 

Figure 3-5 Long-term trends in average annual mean 239+240Pu for NTS area groups .............................3-10 

Figure 3-6 Fitted average long-term trends in 239+240Pu geometric-mean values 

by NTS area groups........................................................................................................................3-11 

Figure 3-7 Concentrations of 3

H in air samples collected in 2007 and Pahute Mesa 

air temperature.................................................................................................................................3-14 

Figure 3-8 Concentrations of 3H in air samples collected in 2007 and Pahute Mesa precipitation.......3-14 

Figure 3-9 Average long-term trends in 3H at locations having at least 7 years of data ..........................3-15 

Figure 3-10 Tritium emissions at Schooner and June-September average temperatures 

at Pahute Mesa.................................................................................................................................3-15 

Figure 3-11 Gross alpha radioactivity in air samples collected in 2007........................................................3-17 

Figure 3-12 Gross beta radioactivity in air samples collected in 2007..........................................................3-18 

Figure 3-13 Criteria air pollutants and HAPs released on the NTS since 1997..........................................3-24 

Figure 4-1 Areas of potential groundwater contamination on the NTS..................................................... 4-2 

Figure 4-2 RREMP well monitoring locations sampled on and off the NTS in 2007.............................. 4-5 

Figure 4-3 RREMP spring and surface water monitoring locations sampled on and off 

the NTS in 2007............................................................................................................................... 4-6 

Figure 4-4 Gross beta levels in wells that are in and northwest of Oasis Valley from 2000 to 2007..... 4-9 

Figure 4-5 Gross beta levels in wells in areas west, southwest, and south of the NTS 

from 2000 to 2007 ........................................................................................................................... 4-9 

Figure 4-6 Gross alpha levels in wells that are in and northwest of Oasis Valley 

from 2000 to 2007 ......................................................................................................................... 4-10 

Figure 4-7 Gross alpha levels in wells in areas west, southwest, and south of the NTS 

from 2000 to 2007 ......................................................................................................................... 4-10 

Figure 4-8 Tritium levels in wells that are in and northwest of Oasis Valley from 2000 to 2007......... 4-11 

Figure 4-9 Tritium levels in wells in areas west, southwest, and south of the NTS 

from 2000 to 2007 ......................................................................................................................... 4-11 

Figure 4-10 Gross alpha levels in offsite springs from 2000 to 2007.......................................................... 4-12 

Figure 4-11 Gross beta levels in offsite springs from 2000 to 2007............................................................ 4-13 

Figure 4-12 Tritium concentrations in offsite springs from 2000 to 2007 ................................................. 4-13 

Figure 4-13 Gross alpha levels in NTS water supply wells from 2000 to 2007......................................... 4-16 

Figure 4-14 Gross beta levels in NTS water supply wells from 2000 to 2007........................................... 4-16 

Figure 4-15 Tritium concentration in NTS water supply wells from 2000 to 2007 .................................. 4-16 

Figure 4-16 Concentrations of tritium in wells with a history of detectable levels ................................... 4-19 

Figure 4-17 Tritium concentration in E Tunnel Ponds from 1995 to 2007............................................... 4-22 
Table of Contents

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 xxv

Figure 4-18 UGTA Subproject wells on and off the NTS............................................................................ 4-24 

Figure 4-19 Water supply wells and drinking water systems on the NTS .................................................. 4-26 

Figure 4-20 Active permitted sewage disposal systems on the NTS ........................................................... 4-30 

Figure 5-1 Location of TLDs on the NTS...................................................................................................... 5-3 

Figure 5-2 2007 annual exposure rates in and around Area 3 RWMS and at background locations ..... 5-9 

Figure 5-3 2007 annual exposure rates around Area 5 RWMS and at background locations ................. 5-9 

Figure 5-4 2007 annual exposure rates on the NTS by location type and off the 

NTS (CEMP stations) ................................................................................................................... 5-10 

Figure 5-5 Trend in direct radiation exposure measured at TLD locations............................................. 5-11 

Figure 6-1 2007 CEMP Air Surveillance Network..........................................................................................6-2 

Figure 6-2. CEMP station at Mesquite, Nevada...............................................................................................6-3 

Figure 6-3 Historical trend for gross alpha analysis for all CEMP stations.................................................6-5 

Figure 6-4 Historical trend for gross beta analysis for all CEMP stations...................................................6-6

Figure 6-5 Historical trend for TLD analysis for all CEMP stations ...........................................................6-8 

Figure 6-6 The effect of meteorological phenomena on background gamma readings..........................6-10 

Figure 6-7 2007 CEMP water monitoring locations.....................................................................................6-14 

Figure 7-1 Radiological biota monitoring sites on the NTS and sites sampled in 2007............................7-3 

Figure 7-2 Concentrations of man-made radionuclides in plants from E Tunnel 

Ponds, 1999 and 2007 ......................................................................................................................7-8 

Figure 7-3 Average 3

H in plants sampled at the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMS, 2002, 2005, and 2007........7-8 

Figure 7-4 Concentrations of man-made radionuclides in animals sampled from E Tunnel 

Ponds, 2000–2007.............................................................................................................................7-9 

Figure 7-5 3H in animals sampled at the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs, 2005 and 2007...............................7-9 

Figure 8-1 Comparison of radiation dose to the MEI from the NTS and natural 

background (percent of total)..........................................................................................................8-6 

Figure 8-2 Collective population dose within 80 km of NTS emission sources from 1992 to 2004.......8-6 

Figure 13-1 Desert tortoise distribution and abundance on the NTS..........................................................13-2

Figure 13-2 Location of biological surveys conducted on the NTS in 2007...............................................13-7 

Figure 13-3. Typical habitat of P. fruticiformis ssp. amargosae in the Striped Hills, Area 25 ...........................13-8 

Figure 13-4 Western red-tailed skink captured in 2006 at Twin Spring.......................................................13-9

Figure 13-5 8- to 10-day-old western burrowing owl chicks in culvert burrow on Pahute Mesa ............13-9 

Figure 13-6 Number of bird deaths recorded on the NTS by year and cause......................................... 13-10 

Figure 13-7 Mature male mountain lion at 19-01 Road in Area 19 ........................................................... 13-12 

Figure 13-8. Lactating female mountain lion on Back Mesa Road in Area 12 ......................................... 13-12 

Figure 14-1 Location of UGTA Subproject model areas...............................................................................14-2 

Figure 15-1 Annual withdrawals from the NTS, 1951 to present................................................................ 15-3 

Figure 16-1 Example of a typical MEDA station with a 10-meter tower................................................... 16-1 

Figure 16-2 MEDA station locations on and near the NTS......................................................................... 16-2 

Figure 16-3 Climatological rain gauge network on the NTS ........................................................................ 16-4 
Table of Contents

xxvi Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

List of Tables 

Table 1-1 Unit prefixes ..................................................................................................................................... 1-8 

Table 1-2 Units of radioactivity ....................................................................................................................... 1-9 

Table 1-3 Units of radiological dose ............................................................................................................... 1-9 

Table 1-4 Conversion table for SI units ......................................................................................................... 1-9 

Table 1-5 Radionuclides and their half-lives................................................................................................ 1-10 

Table 1-6 Metric and U.S. customary unit equivalents............................................................................... 1-11 

Table 2-1 NTS compliance status with applicable air quality regulations ..................................................2-4 

Table 2-2 NTS compliance status with applicable water quality and protection regulations ..................2-8 

Table 2-3 NTS compliance status with regulations for radiation protection of the public 

and the environment .......................................................................................................................2-12 

Table 2-4 NTS compliance status with applicable waste management and environmental 

restoration regulations....................................................................................................................2-16 

Table 2-5 NTS compliance status with applicable regulations for hazardous substance 

control and management ...............................................................................................................2-20 

Table 2-6 NTS NEPA compliance activities conducted in 2007 ..............................................................2-21 

Table 2-7 NTS compliance status with applicable P2/WM regulations...................................................2-23 

Table 2-8 NTS compliance status with historic preservation regulations................................................2-25 

Table 2-9 NTS compliance status with applicable biota and wildlife habitat regulations......................2-28 

Table 2-10 NTS compliance status with EMS regulations ...........................................................................2-29 

Table 2-11 Environmental occurrences in 2007 ............................................................................................2-31 

Table 2-12 Environmental permits required for NTS and NTS site facility operations..........................2-33 

Table 3-1 Regulatory concentration limits for radionuclides in air ............................................................ 3-4 

Table 3-2 Concentrations of 241Am in air samples collected in 2007......................................................... 3-6 

Table 3-3 Concentrations of 137Cs in air samples collected in 2007........................................................... 3-7 

Table 3-4 Concentrations of 238Pu in air samples collected in 2007........................................................... 3-8 

Table 3-5 Concentrations of 239+240Pu in air samples collected in 2007 ..................................................... 3-9 

Table 3-6 Concentrations of uranium isotopes in air samples collected in 2007................................... 3-11 

Table 3-7 Observed values of uranium isotope ratios in 2007 ................................................................. 3-12 

Table 3-8 Expected ratios of uranium isotopes by type of source........................................................... 3-12 

Table 3-9 Concentrations of 3

H in air samples collected in 2007............................................................. 3-13 

Table 3-10 Gross alpha radioactivity in air samples collected in 2007....................................................... 3-16 

Table 3-11 Gross beta radioactivity in air samples collected in 2007......................................................... 3-17 

Table 3-12 Sum of fractions of compliance levels for man-made radionuclides at 

critical receptor samplers .............................................................................................................. 3-18 

Table 3-13 Radiological atmospheric releases from NTS for 2007............................................................ 3-20 

Table 3-14 Tons of criteria air pollutant emissions released on the NTS from permitted 

facilities operational in 2007......................................................................................................... 3-23 

Table 3-15 Criteria air pollutants and HAPS released on the NTS since 1997 ........................................ 3-24 

Table 3-16 Chemicals released during tests conducted at the Area 5 NPTEC in 2007 .......................... 3-26 

Table 3-17 Chemicals released during tests conducted at the Test Cell C facility in 2007 ..................... 3-26 

Table 3-18 Types and weights of explosives detonated at BEEF in 2007 ................................................ 3-27 
Table of Contents

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 xxvii

Table 4-1 Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for offsite wells in 2007........................ 4-8 

Table 4-2 Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for offsite springs in 2007 .................. 4-12 

Table 4-3 Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for NTS water supply 

wells in 2007.................................................................................................................................... 4-14 

Table 4-4 Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for NTS monitoring wells in 2007.... 4-18 

Table 4-5 Radiological results for E Tunnel Pond effluent pertaining to Water Pollution 

Control Permit NEV 96021 ......................................................................................................... 4-20 

Table 4-6 Routine radiological water monitoring results for E-Tunnel Ponds in 2007........................ 4-21 

Table 4-7 Radiological results for sewage lagoon effluent pertaining to Water Pollution 

Control General Permit GNEV 93001 ...................................................................................... 4-22 

Table 4-8 Radiochemistry analysis results from UGTA well samples analyzed in 2007....................... 4-23 

Table 4-9 Monitoring parameters and sampling design for NTS PWSs and permitted 

water-hauling trucks....................................................................................................................... 4-27 

Table 4-10 Water quality analysis results for NTS PWSs and permitted water-hauling trucks.............. 4-28 

Table 4-11 Water quality analysis results for NTS sewage lagoon influent waters in 2007 .................... 4-31 

Table 4-12 Water toxicity analysis results for NTS sewage lagoon pond water in 2007......................... 4-32 

Table 5-1 Annual direct radiation exposure rates measured at TLD locations on the NTS in 2007.... 5-5 

Table 5-2 Summary statistics for 2007 annual direct radiation exposure by TLD location type........... 5-7 

Table 6-1 Gross alpha results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007............................................................ 6-4 

Table 6-2 Gross beta results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007.............................................................. 6-5 

Table 6-3 TLD monitoring results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007 ................................................... 6-7 

Table 6-4 PIC monitoring results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007 ..................................................... 6-9 

Table 6-5 Average natural background radiation for selected U.S. cities (excluding radon)................ 6-10 

Table 6-6 CEMP water monitoring locations sampled in 2007................................................................ 6-12 

Table 6-7 Tritium results for CEMP offsite surface water and spring discharges in 2007................... 6-15 

Table 6-8 Tritium results for CEMP offsite wells in 2007 ........................................................................ 6-16 

Table 7-1 Plant species sampled at E Tunnel Ponds, Area 3 RWMS, Area 5 RWMS, and 

control sites in 2007..........................................................................................................................7-4 

Table 7-2 Concentrations of man-made radionuclides in plants from E Tunnel, 

RWMS and associated control sites in 2007 .................................................................................7-6 

Table 7-3 Concentrations of man-made radionuclides in animals from E Tunnel, 

RWMS and RWMS control site in 2007........................................................................................7-7 

Table 8-1 Hypothetical dose to a human consuming NTS doves and pronghorn antelope 

based on 2007 samples.....................................................................................................................8-3 

Table 8-2 Allowable total residual surface contamination for property released off NTS......................8-4 

Table 8-3 Estimated radiological dose to a hypothetical maximally exposed member 

of the general public from 2007 NTS operations .......................................................................8-5 

Table 8-4 Site-specific dose assessment for terrestrial plants and animals sampled in 2007...................8-8 

Table 9-1 Key documents required for Area 3 RWMS and Area 5 RWMS operations.......................... 9-2 

Table 9-2 Results of groundwater monitoring of UE5 PW-1, UE5 PW-2, and UE PW-3 in 2007...... 9-4 

Table 9-3 Hazardous waste managed at the NTS in 2007........................................................................... 9-7 

Table 9-4 Environmental restoration activities conducted in 2007.......................................................... 9-10 

Table 9-5 Quantity of solid wastes disposed in NTS landfills in calendar year 2007 ............................ 9-13 
Table of Contents

xxviii Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 10-1 EPCRA compliance reporting at the NTS in 2007................................................................... 10-2

Table 10-2 EPCRA reportable releases of toxic chemicals in 2007 ........................................................... 10-3 

Table 11-1 Waste reduction activities in 2007 ................................................................................................11-3 

Table 11-2 Quantities of waste reduced through P2/WM activities by waste type and year ..................11-4 

Table 12-1 Summary data for cultural resources inventories and historical evaluations 

conducted in 2007.......................................................................................................................... 12-3 

Table 12-2 Reports prepared in 2007.............................................................................................................. 12-4 

Table 12-3 Culturally affiliated tribes and organizations in the CGTO..................................................... 12-6 

Table 13-1 Compliance limits and status for NTS operations in tortoise habitat.....................................13-3 

Table 13-2 Important plants known to occur on or adjacent to the NTS .................................................13-4 

Table 13-3 Important animals known to occur on or adjacent to the NTS ..............................................13-5 

Table 13-4 Records of bird mortality on the NTS in 2007........................................................................ 13-10 

Table 13-5 Number of individual horses observed on the NTS by age class, gender, and year.......... 13-11 

Table 14-1 UGTA Subproject publications completed in 2007..................................................................14-4 

Table 17-1 FY 2007 EMS objectives and targets.......................................................................................... 17-4 

Table 17-2 FY 2008 Proposed Objectives and Targets ............................................................................... 17-6 

Table 18-1 Summary of field duplicate samples for compliance monitoring in 2007 ............................. 18-7 

Table 18-2 Summary of LCSs for 2007 .......................................................................................................... 18-8 

Table 18-3 Summary of laboratory blank samples for 2007........................................................................ 18-9 

Table 18-4 Summary of 2007 radiological MAPEP reports...................................................................... 18-10 

Table 18-5 Summary of inter-laboratory comparison TLD samples for the subcontract .................... 18-10 

Table 19-1 Summary of field duplicate samples for oversight monitoring in 2007..................................19-4 

Table 19-2 Summary of laboratory control samples (LCS) for oversight...................................................19-5 

Table 19-3 Summary of laboratory blank samples for oversight monitoring in 2007..............................19-5 

Table 19-4 Summary of inter-laboratory comparison samples of the subcontract 

radiochemistry laboratory for oversight monitoring in 2007 ...................................................19-6 

Table 19-5 Summary of inter-laboratory comparison TLD samples of the subcontract 

dosimetry group for compliance monitoring in 2007................................................................19-6 
Introduction

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 1-1

1.0 Introduction and Helpful Information 

1.1 Site Location 

The U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) directs 

the management and operation of the Nevada Test Site (NTS) which is located in Nye County in south-central 

Nevada (Figure 1-1). The southeast corner of the NTS is about 88 kilometers (km) (55 miles [mi]) northwest of the 

center of Las Vegas in Clark County. By highway, it is about 105 km (65 mi) from the center of Las Vegas to 

Mercury. Mercury, located at the southern end of the NTS, is the main base camp for worker housing and 

administrative operations for the NTS. 

The NTS encompasses about 3,561 square kilometers (km2) (1,375 square miles [mi2]). It varies from 46 to 56 km 

(28 to 35 mi) in width from west to east and from 64 to 88 km (40 to 55 mi) from north to south. The NTS is 

surrounded on all sides by federal lands (Figure 1-1). It is bordered on the southwest corner by the Yucca Mountain 

Project Area, on the west and north by the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR), on the east by an area used by 

both the NTTR and the Desert National Wildlife Range, and on the south by Bureau of Land Management lands. 

The combination of the NTTR and the NTS represents one of the larger unpopulated land areas in the United States, 

comprising some 14,200 km2 (5,470 mi2). 

1.2 Environmental Setting 

The NTS is located in the southern part of the Great Basin, the northern-most sub-province of the Basin and Range 

Physiographic Province. The NTS terrain is typical of much of the Basin and Range Physiographic Province, 

characterized by generally north-south trending mountain ranges and intervening valleys. These mountain ranges and 

valleys, however, are modified on the NTS by very large volcanic calderas (Figure 1-2). 

The principal valleys within the NTS are Frenchman Flat, Yucca Flat, and Jackass Flats (Figure 1-2). Both Yucca and 

Frenchman Flat are topographically closed and contain dry lake beds, or playas, at their lowest elevations. Jackass 

Flats is topographically open, and surface water from this basin flows off the NTS via the Fortymile Wash. The 

dominant highlands of the NTS are Pahute Mesa and Rainier Mesa (high volcanic plateaus), Timber Mountain 

(a resurgent dome of the Timber Mountain caldera complex), and Shoshone Mountain. In general, the slopes of the 

highland areas are steep and dissected, and the slopes in the lowland areas are gentle and less eroded. The lowest 

elevation on the NTS is 823 meters (m) (2,700 feet [ft]) in Jackass Flats in the southeast, and the highest elevation is 

2,341 m (7,680 ft) on Rainier Mesa in the north-central region. 

The topography of the NTS has been altered by historic U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) actions, particularly 

underground nuclear testing. The principal effect of testing has been the creation of numerous collapse sinks 

(“craters”) in Yucca Flat basin and a lesser number of “craters” on Pahute and Rainier Mesas. Shallow detonations 

that created surface disruptions were also performed during Project Plowshare to determine the potential uses of 

nuclear devices for large-scale excavation. 

The reader is directed to Attachment A: Nevada Test Site Description, included as a separate file on the compact disc of 

this 2007 report, where the geology, hydrology, climatology, ecology, and cultural resources of the NTS are described. 
Introduction

1-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Figure 1-1. NTS vicinity map
Introduction

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 1-3

Figure 1-2. Major topographic features and calderas of the NTS 
Introduction

1-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

1.3 Site History 

The history of the NTS, as well as its current missions, directs the focus and design of the environmental monitoring 

and surveillance activities on and near the site. Between 1940 and 1950, the area now known as the NTS was under 

the jurisdiction of Nellis Air Force Base and was part of the Nellis Bombing and Gunnery Range. The NTS was 

established in 1950 to be the primary location for testing the nation’s nuclear explosive devices and supported nuclear 

testing from 1951 to 1992. The NTS currently conducts only subcritical nuclear experiments. Fact sheets on many of 

the historical tests and projects mentioned below can be found at <http://www.nv.doe.gov/library/factsheets.aspx>. 

Atmospheric Tests - Tests conducted through the 1950s were predominantly atmospheric tests. These tests 

involved a nuclear explosive device detonated while on the ground surface, on a steel tower, suspended from tethered 

balloons, dropped from an aircraft, or placed on a rocket. Several tests were categorized as “safety experiments” and 

“storage-transportation tests,” involving the destruction of a nuclear device with non-nuclear explosives. Some of 

these tests resulted in the dispersion of plutonium in the test vicinity. One of these test areas lies just north of the 

NTS boundary at the south end of the NTTR, and four others involving storage-transportation tests are at the north 

end of the NTTR. These test areas have been monitored for radionuclides in the past (1996–2000) in support of 

remediation projects, two of which were completed. The three remaining sites will be monitored again once 

restoration of these sites begins. All nuclear device tests are listed in United States Nuclear Tests, July 1945 through 

September 1992 (DOE, 2000a). 

Underground Tests - The first underground test, a cratering test, was conducted in 1951. The first totally contained 

underground test was in 1957. Testing was discontinued during a bilateral moratorium that began October 31, 1958, 

but was resumed in September 1961 after the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics resumed nuclear testing. After late 

1962, nearly all tests were conducted in sealed vertical shafts drilled into Yucca Flat and Pahute Mesa or in horizontal 

tunnels mined into Rainier Mesa. From 1951 to 1992, a total of 828 underground nuclear tests was conducted at the 

NTS. Approximately one-third of these tests was detonated near or below the water table; this has resulted in the 

contamination of groundwater in some areas. In 1996, DOE, U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), and the State of 

Nevada entered into a Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order, which established Corrective Action Units on 

the NTS that delineated and defined areas of concern for groundwater contamination. 

Cratering Tests - Five earth-cratering (shallow-burial) tests were conducted over the period of 1962 through 1968 as 

part of the Plowshare Program that explored peaceful uses of nuclear explosives. The first and highest yield 

Plowshare crater test, Sedan (U.S. Public Health Service, 1963), was detonated at the northern end of Yucca Flat on 

the NTS. The second-highest yield crater test was Schooner, located in the northwest corner of the NTS. From these 

tests, mixed fission products, tritium, and plutonium were entrained in the soil ejected from the craters and deposited 

on the ground surrounding the craters. 

Other Tests - Other nuclear-related experiments at the NTS have included the BREN (Bare Reactor Experiment - 

Nevada) series in the early 1960s conducted in Area 4. These tests were performed with a 14-million electron volt 

neutron generator mounted on a 465-m (1,527-ft) steel tower to produce neutron and gamma radiation for the 

purpose of estimating the radiation doses received by survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The tower was moved in 

1966 to Area 25 and used for conducting Operation HENRE (High-Energy Neutron Reactions Experiment), jointly 

funded by the DoD and the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) to provide information for the AEC’s Division of 

Biology and Medicine. From 1959 through 1973, a series of open-air nuclear reactor, nuclear engine, and nuclear 

furnace tests were conducted in Area 25, and a series of tests with a nuclear ramjet engine were conducted in Area 26. 

Erosion of metal cladding on the reactor fuel released some fuel particles that caused negligible deposition of 

radionuclides on the ground. Most of the radiation released from these tests was gaseous in the form of radio-iodines, 

radio-xenons, and radio-kryptons. 

1.4 Site Mission 

NNSA/NSO directs the management and operation of the NTS and seven sites across the nation. Los Alamos 

National Laboratory, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and Sandia National Laboratories are the principal 
Introduction

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 1-5

organizations that sponsor and implement the nuclear weapons programs at the NTS. National Security 

Technologies, LLC, is the current Management and Operating (M&O) contractor accountable for the successful 

execution of work and ensuring that work is performed in compliance with environmental regulations. The seven 

sites include the North Las Vegas Facility (NLVF), Cheyenne Las Vegas Facility (CLVF), Remote Sensing Laboratory 

(RSL)–Nellis, RSL–Andrews, Livermore Operations, Los Alamos Operations, and Special Technologies Laboratory. 

These sites all provide support to enhance the NTS as a site for weapons experimentation and nuclear test readiness. 

This report addresses environmental monitoring and compliance only at the NTS and the three Nevada: NLVF, 

CLVF, and RSL-Nellis (see Appendix A). The three major NTS missions include National Security, Environmental 

Management, and Stewardship of the NTS. The programs which support these missions include Stockpile 

Stewardship, Homeland Security, Test Readiness, Environmental Restoration, Waste Management, and Facilities and 

Infrastructure. 

1.5 Primary Operations and Activities 

NTS activities in 2007 continued to be diverse, with the primary role being to help ensure that the existing U.S. 

stockpile of nuclear weapons remains safe and reliable. Facilities that support this national security mission include 

the U1a Facility, Big Explosives Experimental Facility, Device Assembly Facility, and Joint Actinide Shock Physics 

Experimental Research (JASPER) Facility (Figure 1-3). Facilities that support the Homeland Security program 

include the new Radiological/Nuclear Countermeasures Test and Evaluation Complex (Rad/NucCTEC) (Figure 1-3), 

which was expected to be operational in October 2006, but is currently on hold. Facilities that support the Waste 

Management Program include the Area 5 Radioactive Waste Management Complex (RWMC) and the Area 3 

Radioactive Waste Management Site (RWMS) (Figure 1-3). Other NTS activities include demilitarization activities; 

controlled spills of hazardous material at the Non-Proliferation Test and Evaluation Complex (NPTEC) (Figure 1-3); 

remediation of industrial sites; processing of waste destined for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in Carlsbad, New 

Mexico, or the Idaho National Laboratory in Idaho Falls, Idaho; disposal of radioactive and mixed waste; and 

environmental research. Land use by each of the NTS missions occurs within zones designated by the land-use map 

shown in Figure 1-4. It is the resultant Record of Decision land-use map for the 1996 programmatic NTS 

Environmental Impact Statement (DOE, 1996a), as depicted in the NTS Resource Management Plan (DOE, 1998). 

NTS Missions and Programs 

National Security 

Stockpile Stewardship Program – Conducts high-hazard operations in support of defense-related nuclear and 

national security experiments. 

Homeland Security Program – Provides support facilities, training facilities, and capabilities for government 

agencies involved in counterterrorism activities, emergency response, first responders, national security technology 

development, and nonproliferation technology development. 

Test Readiness Program – Maintains the capability to resume underground nuclear weapons testing, if directed. 

Environmental Management 

Environmental Restoration Program – Characterizes and remediates the environmental legacy of nuclear weapons 

and other testing at the NTS and at offsite locations, and develops and deploys technologies that enhance 

environmental restoration. 

Waste Management – Manages and safely disposes of low-level waste received from DOE- and DoD-approved 

facilities throughout the U.S. and mixed low-level waste generated in Nevada by NNSA/NSO, and safely manages 

and characterizes hazardous and transuranic wastes for offsite disposal. 

Stewardship of the NTS 

Facilities and Infrastructure – Maintains the buildings, roads, utilities, and facilities required to support all NTS 

programs and to provide a safe environment for NTS workers. 
Introduction

1-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Figure 1-3. NTS operational areas, principal facilities, and past nuclear testing areas 
Introduction

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 1-7

Figure 1-4. NTS land-use map (Source: DOE, 1998) 
Introduction

1-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

1.6 Populations Near the NTS 

The population of the area surrounding the NTS (see Figure 1-1) is predominantly rural. The population estimates 

for Nevada communities have been estimated by the Nevada State Demographer’s Office up through July 1, 2007 

(Hardcastle, 2008). The annual population estimate for Nevada counties, cities, and unincorporated towns is 

2,718,337, with all but 764,018 residing in Clark County. The total population estimate for Nye County is 46,308 and 

includes the communities of Amargosa (1,503), Beatty (1,059), Gabbs (322), Manhattan (140), Pahrump (37,928), 

Round Mountain (831), and Tonopah (2,610). The largest of the Nye County communities is Pahrump, which is 

approximately 80 km (50 mi) south of the NTS Control Point facility located near the center of the NTS. 

Neighboring Lincoln County to the east of the NTS includes a few small communities including Alamo (427), 

Caliente (1,089), Panaca (595), and Pioche (791). Neighboring Clark County is the major population center of Nevada 

and has an estimated total population of 1,954,319. Mesquite, on the northwest border of Arizona, has an estimated 

population of 18,787. 

The Mojave Desert of California, which includes Death Valley National Park, lies along the southwestern border of 

Nevada. This area is still predominantly rural; however, tourism at Death Valley National Park swells the population 

to more than 5,000 on any particular day during holiday periods when the weather is mild. 

The extreme southwestern region of Utah is more developed than the adjacent portion of Nevada. The population 

estimates for Utah communities are based on projections for the year 2005 by the Utah Population Estimates 

Committee (2008) of the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget. The largest community is St. George, located 

220 km (137 mi) east of the NTS, with a population of 65,968. The next largest town, Cedar City, is located 280 km 

(174 mi) east-northeast of the NTS and has a population of 25,056. 

The extreme northwestern region of Arizona is mostly rangeland, except for that portion in the Lake Mead recreation 

area. In addition, several small communities lie along the Colorado River. The largest towns in the area are Bullhead 

City, 165 km (103 mi) south-southeast of the NTS, with an estimated population of 41,000, and Kingman, located 

280 km (174 mi) southeast of the NTS, with an estimated population of 28,635 ( July 1, 2007, population estimates 

[Arizona Workforce Informer, 2008]). 

1.7 Understanding Data in this Report

1.7.1 Scientific Notation 

Scientific notation is used in this report to express very large or very small numbers. A very small number is 

expressed with a negative exponent, for example 2.0 x 10-5. To convert this number from scientific notation to a 

more traditional number, the decimal point must be moved left by the number of places equal to the exponent (5 in 

this case). The number thus becomes 0.00002. 

Very large numbers are expressed in scientific notation with a positive exponent. The decimal point should be moved 

to the right by the number of places equal to the exponent. 

The number 1,000,000,000 could be presented in scientific 

notation as 1.0 x 109. 

1.7.2 Unit Prefixes 

Units for very small and very large numbers are commonly 

expressed with a prefix. The prefix signifies the amount of the 

given unit. For example, the prefix k, or kilo-, means 1,000 of a 

given unit. Thus 1 kg (kilogram) is 1,000 g (grams). Other 

prefixes used in this report are listed in Table 1-1. 

Table 1-1. Unit prefixes 

Prefix Abbreviation Meaning 

mega- M 1,000,000 (1 x 106) 

kilo- k 1,000 (1 x 103) 

centi- c 0.01 (1 x 10-2) 

milli- m 0.001 (1 x 10-3) 

micro- μ 0.000001 (1 x 10 -6) 

nano- n 0.000,000,1 (1 x 10-9) 

pico- p 0.000,000,000,0001 (1 x 10-12) 
Introduction

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 1-9

1.7.3 Units of Radioactivity 

Much of this report deals with levels of radioactivity in various 

environmental media. The basic unit of radioactivity used in this report is 

the curie (Ci) (Table 1-2). The curie describes the amount of radioactivity 

present, and amounts are usually expressed in terms of fractions of curies in 

a given mass or volume (e.g., picocuries per liter). The curie is historically 

defined as the rate of nuclear disintegrations that occur in 1 g of the 

radionuclide radium-226, which is 37 billion nuclear disintegrations per 

second. For any other radionuclide, 1 Ci is the quantity of the radionuclide 

that decays at this same rate. Nuclear disintegrations produce spontaneous 

emissions of alpha or beta particles, gamma radiation, or combinations of 

these. 

1.7.4 Radiological Dose Units 

The amount of ionizing radiation energy absorbed by a living organism 

is expressed in terms of radiological dose. Radiological dose in this 

report is usually written in terms of effective dose equivalent and 

reported numerically in units of millirem (mrem) (Table 1-3). 

Millirem is a term that relates ionizing radiation to biological effect or 

risk to humans. A dose of 1 mrem has a biological effect similar to the 

dose received from an approximate 1-day exposure to natural 

background radiation. An acute (short-term) dose of 100,000 to 

400,000 mrem can cause radiation sickness in humans. An acute dose 

of 400,000 to 500,000 mrem, if left untreated, results in death 

approximately 50 percent of the time. Exposure to lower amounts of 

radiation (1,000 mrem or less) produces no immediate observable 

effects, but long-term (delayed) effects are possible. The average person in the United States receives an annual dose 

of approximately 300 mrem from exposure to naturally produced radiation. Medical and dental X-rays, air travel, and 

tobacco smoking add to this total. 

The unit “rad,” for radiation absorbed dose, is also used in this report. The rad is a measure of the energy absorbed 

by any material, whereas a “rem,” for roentgen equivalent man, relates to both the amount of radiation energy 

absorbed by humans and its consequence. A roentgen (R) is a measure of radiation exposure. Generally speaking, 

1 R of exposure will result in an effective dose equivalent of 1 rem. Additional information on radiation and dose 

terminology can be found in the Glossary (Appendix B). 

1.7.5 International System of Units for Radioactivity and Dose 

In some instances in this report, radioactivity and radiological 

dose values are expressed in other units in addition to Ci and 

mrem. These units are the becquerel (Bq) and the millisievert 

(mSv), respectively. The Bq and Sv belong to the International 

System of Units (SI), and their inclusion in this report is 

mandated by DOE. SI units are the internationally accepted 

units and may eventually be the standard for reporting both 

radioactivity and radiation dose in the United States. One Bq is 

equivalent to one nuclear disintegration per second. 

The unit of radiation absorbed dose (rad) has a corresponding 

SI unit called the gray (Gy). The roentgen measure of radiation 

exposure has no SI equivalent. Table 1-4 provides the 

multiplication factors for converting to and from SI units. 

Table 1-2. Units of radioactivity

Symbol Name 

Ci curie 

cpm counts per minute 

mCi millicurie (1 x 10-3 Ci) 

μCi microcurie (1 x 10-6 Ci) 

nCi nanocurie (1 x 10-9 Ci) 

pCi picocurie (1 x 10-12 Ci) 

aCi attocurie (1 x 10-18 Ci) 

Table 1-3. Units of radiological dose 

Symbol Name 

mrad millirad (1 x 10-3 rad) 

mrem millirem (1 x 10-3 rem) 

R roentgen 

mR milliroentgen (1 x 10-3 R) 

μR microroentgen (1 x 10-6 R) 

Table 1-4. Conversion table for SI units 

To Convert 

From To Multiply 

By 

becquerel (Bq) picocurie (pCi) 27 

curie (Ci) becquerel (Bq) 3.7 x 1010 

gray (Gy) rad 100 

mrem msievert (mSv) 0.01 

msievert (mSv) mrem 100 

picocurie (pCi) becquerel (Bq) 0.03704 

rad gray (Gy) 0.01 

sievert (Sv) rem 100 
Introduction

1-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

1.7.6 Radionuclide Nomenclature 

Radionuclides are frequently expressed with the one- or two-letter 

chemical symbol for the element. Radionuclides may have many 

different isotopes, which are shown by a superscript to the left of the 

symbol. This number is the atomic weight of the isotope (the number 

of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of the atom). Radionuclide 

symbols, many of which are used in this report, are shown in Table 1-5 

along with the half-life of each radionuclide. The half-life is the time 

required for one-half of the radioactive atoms in a given amount of 

material to decay. For example, after one half-life, half of the original 

atoms will have decayed; after two half-lives, three-fourths of the 

original atoms will have decayed; and after three half-lives, seveneighths of the original atoms will have decayed, and so on. The 

notation 236+238Ra and similar notations in this report (e.g., 239+240Pu) 

are used when the analytical method does not distinguish between the 

isotopes, but reports the total amount of both. 

1.7.7 Units of Measurement 

Both metric and non-metric units of measurement are used in this 

report. Metric system and U.S. customary units and their respective 

equivalents are shown in Table 1-6 on the following page. 

1.7.8 Measurement Variability 

There is always uncertainty associated with the measurement of 

environmental contaminants. For radioactivity, a major source of 

uncertainty is the inherent randomness of radioactive decay events. 

Uncertainty in analytical measurements is also the consequence of 

variability related to collecting and analyzing the samples. This 

variability is associated with reading or recording the result, handling 

or processing the sample, calibrating the counting instrument, and 

numerical rounding. 

The uncertainty of a measurement is denoted by following the result 

with an uncertainty value which is preceded by the plus-or-minus 

symbol, ±. This uncertainty value gives information on what the 

measurement might be if the same sample were analyzed again under 

identical conditions. The uncertainty value implies that approximately 

95 percent of the time the average of many measurements would give a 

value somewhere between the reported value minus the uncertainty 

value and the reported value plus the uncertainty value. 

If the reported concentration of a given constituent is smaller than its 

associated uncertainty (e.g., 40 ± 200), the sample may not contain that 

constituent. Such low concentration values are considered to be below 

detection, meaning the concentration of the constituent in the sample 

is so low that it is undetected by the method and/or instrument.

Table 1-5. Radionuclides and their half-

 lives 

Symbol Radionuclide Half-Life (a)

241Am americium-241 432.2 yr 

7Be beryllium-7 53.44 d 

14C carbon-14 5,730 yr 

134Cs cesium-134 2.1 yr 

137Cs cesium-137 30 yr 

51Cr chromium-51 27.7 d 

60Co cobalt-60 5.3 yr 

152Eu europium-152 13.3 yr 

154Eu europium-154 8.8 yr 

155Eu europium-155 5 yr 

3H tritium 12.35 yr 

129I iodine-129 1.6 x 107 yr 

131I iodine-131 8 d 

40K potassium-40 1.3 x 108yr 

85Kr krypton-85 107 yr 

212Pb lead-212 10.6 hr 

238Pu plutonium-238 87.7 hr 

239Pu plutonium-239 2.4 x 104 yr 

240Pu plutonium-240 6.5 x 103 yr 

241Pu plutonium-241 14.4 yr 

226Ra radium-226 1.62 x 103 yr 

228Ra radium-228 5.75 yr 

220Rn radon-220 56 s 

222Rn radon-222 3.8 d 

103Ru ruthenum-103 39.3 d 

106Ru ruthenum-106 368.2 d 

125Sb antimony-125 2.8 yr 

113Sn tin-113 115 d 

90Sr strontium-90 29.1 yr 

99Tc technetium-99 2.1 x 105 yr 

232Th thorium-232 1.4 x 1010 yr 

U (b) uranium total - - - (c)

234U uranium-234 2.4 x 105 yr 

235U uranium-235 7 x 108 hr 

238U uranium-238 4.5 x 109 yr 

65Zn zinc-65 243.9 d 

95Zr zirconium-95 63.98 d 

(a) From Shleien, 1992 

(b) Total uranium may also be indicated by 

 U-natural (U-nat) or U-mass 

(c) Natural uranium is a mixture dominated by 238U,

 thus the half-life is approximately 4.5 x 109 years

 
Introduction

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 1-11

 Table 1-6. Metric and U.S. customary unit equivalents 

1.7.9 Mean and Standard Deviation 

The mean of a set of data is the usual average of those data. The standard deviation (SD) of sample data relates to the 

variation around the mean of a set of individual sample results; it is defined as the square root of the average squared 

difference of individual data values from the mean. This variation includes both measurement variability and actual 

variation between monitoring periods (weeks, months, or quarters, depending on the particular analysis). The sample 

mean and standard deviation are estimates of the average and the variability that would be seen in a large number of 

repeated measurements. If the distribution shape were “normal” (i.e., shaped as ), about 67 percent of the 

measurements would be within the mean ± SD and 95 percent would be within the mean ± 2 SD. 

1.7.10 Standard Error of the Mean 

Just as individual values are accompanied by counting uncertainties, mean values (averages) are accompanied by 

uncertainty. The standard deviation of the distribution of sample mean values is known as the standard error of the 

mean (SE). The SE conveys how accurate an estimate the mean value is based on the samples that were collected and 

analyzed. The ± value presented to the right of a mean value is equal to 2 x SE (2 multiplied by the SE). The ± value 

implies that approximately 95 percent of the time the average of many calculated means will fall somewhere between 

the reported value minus the 2 x SE value and the reported value plus the 2 x SE value. 

Metric Unit 

U.S. Customary 

Equivalent Unit U.S. Customary Unit Metric Equivalent Unit 

Length 

 1 centimeter (cm) 0.39 inches (in.) 1 inch (in.) 2.54 centimeters (cm) 

 1 millimeter (mm) 0.039 inches (in.) 25.4 millimeters (mm) 

 1 meter (m) 3.28 feet (ft) 1 foot (ft) 0.3048 meters (m) 

1.09 yards (yd) 1 yard (yd) 0.9144 meters (m) 

1 kilometer (km) 0.62 miles (mi) 1 mile (mi) 1.6093 kilometers (km) 

Volume 

 1 liter (L) 0.26 gallons (gal) 1 gallon (gal) 3.7853 liters (L) 

 1 cubic meter (m3) 35.32 cubic feet (ft3) 1 cubic foot (ft3) 0.028 cubic meters (m3) 

1.35 cubic yards (yd3) 1 cubic yard (yd3) 0.765 cubic meters (m3) 

Weight 

 1 gram (g) 0.035 ounces (oz) 1 ounce (oz) 28.6 gram (g) 

 1 kilogram (kg) 2.21 pounds (lb) 1 pound (lb) 0.373 kilograms (kg) 

 1 metric ton (mton) 1.10 short ton (2,000 lb) 1 short ton (2,000 lb) 0.90718 metric ton (mton) 

Geographic area 

 1 hectare 2.47 acres 1 acre 0.40 hectares 

Radioactivity 

 1 becquerel (Bq) 2.7 x 10–11 curie (Ci) 1 curie (Ci) 3.7 x 10–10 becquerel (Bq) 

Radiation dose 

 1 rem 0.01 sievert (Sv) 1 sievert (Sv) 100 rem 

Temperature 

 °C = (°F – 32)/1.8 °F = (°C x 1.8) + 32 
Introduction

1-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

1.7.11 Median, Maximum, and Minimum Values 

Median, maximum, and minimum values are reported in some sections of this report. A median value is the middle 

value when all the values are arranged in order of increasing or decreasing magnitude. For example, the median value 

in the series of numbers, 1 2 3 3 4 5 5 5 6, is 4. The maximum value would be 6 and the minimum value would be 1. 

1.7.12 Less Than (<) Symbol 

The “less than” (<) symbol is used to indicate that the measured value is smaller than the number given. For 

example, <0.09 would indicate that the measured value is less than 0.09. In this report, < is often used in reporting 

the amounts of nonradiological contaminants in a sample when the measured amounts are less than the analytical 

laboratory’s reporting limit for that contaminant in that sample. For example, if a measurement of benzene in sewage 

lagoon pond water is reported as <0.005 milligrams per liter, this implies that the measured amount of benzene 

present, if any, was not found to be above this level given the sample and analysis methods used. For some 

constituents the notation “ND” is also used to indicate that the constituent in question was not detected. For organic 

constituents, in particular, this could mean that the compound could not be clearly identified, the level (if any) was 

lower than the reporting limit, or (as often happens) both. The measurements of radionuclide concentrations are 

reported whether or not they are below the usual reporting limit (the minimum detectable concentration [see 

Glossary, Appendix B]). 

1.7.13 Negative Radionuclide Concentrations 

There is always a small amount of natural radiation in the environment. The instruments used in the laboratory to 

measure radioactivity in environmental media are sensitive enough to measure the natural, or background, radiation 

along with any contaminant radiation in a sample. To obtain an unbiased measure of the contaminant level in a 

sample, the natural, or background, radiation level must be subtracted from the total amount of radioactivity 

measured by an instrument. Because of the randomness of radioactive emissions and the very low concentrations of 

some contaminants, it is possible to obtain a background measurement that is larger than the actual contaminant 

measurement. When the larger background measurement is subtracted from the smaller contaminant measurement, a 

negative result is generated. The negative results are reported because they are useful when conducting statistical 

evaluations of the data. 

1.7.14 Understanding Graphic Information 

Some of the data graphed in this report are plotted using logarithmic (log) scales. Log scales are used in plots where 

the values are of widely different magnitudes at different locations and/or different times. Log scales use equal 

distances to represent equal ratios of values, whereas in linear scales equal distances represent equal differences in values. 

For example, a log scale would use the same distance to represent a change from 2 to 4 as a change from 10 to 20 or a 

change from 700 to 1,400. 

For example, Figure 1-5 is the same as Figure 3-9 in Chapter 3, which shows long-term trends in annual tritium (3H) 

concentrations in air samples at locations with extended histories, using the original scale. In order to allow the 

Schooner data to be represented on the same plot as the data from the other stations with lower concentrations, the 

Schooner data are divided by 10 and the reference line is one percent of the compliance level (CL) (see Glossary, 

Appendix B). The alternate presentation in Figure 1-6 uses a log scale, which allows all stations to be represented at 

their actual measured values and the actual CL to be included. 

 
Introduction

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 1-13

Figure 1-5. Data plotted using a linear scale 

 Figure 1-6. Data plotted using a log scale 

3

H Annual Mean Long-Term Trends

All Locations With at Least 7-Year Histories Since 1989

Data before 1999 adjusted

0

10

20

30

40

50

1988 1993 1998 2003 2008 2013

Year

x 10-6 pCi/mL

Area 1

Area 5

Areas 6-9-10-12

Areas 15-16-18

Schooner * 0.1

Areas 23-25

1% of CL

3

H Annual Mean Long-Term Trends

All Locations With at Least 7-Year Histories Since 1989

Data before 1999 adjusted

0.1

1

10

100

1000

10000

1988 1993 1998 2003 2008 2013

Year

x 10-6 pCi/mL

Area 1

Area 5

Areas 6-9-10-12

Areas 15-16-18

Schooner

Areas 23-25

CL
Introduction

1-14 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-1 

2.0 Compliance Summary 

Environmental regulations pertinent to operations on the Nevada Test Site (NTS) and at the North Las Vegas Facility 

[NLVF], Cheyenne Las Vegas Facility, and Remote Sensing Laboratory [RSL]-Nellis) are listed in this Compliance 

Summary. They include federal and state laws, state permit requirements, Executive Orders (EOs), U.S. Department 

of Energy (DOE) orders, and state agreements. They dictate how the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear 

Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) conducts operations on and off the NTS to ensure the 

protection of the environment and the public. The regulations are grouped by topic. A compliance status table is 

presented for each topical group of regulations. Each table lists those measures or actions which are tracked or 

performed annually to ensure compliance with a regulation. A description of the field monitoring efforts, actions, and 

results which support the data in each table can be found in subsequent sections of this document, as noted in the 

“Reference Section” column of each table. Noncompliance incidents or compliance issues, if any, are included in the 

topical subsections along with a listing of compliance reports generated during or for the reporting year. The last 

table presented in this section is a list of all environmental permits for the NTS and the three Las Vegas area facilities 

for 2007. 

2.1 Air Quality 

Clean Air Act (CAA), National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) – Under 

Title III of the CAA, NESHAP was established to control those pollutants that might reasonably be anticipated to 

result in either an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible or incapacitating but reversible illness. 

Industry-wide national emissions standards were developed for 22 of the 189 designated hazardous air pollutants 

(HAPs). Radionuclides and asbestos were among the 22 HAPs for which standards were established. NESHAP 

compliance activities at the three offsite facilities are limited to radionuclide monitoring and reporting and notification 

of asbestos abatement. 

CAA, National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) – Title I of the CAA established the NAAQS to limit 

levels of pollutants in the air for six “criteria” pollutants: sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, ozone, 

lead, and particulate matter. Title V of the CAA authorizes the states to implement permit programs in order to 

regulate emissions of the criteria pollutants. At the NTS there is one main permit that regulates operations and 

emissions from aggregate-producing facilities, fuel-burning equipment, fuel storage, project-specific activities 

associated with the Non-Proliferation Test and Evaluation Complex (NPTEC), Test Cell C Facility, and the Tactical 

Demilitarization Development Project. Detonations conducted at the Big Explosives Experimental Facility (BEEF) 

and the Explosives Ordnance Disposal Unit (EODU) are also included in the permit. Nevada air quality permits 

specify emission limits for criteria pollutants (except ozone and lead) that are based on published emissions values for 

other similar industries and on operational data specific to the NTS. Lead is considered a HAP as well as a criteria 

pollutant, and emissions of lead are reported as part of the total HAPs emissions. Quantities of NAAQS and HAPS 

emissions from operations at the NTS are calculated and submitted each year to the State of Nevada. The NTS air 

permit also specifies recordkeeping and reporting requirements, performance testing requirements, visible emissions 

(opacity) limits for equipment or facilities, opacity field monitoring requirements, particulate monitoring requirements, 

and certification requirements for personnel conducting opacity monitoring. 

State of Nevada regulations prohibit the open burning of combustible refuse and other materials unless specifically 

exempted by an authorized variance (Nevada Administrative Code [NAC] 445B.22067). At the NTS, Open Burn 

Variances are routinely obtained for fire extinguisher training, support vehicle live-fire training, and various emergency 

management exercises. 

The three offsite facilities discussed in Appendix A operate under air quality permits that require the annual reporting 

of hours of operation, emissions quantities of criteria pollutants and HAPs, and summaries of significant malfunctions 

and repairs. 
Compliance Summary

2-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

CAA, New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) – The NSPS were established by Title I of the CAA to set 

minimum nationwide emission limitations of regulated air pollutants (HAPs and criteria pollutants mentioned above) 

and for various industrial categories of facilities. The State of Nevada has adopted the NSPS and regulates emissions 

from subject facilities through state law (Nevada Revised Statutes [NRS] 445B as codified in NAC 445B). At the 

NTS, some of the screens and conveyor belts that were manufactured after August 1981 are subject to NSPS under 

the category of Nonmetallic Mineral Processing Plants. Some of the bulk fuel storage tanks constructed after July 

1984 must also comply with NSPS requirements. The NSPS impose more stringent standards, including a reduced 

allowance of visible emissions (opacity) than under NAAQS. NSPS compliance activities on the NTS are reported to 

the State of Nevada. No offsite facilities are subject to the NSPS regulations. 

CAA, Stratospheric Ozone Protection – Title VI (Section 608) of the CAA establishes production limits and a 

schedule for the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). ODS are defined as those substances that are 

known or could reasonably be anticipated to cause or contribute to stratospheric ozone depletion. Under Section 608, 

the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established regulations through 40 Code of Federal Regulations 

(CFR) Part 82 that include (1) maximizing recycling of ozone-depleting compounds during servicing and disposal of 

air conditioning and refrigeration equipment; (2) establishing requirements for recycling and recovery equipment, 

technicians, and reclaimers; (3) requiring the repair of substantial leaks in certain air conditioning and refrigeration 

equipment; and (4) establishing safe disposal requirements. While there are no reporting requirements for ODS, 

recordkeeping to document the usage of ODS and technician certification is required. Under Section 608, the EPA 

may conduct random inspections to determine compliance. 

At the NTS, refrigerants containing ODS are mainly used in air conditioning units in vehicles, buildings, refrigerators, 

drinking water fountains, vending machines, and laboratory equipment. Halon 1211 and 1301, now classified as 

ODS, have been used in the past in fire extinguishers. Self-assessments are conducted periodically to document 

adherence to Title VI of the CAA.

Other NTS Air Quality Permit Requirements – Under Title V, Part 70 of the CAA amendments, all owners or 

operators of Part 70 sources must pay annual fees to the State of Nevada. Any source that has the potential to emit 

45.4 metric tons (mtons) (50 tons) or more of any regulated air pollutant, except carbon monoxide, must pay an 

annual fee of $3,000. Any source that has the potential to emit less than 22.7 mtons (25 tons) per year of any 

regulated air pollutant, except carbon monoxide, must pay an annual fee of $250. NTS operations are subject to these 

fees for the emission of criteria pollutants. In addition to permit fees, NNSA/NSO must allow the State of Nevada 

Bureau of Air Pollution Control to conduct inspections of NTS facilities and operations that are regulated by state air 

quality permits. 

Section VII of the NTS Class II Air Quality Operating Permit, No. AP9711-0549.01 (Surface Area Disturbance 

Conditions) requires implementation of an ongoing program to control fugitive dust using the best practicable methods. 

2.1.1 Compliance Issues

In May 2007, the air monitor at the NPTEC used to measure particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in 

diameter (PM10) failed during one chemical release test. The NTS air permit requires PM10 to be measured during 

each chemical release, or test. The malfunction was reported to the NNSA/NSO and to the Nevada Bureau of Air 

Pollution Control. A new PM10 monitor was purchased and installed to prevent the malfunction from recurring. 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-3 

2.1.2 Compliance Reports 

The following reports were generated for 2007 NTS operations in compliance with air quality regulations: 

• National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants, Calendar Year 2007 (submitted to EPA Region IX) 

• Annual Asbestos Abatement Notification Form, submitted to EPA Region IX 

• Calendar Year 2007 Actual Production/Emissions Reporting Form, submitted to the Nevada Division of Environmental 

Protection 

• Quarterly Class II Air Quality Reports, submitted to the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection 

• NPTEC Pre-test and Post-test Reports, submitted to the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection 

The following reports were generated for 2007 operations at the three offsite facilities in compliance with air quality 

regulations: 

• Clark County Air Emission Inventory for North Las Vegas Facility, submitted to the Clark County Department of Air 

Quality and Environmental Management 

• Clark County Air Emissions Inventory for Remote Sensing Laboratory, submitted to the Clark County Department of Air 

Quality and Environmental Management 

2.1.3 Compliance Status 

See Table 2-1 for a summary of how NNSA/NSO complied with air quality regulations at the three offsite facilities in 

2007. 
2-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

Table 2-1. NTS compliance status with applicable air quality regulations Compliance Measure/Actions Compliance Limit 2007 Complian

Clean Air Act – NESHAP Annual dose equivalent from all radioactive air emissions 10 mrem/yr (b) (0.1 mSv/yr) Complia

2.0 mrem/yr (0.0

Notify EPA Region IX if the number of linear feet (ft) or square feet (ft2) of 

asbestos to be removed from a facility exceeds limit 

260 linear ft or 160 ft2 (c) Complia

Maintain asbestos abatement plans, data records, activity/ maintenance records For up to 75 years Complia

Clean Air Act – NAAQS 

Submit quarterly reports of calculated emissions at the NTS to the state Due 30 days after end of 

quarter 

Complia

Submit annual report of calculated emissions at the NTS to the state Due March 1 Complia

Submitted Februa

Number of gallons of fuel used, hours of operation, and rate of aggregate/concrete production by permitted equipment/facility at the NTS 

Limit varies (d) Complia

Tons of emissions of each criteria pollutant produced by permitted equipment/facility at the NTS based on calculations 

PTE (e) varies Complia

Conduct and pass performance emission tests on permitted equipment Test after 100 hours of 

operation, emission limits vary 

Complia

Conduct opacity readings from permitted equipment/facility Quarterly CompliaConduct particulate monitoring for NPTEC and BEEF releases/detonations Per test Noncompl

NPTEC PM10 mo

during one 

Percent opacity of emissions from permitted equipment/facility at the NTS 20% Complia

0–15% 

Submit test plans/final analysis reports for each chemical release test at NPTEC or elsewhere and submit annual report of all chemicals released during the year to the state 

Annual report due March 1 Complia

Submitted Februa

Submit annual report of calculated emissions at the NLVF and the RSL-Nellis to Clark County 

Due March 31 Complia

Tons of emissions of each criteria pollutant produced by permitted equipment/facility at the NTS based on calculations 

PTE (e) varies Complia
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-5

Table 2-1. NTS compliance status with applicable air quality regulations (continued) 

Compliance Measure/Actions Compliance Limit 2007 Complianc

Clean Air Act - NSPS 

Conduct opacity readings from permitted equipment/facility Quarterly ComplianPercent opacity of emissions from permitted equipment/facility 10% Complian

No permitted equip

Clean Air Act - Stratospheric Ozone Protection  Maintain ODS technician certification records, approvals for ODS-containing 

equipment recycling/recovery, and applicable equipment servicing records 

NA(f) Complian

Other Nevada Air Quality Permit Regulations

Control fugitive dust for land disturbing activities NA ComplianAllow Nevada Bureau of Air Pollution Control access to conduct inspections of facilities and operations regulated by state air permits 

NA Complian

 (a) The section(s) within this document that describe how compliance summary data were collected (b) mrem/yr = millirem per year; mSv/yr = millisievert per year (c) 260 linear ft or 160 ft2 = 79.3 linear meters (m) or 14.9 m2

(d) Compliance limit is specific for each piece of permitted equipment/facility 

 (e) Potential to emit (PTE) = the quantities of criteria pollutants that each facility/piece of equipment would emit annually if it were operated for the maxim

 in the state air permit  (f) Not applicable 
Compliance Summary

2-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

2.2 Water Quality and Protection 

Clean Water Act (CWA) – Prohibits the discharge of pollutants from point sources to waters of the U.S. without a 

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The CWA also gives the EPA, or the approved 

state environmental control agency, the authority to implement pollution control programs. The CWA sets water 

quality standards for all contaminants in surface waters. At the NTS, CWA regulations are followed through 

compliance with permits issued by the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) for wastewater 

discharges and disposal of wastewater from facilities. NTS operations do not require any NPDES permits. A 

permanent NPDES permit was issued to NNSA/NSO in November 2006 for the discharge of pumped groundwater 

at the NLVF (see Section A.1.1.2, Appendix A). 

Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) – Protects the quality of drinking water in the United States. It authorizes the 

EPA to establish safe standards of purity and requires all owners or operators of public water systems to comply with 

National Primary Drinking Water Standards (health-related standards). State governments, which assume this power 

from the EPA, also set Secondary Standards which are related to taste, odor, and visual aspects of drinking water. 

Nevada state law pertaining to public water systems (NAC 445A) ensures that such water systems meet the EPA 

water quality standards specified under the SDWA. 

NAC 445A - Water Controls (Public Water Systems) – Enforces the SDWA requirements and sets standards for 

permitting, design, construction, operation, maintenance, certification of operators, and water quality of public water 

systems (PWSs). The NTS has three PWSs and two potable water hauler trucks which NDEP regulates through the 

issuance of permits. Although the SDWA sets drinking water standards for radionuclides, the State of Nevada does 

not require radionuclide monitoring of drinking water on the NTS because the NTS does not have a “community 

water system” (i.e., a PWS having at least 15 service connections and used by year-round residents). However, all 

potable water supply wells are monitored on the NTS for radionuclides in compliance with DOE Order 5400.5, 

Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment (see Section 2.3). 

NAC 444 and 445A - Water Controls (Water Pollution Control) – Regulates the collection, treatment, and disposal 

of wastewater and sewage at the NTS. The requirements of this state regulation are issued in permits for E Tunnel 

effluent waters, sewage lagoons, septic tanks, and septic hauler contractors and pumpers. Perched groundwater which 

seeps out of E Tunnel in Area 12 is contained and monitored annually for radiological contaminants and quarterly for 

nonradiological contaminants as required under an NDEP permit issued to the Defense Threat Reduction Agency. 

NNSA/NSO holds a general permit issued by NDEP covering two active and nine inactive sewage lagoon systems. 

Water quality and toxicity of the active sewage lagoons are monitored quarterly and annually, respectively, to meet 

permit requirements. The 23 septic systems on the NTS each process less than 5,000 gallons per day (gal/d) 

(18,927 liters/day), therefore they are not regulated by NDEP. The Bureau of Federal Facilities (BFF) regulates the 

NTS septic systems as commercial individual systems which treat domestic sewage only in quantities less than 

5,000 gal/d. The BFF does not require collection or analysis of sewage samples from these septic systems. The BFF 

also regulates the permits that NNSA/NSO holds for five septic tank pumpers and one septic tank pumping 

contractor’s license. 

NAC 534 - Nevada Division of Water Resources Regulations for Water Well and Related Drilling – Regulates 

the drilling and construction of new wells and the reworking of existing wells in order to prevent the wasting of 

underground waters and their pollution or contamination. Two site operations that are affected by this state 

regulation are the Underground Test Area (UGTA) Subproject and the Borehole Management Project. New water 

wells are drilled for ongoing UGTA investigations of site-specific hydrogeologic characteristics, underground source 

terms, and contaminant movement through groundwater. Over 1,100 existing boreholes on the NTS are being 

plugged according to these regulations, under the Borehole Management Project. 

UGTA Fluid Management Plan - UGTA Subproject wells are regulated by the state through an agreement between 

NNSA/NSO and the NDEP called the UGTA Fluid Management Plan. The plan is followed in lieu of following 

separate state-issued water pollution control permits for each UGTA characterization well. Such permits ensure 

compliance with the CWA. The plan prescribes the methods of disposing groundwater pumped from UGTA wells 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-7

during drilling, development, and testing based on the levels of radiological contamination. This plan is Attachment I 

of the UGTA Subproject Waste Management Plan (DOE, 2002a) 

2.2.1 Compliance Issues 

All drinking water and wastewater samples in 2007 had values below the regulatory water quality standard limits with 

two exceptions: (1) the limit of one positive coliform bacteria sample per month per PWS was met but not exceeded 

for the Area 25 PWS and for Water Truck 84846 (see Section 4.2.1), and (2) one 5-day biological oxygen demand 

(BOD5) Mean Daily Load was exceeded at the Area 23 Mercury Sewage lagoons during the fourth quarter (see 

Section 4.2.3.1). 

2.2.2 Compliance Reports 

The following reports were generated for NTS operations in 2007 in compliance with water quality regulations: 

• Quarterly Monitoring Report for Nevada Test Site Sewage Lagoons submitted to NDEP (in compliance with permit 

GNEV93001) 

• Results of water quality analyses for PWS were sent to the State throughout the year as they were obtained from 

the laboratory 

• Water Pollution Control Permit NEV 96021, Quarterly Monitoring Report (for E Tunnel effluent monitoring) submitted 

to NDEP 

• Water Pollution Control Permit NEV 96021, Quarterly Monitoring Report and Annual Summary Report for E Tunnel Waste 

Water Disposal System (DTRA, 2007) 

The following reports were generated for operations at the three offsite facilities in 2007 in compliance with water 

quality regulations: 

• Self-Monitoring Report for the National Nuclear Security Administration’s North Las Vegas Facility: Permit VEH-112 

submitted to the City of North Las Vegas 

• Quarterly reports titled Remote Sensing Laboratory Self Monitoring Report - Permit No. CCWRD-080 submitted to the 

Clark County Water Reclamation District 

• Two monitoring reports titled Remote Sensing Laboratory Additional Monitoring Reports - Permit No. CCWRD-080

submitted to Clark County Water Reclamation District 

2.2.3 Compliance Status 

See Table 2-2 for a summary of how NNSA/NSO complied with water quality and protection regulations at the NTS 

and the offsite facilities in 2007. 
2-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

Table 2-2. NTS compliance status with applicable water quality and protection regulations Compliance Measure/Action Compliance Limit 2007 Compliance Status 

Safe Drinking Water Act and Nevada Water Controls (NAC 445A - Water Controls - Public Water Systems) Number of water samples containing coliform bacteria 1 per month per 

PWS 

Compliant 

Present in 1 sample in Novemb

and 1 sample in February 

Concentration of Inorganic Phase II and V contaminants in Area 23 & 6 PWS Limit varies Compliant Concentration of Volatile Organic Phase I, II, and V contaminants in Area 23 & 6 PWS and Area 25 PWS. 

Limit varies Compliant 

Adhere to design, construction, maintenance, and operation regulations specified by permits 

NA(d) Compliant 

Allow NDEP access to conduct inspections of PWS and water hauling trucks 

NA Compliant 

Clean Water Act - NPDES/State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permits 

Measure and report volume of pumped groundwater discharged at the 

NLVF 

NA Compliant 

Clean Water Act and Nevada Water Pollution Controls - Sewage Disposal (NAC 444 – Sewage Disposal) 

Adhere to all design/construction/operation requirements for new systems and those specified in 23 septic system permits, 5 septic tank pumper permits, and 1 septic tank pumping contractor permit 

NA Compliant 

Clean Water Act and Nevada Water Pollution Controls (NAC 445A - Water Pollution Controls) 

 Value of 5-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5), total suspended 

 solids (TSS), and pH in one sewage lagoon water sample sampled quarterly

BOD5: varies 

TSS: no limit 

pH: 6.0–9.0 S.U.

Noncompliant 

BOD5 Mean Daily Load lim

exceeded in 4th quarter at Ar

23 Mercury Lagoon 

Concentration of 36 contaminants in the filtrate from one sewage lagoon sample collected annually from each of two permitted facilities 

Limit varies Compliant 

Inspection by operator of active sewage lagoon systems Weekly Compliant Inspection by operator of inactive sewage lagoon systems Quarterly Compliant 
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-9 

Table 2-2. NTS compliance status with applicable water quality and protection regulations (continued) 

Compliance Measure/Action Compliance Limit 2007 Compliance St

Clean Water Act and Nevada Water Pollution Controls (NAC 445A - Water Pollution Controls) (continued)

Submit quarterly monitoring reports for 2 active sewage lagoons (for Areas 6 and 23) 

Due end of January, 

April, July, and October 

Compliant 

Allow NDEP access to conduct inspections of active sewage lagoon systems NA Compliant Concentrations of tritium (3H), gross alpha (

α), and gross beta (β), (in 

picocuries per liter [pCi/L]), and 16 nonradiological contaminants/water quality parameters in E Tunnel effluent water samples collected quarterly 

3H: 1,000,000 pCi/L 

α: 35 pCi/L 

β: 100 pCi/L 

Non-rad: Limit varies

Compliant 

Concentrations of 18 contaminants in water samples from three NLVF sewage outfalls and all sludge and liquid samples from the NLVF sand/oil interceptor 

Limit varies Compliant 

Concentrations of 12 contaminants in water samples from sewage outfall at the RSL-Nellis 

Limit varies Compliant 

NAC 534 - Nevada Division of Water Resources Regulations for Water Well and Related Drilling and UGTA Fluid Management Plan 

Maintain state well-drilling license for personnel supervising well construction/reconditioning 

NA Compliant 

For UGTA well drilling fluids, monitor tritium (in pCi/L) and lead levels (in milligrams per liter [mg/L]), manage the fluids, and notify NDEP as required based on the decision criteria limits in the UGTA Fluid Management Plan 

Decision Criteria Limits: 

3H > 200,000 pCi/L, 

Lead > 5 mg/L 

Compliant 

File notices of intent and affidavits of responsibility for plugging NA Compliant Adhere to well construction requirements/waivers NA Compliant 

108 boreholes plugged 

Borehole Management P

Maintain required records and submit required reports NA Compliant 

Annual borehole plug

report for 108 boreho

submitted to Nevada Di

of Water Resource

(a) The section(s) within this document that describe how compliance summary data were collected (b) Not detectable (c) Compliance limit is specific for each contaminant; see referenced tables for specific limits (d) Not applicable 
Compliance Summary

2-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

2.3 Radiation Dose Protection 

Clean Air Act (CAA), National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) – NESHAP 

(40 CFR 61 Subpart H) establishes a radiation dose limit of 10 millirem per year (mrem/yr) (0.1 millisievert per year 

[mSv/yr]) to individuals in the general public from the air pathway. Sources of radioactive air emissions on the NTS 

include (1) evaporation of tritiated water (HTO) from containment ponds; (2) diffusion of HTO vapor from the soil 

at Area 5 Radioactive Waste Management Complex, Sedan crater, and Schooner crater; (3) release of tritium gas 

during calibration of analytical equipment at Building 650 in Area 23; and (4) resuspension of plutonium and 

americium from contaminated soil at nuclear device safety test and atmospheric test locations. NESHAP also 

specifies “Concentration Levels for Environmental Compliance” (abbreviated as compliance levels [CLs]) for 

radionuclides. A CL is the annual average concentration of a radionuclide that could deliver a dose of 10 mrem/yr. 

The CLs are provided for facilities which use air sampling at offsite receptor locations to demonstrate compliance. 

Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) – The National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 141), promulgated 

by the SDWA, requires that the maximum contaminate level goal for any radionuclide be zero. But, when this is not 

possible (e.g., in groundwater containing naturally occurring radionuclides), the SDWA specifies that the 

concentration of one or more radionuclides should not result in a whole body or organ dose greater than 4 mrem/yr 

(0.04 mSv/yr). Sources of radionuclide contamination in groundwater at the NTS are the underground nuclear tests 

detonated near or below the water table. 

DOE Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program – Requires federal facilities to (1) conduct environmental 

monitoring to detect, characterize, and respond to releases from DOE activities, (2) assess impacts, (3) estimate 

dispersal patterns in the environment, (4) characterize the pathways of exposure to members of the public, (5) 

characterize the exposures and doses to individuals and to the population, and (6) evaluate the potential impacts to the 

biota in the vicinity of a DOE activity. Such releases, exposures, and doses apply to radiological contaminants. 

DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment – This order and its flow-down 

procedural standards establishes requirements for (1) measuring radioactivity in the environment, (2) applying the 

ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) process to all operations, (3) using mathematical models for estimating 

radiation doses, (4) releasing property having residual radioactive material, and (5) maintaining records demonstrating 

compliance with the requirements. This order sets a radiation dose limit of 100 mrem/yr (1 mSv/yr) above background levels to individuals in the general public from all pathways of exposure combined. It also provides the 

Derived Concentration Guides (DCGs) for all radionuclides. The DCGs are the annual average concentrations of a 

radionuclide that could deliver a dose of 100 mrem/yr. The DCGs are provided as reference values to use in 

radiological protection programs at DOE facilities. The NESHAP CLs mentioned above are more conservative than 

one-tenth of the DCGs because they are computed with different dose models. 

DOE Standard DOE-STD-1153-2002, A Graded Approach for Evaluating Radiation Doses to Aquatic and 

Terrestrial Biota – Provides methods, computer models, and guidance in implementing a graded approach to 

evaluating the radiation doses to populations of aquatic animals, terrestrial plants, and terrestrial animals residing on 

DOE facilities (DOE, 2002b), A dose limit of 1 rad per day (rad/d) (10 milligray [mGy]/d) for terrestrial plants and 

aquatic animals, and of 0.1 rad/d (1 mGy/d) for terrestrial animals is specified by this DOE standard. Dose rates 

below these levels are believed to cause no measurable adverse effects to populations of plants and animals. 

DOE Order 435.1, Radioactive Waste Management – Ensures that all DOE radioactive waste is managed in a 

manner that is protective of the worker, public health and safety, and the environment. It directs how radioactive 

waste management operations are conducted on the NTS. These requirements are summarized in Section 2.4. The 

manual for this order (DOE M 435.1-1) specifies that operations at the Area 3 and Area 5 Radioactive Waste 

Management Sites (RWMSs) must not contribute a dose to the general public in excess of 25 mrem/yr. 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-11 

2.3.1 Compliance Issues 

In September of 2007, it was discovered that a piece of heavy equipment that contained radioactive material slightly 

above the unrestricted release criteria of DOE Order 5400.5 (see Section 8.1.6) had been offsite earlier in the year. 

The equipment was a rented shear machine used for the demolition of structures. It had been used in a designated 

Contamination Area on the NTS. It was decontaminated after use, surveyed for radiological contamination, and then 

returned in March to the vendor. The release survey indicated that the total fixed and removable residual 

contamination found on the machine was below the DOE offsite release limits and below U.S. Department of 

Transportation [DOT] allowable limits for the transportation of radiological materials. The equipment was stored 

unused at the vendor’s equipment yard for 112 days until it was needed at the NTS for another demolition project in 

July. The machine was then used in non-contaminated areas of the NTS. When a radiological survey was performed 

again in preparation of its return to the vendor, the total fixed and removable maximum contamination level for betagamma emitters was 24,000 disintegrations per minute per 100 square centimeters (dpm/100 cm2). This is above the 

DOE offsite release limit of 15,000 dpm/100 cm2 for beta-gamma emitters (see Table 8-2, Section 8.1.6). The 

contamination level, however, was still below DOT regulatory limits. Based on subsequent investigations, it is 

assumed that some inaccessible areas of the equipment contained small quantities of radioactive materials that were 

not detectable during the radiological survey performed prior to its release offsite. During its second use at the NTS, 

the radioactive materials worked their way to the surface where they became detectable during another radiological 

survey of the equipment. NSTec is upgrading their process for release of materials and equipment to prevent the 

occurrence of similar events in the future. The estimated maximum dose to a member of the public from exposure to 

the machine was computed in order to identify this incident as a potential pathway of exposure to the public in 2007 

(see Section 8.1.6). 

2.3.2 Compliance Reports 

In compliance with NESHAP under the CAA, the report National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants, 

Calendar Year 2007, was submitted to EPA Region IX in June 2008. This Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 was 

generated to report 2007 compliance with DOE Order 5400.5 and DOE-STD-1153-2002. 

2.3.3 Compliance Status 

Table 2-3 presents a summary of how NNSA/NSO complied with radiation protection regulations at the NTS and 

the three offsite facilities in 2007. 
Compliance Summary

2-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

Table 2-3. NTS compliance status with regulations for radiation protection of the public and the environment

Compliance Measure Compliance Limit 

2007 Compliance 

Status 

Section 

Reference(a)

 Clean Air Act - NESHAP 

 Annual dose to the general public from all 

radioactive air emissions 

10 mrem/yr Compliant 

1.9 mrem/yr 

3.1.5 

 Safe Drinking Water Act 

 Annual dose to the general public from drinking 

water 

4 mrem/yr Compliant(b) 4.1.4; 

Table 4-1 

 DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public 

and the Environment

 

 Annual dose above background levels to the 

general public from all pathways 

100 mrem/yr Compliant 

2.19 mrem/yr 

from NTS; 

0.00006 mrem/yr 

from NLVF 

8.1.7; Table 8-3; 

A.1.5; Table A-5 

 Total residual surface contamination of property 

released offsite (in disintegrations per minute per 

100 square centimeters [dpm/100 cm2]) 

300–15,000 dpm/100 cm2 

depending on the 

radionuclide 

Noncompliant 

Shear machine had 

24,000 dpm/100 cm2

2.3.1; 8.1.6 

DOE STD 1153-2002, A Graded Approach for Evaluating Radiation Doses to Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota  

 Absorbed radiation dose to terrestrial plants 1 rad/d Compliant 8.2 

 Absorbed radiation dose to aquatic animals 1 rad/d Compliant 8.2 

 Absorbed radiation dose to terrestrial animals 0.1 rad/d Compliant 8.2 

DOE Order 435.1, Radioactive Waste Management 

 Annual dose to the general public due to RWMS 

operations 

25 mrem/yr Compliant(c ) 5.3.2 

DOE Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program 

Conduct radiological environmental monitoring NA(d) Compliant 3.1; 4.1; 5.0; 

6.0; 7.0 

Detect and characterize radiological releases NA Compliant 3.1; Table 3-13; 

4.1; 5.0; 6.0 

 Characterize pathways of exposure to the public NA Compliant 8.1.1 

 Characterize exposures and doses to individuals, 

the population, and biota 

NA Compliant 8.1; 8.2 

(a) The section(s) within this document that describe how compliance summary data were collected. 

(b) Migration of radioactivity in groundwater to offsite wells has never been detected. 

(c) Nearest populations to the Area 3 and 5 RWMSs are Amargosa Valley (55 kilometers [km] away) and 

Cactus Springs (36 km away), respectively. They are too distant to receive any radiation exposure from 

operations at the sites. 

(d) Not applicable. 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-13 

2.4 Radioactive and Nonradioactive Waste Management and 

Environmental Restoration 

10 CFR 830: Nuclear Safety Management – Establishes requirements for the safe management of work at DOE’s 

nuclear facilities. It governs the possession and use of special nuclear and byproduct materials. Part 830 also covers 

activities at facilities where no nuclear material is present such as facilities that prepare the non-nuclear components of 

nuclear weapons, but which could cause radiological damage at a later time. It governs the conduct of the 

“management and operating contractor and other persons at DOE nuclear facilities” (including visitors to the facility). 

When coupled with the Price-Anderson Amendments Act (PAAA) of 1988 (Section 234A to the Atomic Energy 

Act), it provides DOE with authority to assess civil penalties for violation of rules, regulations, or orders relating to 

nuclear safety by contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers who are indemnified under PAAA. 

DOE Order 435.1, Radioactive Waste Management – Ensures that all DOE radioactive waste is managed in a 

manner that is protective of the worker, public health and safety, and the environment. Activities conducted on the 

NTS subject to this order include (1) characterization of low-level radioactive waste (LLW) and low-level mixed 

radioactive waste (LLMW) generated by DOE within the State of Nevada; (2) disposal of LLW and LLMW at the 

Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs; (3) characterization, visual examination, and repackaging of transuranic (TRU) waste at 

the Waste Examination Facility south of the Area 5 RWMS; and (4) loading of TRU waste at the Area 5 RWMS for 

shipment to Idaho National Environmental Engineering Laboratory. 

Atomic Energy Act (AEA) of 1954 (42 U.S.C. Sect. 2011 et seq.) – Ensures the proper management of source, 

special nuclear, and byproduct material. At the NTS, AEA regulations are followed through compliance with DOE 

Order 435.1 and 10 CFR 830. 

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) - 40 CFR Parts 239–282 – RCRA is the nation’s primary law 

governing the management of solid and hazardous waste (see Glossary, Appendix B). RCRA regulates the storage, 

transportation, treatment, and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes to prevent contaminants from leaching into the 

environment from landfills, underground storage tanks (USTs), surface impoundments, and hazardous waste disposal 

facilities. 40 CFR Parts 239–259 contain the regulations for solid waste, Parts 260–279 contain the hazardous waste 

regulations, and Parts 280–282 contain the regulations for USTs. The EPA authorizes the State of Nevada to 

administer and enforce RCRA regulations (see NACs below). 

RCRA also requires generators of hazardous wastes to have a program in place to reduce the volume or quantity and 

toxicity of hazardous wastes generated. These requirements and NTS compliance with them are addressed under the 

Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization sections of this report (Section 2.7, Section 11.0). 

Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA)/Superfund 

Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) – Provides a framework for the cleanup of waste sites containing 

hazardous substances and an emergency response program in the event of a release of a hazardous substance to the 

environment. No hazardous waste cleanup operations on the NTS are regulated under CERCLA; they are regulated 

under RCRA instead. The only applicable requirements of CERCLA pertain to an emergency response program for 

hazardous substance releases (see Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act in Section 2.5). 

Federal Facility Compliance Act (FFCA) – Extends the full range of enforcement authorities in federal, state, and 

local laws for management of HWs to federal facilities. The FFCA of 1992, signed by NNSA/NSO and the State of 

Nevada, requires the identification of existing quantities for MW, the proposal of methods and technologies of mixed 

waste treatment and management, the creation of enforceable timetables, and the tracking and completion of 

deadlines. 

Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order (FFACO), as amended (February 2008) – Pursuant to Section 

120(a)(4) of CERCLA and to Sections 6001 and 3004(u) of RCRA, the DOE, U.S. Department of Defense, and the 

State of Nevada entered into a FFACO in May 1996. It addresses the environmental restoration of historically 
Compliance Summary

2-14 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

contaminated sites at the NTS, parts of Tonopah Test Range, parts of the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR), 

the Central Nevada Test Area, and the Project SHOAL Area. Under the FFACO, hundreds of sites have been 

identified for cleanup and closure. An individual site is called a Corrective Action Site (CAS). Multiple CASs are 

often grouped into Corrective Action Units (CAUs).

Settlement Agreement for Mixed Transuranic Waste – This agreement between NNSA/NSO and the State of 

Nevada requires NNSA/NSO to operate the Area 5 TRU Storage Pad in accordance with 40 CFR 264 Subpart I. 

Mixed TRU is stored in compliance with RCRA requirements and weekly inspections are conducted. 

Mutual Consent Agreement – This agreement between NNSA/NSO and the State of Nevada covers the storage 

and management of MW on the NTS that was generated or identified after March 1996. It requires NNSA/NSO to 

develop and submit specific treatment and disposal plans for MW within nine months of identification. 

NAC 444.850–444.8746 - Disposal of Hazardous Waste – Regulates the operation of hazardous waste disposal 

facilities on the NTS to comply with federal RCRA regulations. Through this NAC, a RCRA Part B Permit has been 

issued (NEV HW0021) which regulates the operation of the Hazardous Waste Storage Unit (HWSU) in Area 5, the 

EODU in Area 11, and authorizes resumption of disposal in the Pit 3 Mixed Waste Disposal Unit (P03U) for LLMW 

received from DOE offsite facilities through November 2010 or until a total of 20,000 cubic meters is received, 

whichever occurs first. P03U is managed under 40 CFR Part 265, Interim Status Standards for Owners and Operators of 

Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage, and Disposal, which requires groundwater monitoring to verify the performance of 

waste disposal facilities. The state permit therefore requires groundwater monitoring of three wells down-gradient of 

P03U. Annual groundwater sampling results are reported to NDEP. The permit also prescribes post-closure 

monitoring for hazardous waste sites that were closed under RCRA prior to the enactment of the FFACO (see 

Section 9.4.5). One of these RCRA closure sites is CAU110, the Area 3 U-3ax/bl subsidence crater which contains 

mixed waste. Although RCRA requires groundwater monitoring at CAU 110 under 40 CFR Part 265, NDEP has 

granted a ground-water monitoring waiver because the groundwater is so deep. Vadose zone monitoring is, instead, 

conducted at this site in compliance with the RCRA Part B Permit. The Permit also requires preparation of an EPA 

Biennial Hazardous Waste Report of all HW volumes generated at the NTS and at the NLVF during a year. 

NAC 444.570–444.7499 - Solid Waste Disposal Controls – Enforces the federal regulations pertaining to solid 

wastes. This Nevada regulation sets standards for solid waste management systems, including the storage, collection, 

transportation, processing, recycling, and disposal of solid waste. The NTS has one inactive and four active permitted 

landfills. The Area 5 Asbestiform Low-Level Solid Waste Disposal Unit P07U is inactive. Active units include the 

Area 5 Asbestiform Low-Level Solid Waste Disposal Unit P06U), Area 6 Hydrocarbon Disposal Site, Area 9 U10c 

Solid Waste Disposal Site, and Area 23 Solid Waste Disposal Site. These landfills are designed, constructed, operated, 

maintained, and monitored in adherence to the requirements of their state-issued permits. 

NAC 459.9921–459.999 - Storage Tanks – Enforces the federal regulations under RCRA pertaining to the 

maintenance and operation of fuel tanks (including underground fuel storage tanks) so as to prevent environmental 

contamination. The NTS has five USTs and RSL-Nellis has four USTs. The tanks are either (1) fully regulated under 

RCRA and registered with the state; (2) regulated under RCRA and registered with the State of Nevada, but deferred 

from leak detection requirements; or (3) excluded from federal and state regulation. NDEP allows Clark County to 

enforce this NAC at the RSL-Nellis facility with the issuance of county permits to NNSA/NSO. The UST program 

reports, upgrades, and removes USTs in accordance with regulatory compliance schedules. 

2.4.1 Compliance Reports 

The following reports were prepared in 2007 or 2008 to comply with environmental regulations for waste 

management and environmental restoration operations conducted on the NTS in 2007. All CAU/CAS reports 

prepared in 2007 as per the FFACO schedule are presented in Table 9-4 of Section 9.4.1. 

• Area 5 Asbestiform Low-Level Solid Waste Disposal Annual Report for CY 2007 – submitted electronically to NDEP in 

January 2008 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-15 

• Quarterly LLW/LLMW Disposal Reports (for all active LLW and LLMW disposal cells) – submitted by letter to 

NDEP each quarter 

• Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator 2007 Hazardous Waste Report (for the NTS and NLVF) – submitted 

electronically to NDEP in February 2008 

• Annual Transportation Report for Radioactive Waste Shipments to and from the Nevada Test Site – Fiscal Year 2007 (DOE, 

2007a) 

• Biannual Neutron Monitoring Report for the Nevada Test Site Area 9 10c and Area 6 Hydrocarbon Landfills 

• Nevada Test Site 2007 Data Report: Groundwater Monitoring Program Area 5 Radioactive Waste Management Site (NSTec, 

2008a)

• Post-closure monitoring reports for the five RCRA Part B-identified CAUs 

• January-June 2007 Biannual Solid Waste Disposal Site Report for the Nevada Test Site Area 23 Sanitary Landfill 

• July-December 2007 Biannual Solid Waste Disposal Site Report for the Nevada Test Site Area 23 Sanitary Landfill 

• 2007 Annual Solid Waste Disposal Site Report for the NTS Area 6 Hydrocarbon Landfill and Area 9 U10c Landfills 

• Nevada Test Site 2007 Waste Management Monitoring Report Area 3 and Area 5 Radioactive Waste Management Sites

(NSTec, 2008b) 

2.4.2 Compliance Status 

See Table 2-4 for a summary of how NNSA/NSO complied with waste management and environmental restoration 

regulations at the NTS in 2007. 
2-16

 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 2-4. NTS compliance status with applicable waste management and environmental restoration regulations 

Compliance Measure/Action Compliance Limit 

2

Com

S

10 CFR 830: Nuclear Safety Management 

Completion and maintenance of proper conduct of operations documents required for Class II Nuclear Facility for disposal/characterization/storage of radioactive waste 

Six types of guiding documents 

required 

Com

DOE Order 435.1 Radioactive Waste Management

Establishment of Waste Acceptance Criteria for radioactive wastes received for disposal/storage at Area 3 and 5 RWMSs 

NA(b) Com

Vadose zone monitoring at Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs Not required by order - 

Performed to validate 

performance assessment criteria 

of RWMSs 

Con

Track annual volume of disposed LLW at Area 3 & Area 5 RWMSs (in cubic meters [m3]) NA Com

26,

40 CFR 265.92 and RCRA (as enforced through permits issued by the State of Nevada) 

pH, specific conductance (SC), total organic carbon (TOC), total organic halides (TOX), and tritium (3H) and 11 general water chemistry parameters in groundwater sampled 

semi-annually from wells UE5 PW-1, UE5 PW-2, and UE5 PW-3 to verify performance of P03U 

pH: 7.6 to 9.2 

SC: 0.440 mmhos/cm(c)

TOC: 1 mg/L(d)

TOX: 50 μg/L(e)

H3: 2,000 pCi/L 

Com

Volume of disposed LLMW at Pit 3 Mixed Waste Disposal Unit (P03U) (in cubic meters [m3] or cubic feet [ft3]) 

20,000 m3 (706,293 ft3) Com

2,49

Volume of nonradioactive HW stored at the HWSU 61,600 liters 

(16,280 gallons) 

Com

23.8

Weight of approved explosive ordnance wastes detonated at the EODU (in kilograms [kg] or pounds [lb]) 

45.4 kg (100 lbs) at a time, not to 

exceed 1 detonation event/hour 

Com

Submit quarterly reports of volume of wastes received at P03U, HWSU, and EODU to the State of Nevada 

Due April, July, October, 

January 

Com

Submit EPA Biennial Hazardous Waste Report for NTS and NLVF to the State of Nevada Due the following February for 

odd-numbered years 

Com

200

sub

Februa
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-17 Table 2-4. NTS compliance status with applicable waste management and environmental restoration regulations (continu

Compliance Measure/Action Compliance Limit 2

Com

St

40 CFR 265.92 and RCRA (as enforced through permits issued by the State of Nevada) (continued) Conduct vadose zone monitoring for RCRA closure site U3ax/bl Subsidence Crater Continuous monitoring using TDR(g) sensors Com

Periodic post-closure inspection of Area 2 Bitcutter Containment and Area 6 Decon Pond NA Com

Upgrade, remove, and report on USTs NA Com

Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order Adherence to calendar year work scope for site characterization, remediation, and closures 114 CASs were closed; 41 CAUs identified for some phase of action Com

Post-closure monitoring and inspections of closed sites 41 CAUs required monitoring/ inspecting Com

NAC 444.750-8396 - Solid Waste Disposal Controls Track weight and volume of waste disposed each calendar year Area 5 P06U - No limit Area 6 - No limit Area 9 - No limit Area 23 - 20 tons/d Com

Ave

3.2 to

A

Monitor vadose zone for the Area 6 Hydrocarbon and Area 9 U10c Solid Waste disposal sites Annually using neutron logging through access tubes Com

(a) The section(s) within this document that describe how compliance summary data were collected (b) Not applicable (c) mmhos/cm = micromhos (a measure of conductance) per centimeter (d) mg/L = milligram per liter (e)

μg/L = micrograms per liter 

(f) The reporting units for the State of Nevada are tons (not a unit of volume), by which quarterly fees to the state are based 

(g) Time domain reflectometry 
Compliance Summary

2-18 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

2.5 Hazardous Materials Control and Management 

Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) – Requires testing and regulation of chemical substances that enter the 

consumer market. Since the NTS does not produce chemicals, compliance with TSCA is primarily directed toward 

management of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The regulations implementing TSCA for the State of Nevada 

contain recordkeeping requirements for PCB activities (NAC 444.9452). At the NTS, remediation activities and 

maintenance of fluorescent lights can result in the disposal of PCB-contaminated waste and light ballasts. Disposal of 

these items on the NTS is regulated. 

Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) – Sets forth procedures and requirements for 

pesticide registration, labeling, classification, devices for use, and certification of applicators. The use of certain 

pesticides (called “restricted-use pesticides”) is regulated. The use of non-restricted-use pesticides (as available in 

consumer products) is not regulated. On the NTS, only non-restricted-use pesticides are applied under the direction 

of a State of Nevada certified applicator. Pesticide applications in food service facilities are subcontracted to statecertified vendors who provide these services.

Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) – This act is a free-standing provision 

under Title III of the 1986 SARA Title III amendments to CERCLA. It requires that federal, state, and local 

emergency planning authorities be provided information regarding the presence and storage of hazardous substances 

and their planned and unplanned environmental releases, including provisions and plans for responding to emergency 

situations involving hazardous materials. EO 12856, Federal Compliance with Right-to-Know Laws and Pollution Prevention 

Requirements, requires all federal facilities to comply with the provisions of EPCRA. Under EPCRA, NNSA/NSO is 

required to submit reports pursuant to Sections 302, 304, 311, 312, and 313 of SARA Title III described below.

Section 302–303, Planning Notification – Requires that the state emergency response commission and the 

local emergency planning committee be notified when an extremely hazardous substance (EHS) is present at 

a facility in excess of the threshold planning quantity. An inventory of the location and amounts of all 

hazardous substances stored on the NTS and at the three offsite facilities is maintained. Inventory data are 

included in an annual report called the Nevada Combined Agency (NCA) Report. Also, NNSA/NSO 

monitors hazardous materials while they are in transit on the NTS through a hazardous materials notification 

system called HAZTRAK. 

Section 304, Extremely Hazardous Substances Release Notification – Requires that the local emergency 

planning committee and state emergency response agencies be notified immediately of accidental or 

unplanned releases of an EHS to the environment. Also, the national response center is notified if the release 

exceeds the CERCLA reportable quantity for the particular hazardous substance. 

Section 311–312, Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)/Chemical Inventory – Requires facilities to 

provide applicable emergency response agencies with MSDSs, or a list of MSDSs for each hazardous 

chemical stored on site. This is essentially a one-time reporting unless chemicals or products change. Any 

new MSDSs are provided annually in the NCA Report. Section 312 requires facilities to report maximum 

amounts of chemicals onsite at any one time. This report is submitted to the State Emergency Response 

Commission, the Local Emergency Planning Committee, and the local fire departments. 

Section 313, Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) Reporting – Requires facilities to submit an annual report 

entitled “Toxic Chemical Release Inventory, Form R” to the EPA and to the State of Nevada if annual usage 

quantities of listed toxic chemicals exceed specified thresholds. Lead releases on the NTS above threshold 

limits are reported to the EPA and the State Emergency Response Commission in the TRI, Form R report. 

NAC 555 - Control of Insects, Pests, and Noxious Weeds – Provides regulatory framework for certification of 

several classifications of registered pesticide and herbicide applicators in the State of Nevada. The Nevada 

Department of Agriculture (NDOA) administers this program and has the primary role to enforce FIFRA in Nevada. 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-19 

Inspections of pesticide/herbicide applicator programs are carried out by NDOA. Restricted-use pesticides are not 

used by NSTec at the NTS. 

NAC 444 - Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) – This code incorporates by reference the federal requirements for 

the handling, storage, and disposal of PCBs at the NTS. 

State of Nevada Chemical Catastrophe Prevention Act – This state act directed the NDEP to develop and 

implement an accident prevention program which was named the Chemical Accident Prevention Program (CAPP). 

The act requires registration of facilities storing EHSs above listed thresholds. A CAPP report is submitted to the 

NDEP if any storage quantity thresholds are exceeded.

2.5.1 Compliance Reports 

The following reports were generated for 2007 NNSA/NSO operations on the NTS and at the three offsite facilities 

in compliance with hazardous materials control and management regulations: 

• Nevada Combined Agency Report - Calendar Year 2007, submitted to state and local agencies 

• Toxic Release Inventory Report, Form R for CY2007 Operations, submitted to the EPA and to the State of Nevada 

• Calendar Year (CY) 2007 Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Report for the Nevada Test Site (NTS), submitted to 

NNSA/NSO (no longer required to be submitted to the EPA)

• 2007 Chemical Accident Prevention Program Report, submitted to NDEP 

2.5.2 Compliance Status 

See Table 2-5 for a summary of how NNSA/NSO complied with regulations for hazardous materials control and 

management at the NTS and the three offsite facilities in 2007. 
y

2-20 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

Table 2-5. NTS compliance status with applicable regulations for hazardous substance control and management 

Compliance Measure/Action Compliance Limit 2007 Compliance 

Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and NAC 444 - Polychlorinated Biphenyls

Storage and offsite disposal of PCB materials Required if >50 ppm(b) PCBs Compliant 

13 drums disposed 

Storage and onsite disposal of PCB materials Allowed if <50 ppm PCBs Compliant 

Onsite disposal of m

from one demolished 

Disposal of bulk product waste containing PCBs generated by remediation and site operations 

Case-by-case approval by NDEP Compliant 

Generate report of quantities of PCB liquids and materials disposed offsite during previous calendar year 

Due July 1 of following year Compliant 

Completed March 1

Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and NAC 555 - Control of Insects, Pests, and Noxious Weeds

Application of restricted-use pesticides are conducted under the direct supervision of a state-certified applicator 

 NA(c) Compliant 

Maintain state certification of onsite pesticide and herbicide applicator 

NA Compliant 

Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) 

Section 302

–303 Planning Notification NCA Report due in March for previous 

calendar year 

Compliant 

Submitted February 

Section 304 - EHS Release Notification Notification Report due immediately 

after a release 

Compliant 

No releases occu

Section 311

–312 - MSDS/Chemical Inventory NCA Report due in March for previous 

calendar year 

Compliant 

Submitted February 

Section 313 - TRI Reporting TRI Report, Form R due July 1 for 

previous calendar year 

Compliant 

Submitted June 24

State of Nevada Chemical Catastrophe Prevention Act 

Registration of NTS with the state if EHSs are stored above listed threshold quantities 

NDEP-CAPP(d ) Report due 

June 21, 2008 

Compliant 

Submitted June 3, 

(a) The section(s) within this document that describe how compliance summary data were collected 

(b) ppm = parts per million (c) Not applicable 

(d) Chemical Accident Prevention Program 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-21 

2.6 National Environmental Policy Act 

Before any project or activity is initiated at the NTS, it must be evaluated for possible impacts to the environment. 

Under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), federal agencies are required to consider environmental 

effects and values and reasonable alternatives before making a decision to implement any major federal action that 

may have a significant impact on the human environment. NNSA/NSO uses four levels of documentation to 

demonstrate compliance with NEPA: 

• Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) – a full disclosure of the potential environmental effects of proposed 

actions and the reasonable alternatives to those actions 

• Environmental Assessment (EA) – a concise discussion of proposed actions and alternatives and the potential 

environmental effects to determine if an EIS is necessary 

• Supplement Analysis (SA) – a collection and analysis of information for an action already addressed in an existing 

EIS or EA used to determine whether a supplemental EIS or EA should be prepared, a new EIS or EA should be 

prepared, or no further NEPA documentation is required 

• Categorical Exclusion (CX) – a category of actions which do not have a significant adverse environment impact 

based on similar previous activities, and for which, therefore, neither an EA nor an EIS is required 

A NEPA Environmental Evaluation Checklist (Checklist) is required for all proposed projects or activities on the 

NTS. The Checklist is reviewed by the NNSA/NSO NEPA Compliance Officer to determine whether the activity’s 

environmental impacts have been addressed in existing NEPA documents. If a proposed project has not been 

covered under any previous NEPA analysis and it does not qualify as a CX, then a new NEPA analysis is performed. 

The NEPA analysis may result in preparation of a new EA or a new SA to the existing programmatic NTS EIS 

(DOE, 1996a). The NEPA Compliance Officer must approve each Checklist before a project proceeds. During 

2007, preparation of a programmatic SA to the 1996 NTS EIS was started. This NTS EIS SA was last prepared in 

2002, and is done every five years until the EIS must be redone. Table 2-6 presents a summary of how NNSA/NSO 

complied with NEPA in 2007 for 86 projects. 

Table 2-6. NTS NEPA compliance activities conducted in 2007 

Results of NEPA Checklist Reviews / NEPA Compliance Activities 

8 projects were exempted from further NEPA analysis because they were of CX status. 

73 projects were exempted from further NEPA analysis due to their inclusion under previous analysis in the NTS EIS 

(DOE, 1996a) and its Record of Decision. 

1 project was exempted from further NEPA analysis due to its inclusion under previous analysis in the Final 

Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed Relocation of Technical Area 18 Capabilities and Materials at the Los Alamos 

National Laboratory (DOE, 2002c). 

1 project was exempted from further NEPA analysis due to its inclusion under previous analysis in the Environmental 

Assessment for Atlas Relocation and Operation at the Nevada Test Site (DOE, 2001a). 

1 project was exempted from further NEPA analysis due to their inclusion under previous analysis in the Environmental 

Assessment for Hazardous Materials Testing at the Hazardous Materials Spill Center, Nevada Test Site (DOE, 2002d). 

1 project was exempted from further NEPA analysis due to its inclusion under previous analysis in the Final

Environmental Assessment for Activities Using Biological Simulants and Releases of Chemicals at the Nevada Test Site 

(DOE, 2004a). 

1 project was exempted from further NEPA analysis due to its inclusion under previous analysis in the Environmental 

Assessment for Hazardous Materials Testing at the Hazardous Materials Spill Center, Nevada Test Site (DOE, 2002c) and in the 

Final Environmental Assessment for Activities Using Biological Simulants and Release of Chemicals at the Nevada Test Site 

(DOE, 2004a). 
Compliance Summary

2-22 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

2.7 Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization 

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) – Through 42 United States Code 6922 (b)(1) of RCRA, 

generators of hazardous waste are required to have a program in place to reduce the volume or quantity and toxicity 

of such waste to the degree determined by the generator to be economically practicable. The EPA was required to 

develop a list of types of commercially available products (e.g., copy machine paper, plastic desktop items) and then 

specify that a certain minimum percentage of the product type’s content be composed of recycled materials if they are 

to be purchased by a federal agency (e.g., all federally purchased copy machine paper must be composed of a 

minimum of 30 percent recycled paper). It then requires federal facilities to have a procurement process in place to 

ensure that they purchase product types which satisfy the EPA-designated minimum percentages of recycled material. 

EO 13101, Greening the Government through Waste Prevention, Recycling and Federal Acquisition – 

Requires federal facilities to incorporate waste prevention and recycling into daily operations. It requires federal 

facilities to maintain an affirmative procurement process that ensures that 100 percent of products purchased which 

are found on the EPA-designated product list contain recycled material at the EPA-specified minimum content. 

EO 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management – Requires 

federal facilities to begin establishing goals to improve efficiency in energy and water use, procure goods and services 

that use sustainable environmental practices, reduce amounts of toxic materials acquired and maintain a cost-effective 

waste prevention and recycling program, ensure construction and major renovation of buildings that incorporate 

sustainable practices, reduce use of petroleum products in motor vehicles and increase use of alternative fuels, and 

acquire and dispose of electronic products using environmentally sound practices. 

DOE Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program – Requires federal facilities to implement an 

Environmental Management System (EMS) that includes pollution prevention. The EMS must be fully integrated 

into the site Integrated Safety Management System (ISMS). 

NDEP Hazardous Waste Permit Number NEV HW0021 – This state permit requires NNSA/NSO to maintain 

an Annual Waste Minimization Summary Report in the Facility Operating Records. This report should include a 

description of the efforts taken during the year to reduce the volume and toxicity of waste generated as per RCRA, as 

well as a description of the changes in volume and toxicity of waste actually achieved during the year in comparison to 

previous years to the extent such information is available for the years prior to 1984. 

2.7.1 Compliance Reports 

The compliance reports for 2007 activities performed to comply with pollution prevention and waste minimization 

(P2/WM) directives are presented in Table 2-7. 

2.7.2 Compliance Status 

See Table 2-7 for a summary of how NNSA/NSO complied with P2/WM regulations in 2007. 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-23 

Table 2-7. NTS compliance status with applicable P2/WM regulations 

Compliance Measure/Action 

Compliance

Limit/Goal 

2007 

Compliance 

Status 

Section 

Reference (a)

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) 

 Have a program in place to reduce the volume or quantity and 

toxicity of generated hazardous waste to the degree it is 

economically practicable 

NA(b) Compliant 11.1 

 Have a process in place to ensure that EPA-designated-list products 

are purchased containing the minimum content of recycled materials 

NA Compliant 11.1 

EO 13101, Greening the Government through Waste Prevention, 

Recycling and Federal Acquisition 

 Incorporate waste prevention and recycling into daily operations NA Compliant 11.1 

 Percent of all purchased items which contain the minimum content 

of recycled material as specified on the EPA-designated product list 

100% Noncompliant 

52% 

11.1 

 Submit a 2007 fiscal year (October 1–September 31) RCRA/EO 13101 

Report to DOE/Headquarters (HQ) by entering the site’s data into 

the DOE/HQ electronic database 

Due 

December 31, 

2007 

Compliant 

Submitted 

December 27, 

2007 

- - 

EO 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and 

Transportation Management

Set P2/WM goals based on the P2/WM goals specified in the EO Compliant 17.2.4 

Table 17-2 

DOE Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program

 Submit a 2007 fiscal year Waste Generation and Pollution Prevention 

Progress Report to DOE/HQ 

Due 

December 31, 

2007 

Compliant 

Submitted 

December 21, 

2007 

11.3 

NDEP Hazardous Waste Permit Number NEV HW0021 

Submit a 2007 calendar year Waste Minimization Summary Report 

to NDEP 

Due by 

March 1, 

2008 

Compliant 

Submitted 

February 25, 

2008 

11.3 

(a) The section(s) within this document that describe how compliance summary data were collected

(b) Not applicable
Compliance Summary

2-24 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

2.8 Historic Preservation and Cultural Resource Protection 

National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended – This act presents the goals of federal participation in 

historic preservation and delineates the framework for federal activities. Section 106 requires federal agencies to take 

into account the effects of their undertakings on properties included in, or eligible for inclusion in, the National 

Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and to consult with interested parties. The Section 106 process involves the 

agency reviewing background information, identifying eligible properties for the NRHP within the area of potential 

effect through consultation with the Nevada State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), making a determination of 

effect (when applicable), and developing a mitigation plan when an adverse effect is unavoidable. Determinations of 

eligibility, effect, and mitigation are conducted in consultation with the SHPO and, in some cases, the federal 

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. Section 110 sets out the broad historic preservation responsibilities of 

federal agencies and is intended to ensure that historic preservation is fully integrated into the ongoing programs of all 

federal agencies. It requires federal agencies to develop and implement a Cultural Resources Management Plan, to 

identify and evaluate the eligibility of historic properties for long-term management as well as for future projectspecific planning, and to maintain archaeological collections and their associated records at professional standards. At 

the NTS, a long-term management strategy includes (1) monitoring NRHP-listed and eligible properties to determine 

if environmental or other actions are negatively affecting the integrity or other aspects of eligibility and (2) taking 

corrective actions if necessary. 

EO 11593, Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment – Reinforces the obligation of federal 

agencies to conduct adequate surveys to locate any and all sites of historic value under their jurisdiction. 

Archeological Resources and Protection Act of 1979 – The purpose of this act is to secure, for the present and 

future benefit of the American people, the protection of archaeological resources and sites which are on public and 

Indian lands, and to address the irreplaceable heritage of archaeological sites and materials. It requires the issuance of 

a federal archaeology permit to qualified archaeologists for any work that involves excavation or removal of 

archaeological resources on federal and Indian lands and notification to Indian tribes of these activities. Unauthorized 

excavation, removal, damage, alteration, or defacement of archaeological resources is prohibited, as is the sale, 

purchase, exchange, transport, receipt of, or offer for sale of such resources. Criminal and civil penalties apply to 

such actions. Information concerning the nature and location of any archaeological resource may not be made 

available to the public unless the federal land manager determines that the disclosure would not create a risk of harm 

to the resources or site. The Secretary of the Interior is required to submit an annual report at the end of each fiscal 

year to Congress which reports the scope and effectiveness of all federal agencies’ efforts on the protection of 

archaeological resources, specific projects surveyed, resources excavated or removed, damage or alterations to sites, 

criminal and civil violations, the results of permitted archaeological activities, and the costs incurred by the federal 

government to conduct this work. All archaeologists working at the NTS must have qualifications that meet federal 

standards and must work under a permit issued by NNSA/NSO. In the event of vandalism, NNSA/NSO would 

need to investigate the actions.

American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978 – This law established the government policy to protect and 

preserve for American Indians their inherent right of freedom to believe, express, and exercise the traditional 

religions, including but not limited to access to sites, use and possession of sacred objects, and the freedom to 

worship through ceremonials and traditional rites. Locations exist on the NTS that have religious significance to 

Western Shoshone and Southern Paiute; visits to these places involve prayer and other activities. Access is provided 

by NNSA/NSO as long as there are no safety or health hazards. 

Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) of 1990 – This act requires federal 

agencies to identify Native American human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, and objects of cultural 

patrimony in their possession. Agencies are required to prepare an inventory of human remains and associated 

funerary objects, as well as a summary with a general description of sacred objects, objects of cultural patrimony, and 

unassociated funerary objects. Through consultation with Native American tribes, the affiliation of the remains and 

objects are determined and the tribes can request repatriation of their cultural items. The agency is required to publish 

a notice of inventory completion in the Federal Register. The law also protects the physical location where human 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-25 

remains are placed during a death rite or ceremony. The NTS artifact collection is subject to NAGPRA, and the 

locations of American Indian human remains at the NTS must be protected from NTS activities. 

2.8.1 Reporting Requirements 

NNSA/NSO submits Section 106 cultural resources survey reports and historical evaluations to the Nevada SHPO 

for review and concurrence. Mitigation plans and mitigation documents are also submitted to the Nevada SHPO and 

some types of documents go to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and the National Park Service. 

Reports containing restricted data on site locations are not available to the public. Some technical reports, however, 

are available to the public upon request and can be obtained from the National Technical Information Service. The 

2007 reports submitted to agencies are discussed in Chapter 12. 

2.8.2 Compliance Status 

See Table 2-8 for a summary of how NNSA/NSO complied with historic preservation and cultural resource 

protection regulations on the NTS in 2007. 

 Table 2-8. NTS compliance status with historic preservation regulations 

Compliance Action 

2007 Compliance 

Status 

Section 

Reference(a)

National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and 

EO 11593, Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment 

Maintain and implement NTS Cultural Resources Management Plan Compliant - - 

Conduct cultural resources inventories and evaluations of historic structures Compliant 12.1; 

Table 12-1 

Make determinations of eligibility to the National Register Compliant 12.1.2; 

Table 12-1 

Make assessments of impact to eligible properties Compliant 12.1.2 

Manage artifact collection as per required professional standards Compliant 12.2 

Archaeological Resources and Protection Act of 1979 

Conduct archaeological work by qualified personnel Compliant - - 

Determine if archaeological sites have been damaged Compliant 12.1.3.2 

Complete and submit Secretary of the Interior Archaeology Questionnaire Compliant 12.1.3.3 

American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978 

Allow American Indians access to NTS locations for ceremonies and 

traditional use 

Compliant 12.3 

Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act 

Consult with affiliated Native American Indian tribes regarding 

repatriation of cultural items 

Completed 12.2 

Protect Native American Indian burial locations on NTS Compliant 12.2 

Overall Requirement 

Consult with tribes regarding various cultural resources issues Compliant 12.3 

(a) The section(s) within this document that describe how compliance summary data were collected
Compliance Summary

2-26 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

2.9 Conservation and Protection of Biota and Wildlife Habitat 

Endangered Species Act (ESA) – Section 7 of this act requires federal agencies to ensure that their actions do not 

jeopardize the continued existence of federally listed endangered or threatened species or their critical habitat. The 

threatened desert tortoise is the only animal protected under the ESA which may be impacted by NTS operations. 

NTS activities within tortoise habitat are conducted so as to comply with the terms and conditions of Biological 

Opinions issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to NNSA/NSO. 

Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) – Prohibits the harming of any migratory bird, their nest, or eggs without 

authorization by the Secretary of the Interior. All but five of the 239 bird species observed on the NTS (Wills and 

Ostler, 2001) are protected under this act. Biological surveys are conducted for projects to prevent direct harm to 

protected birds, nests, and eggs. 

Bald Eagle Protection Act – Prohibits the capture or harming of bald and golden eagles without special 

authorization. Both bald and golden eagles occur on the NTS. Biological surveys are conducted for projects to 

prevent direct harm to eagles and their nests and eggs. 

Clean Water Act (CWA), Section 404, Wetlands Regulations – Regulates land development affecting wetlands by 

requiring a permit obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to discharge dredged or fill material 

into waters of the United States, which includes most wetlands on public and private land. NTS projects are 

evaluated for their potential to disturb wetlands and their need for a Section 404 permit application. Based on recent 

rulings, no natural NTS wetland may meet the criteria of a “jurisdictional” wetland subject to Section 404 regulations. 

However, final determination from the USACE regarding the status of NTS wetlands has yet to be received. 

National Wildlife Refuge Administration Act – Forbids a person to knowingly disturb or injure vegetation or kill 

vertebrate or invertebrate animals or their nests or eggs on any National Wildlife Refuge lands unless permitted by the 

Secretary of the Interior. The boundary of the Desert National Wildlife Refuge (DNWR), land administered within 

this System, is approximately 5 km (3.1 mi) downwind of the NPTEC in Area 5. Biological monitoring is conducted 

to verify that tests conducted at the NPTEC do not disperse toxic chemicals that could harm biota on the DNWR. 

EO 11990, Protection of Wetlands – Requires governmental agencies to minimize the destruction, loss, or 

degradation of wetlands and to preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands in carrying out the 

agency’s responsibilities, including managing federal lands and facilities. Projects are evaluated for their potential to 

disturb the more than 20 natural water sources on the NTS. NTS wetlands are monitored to document their status 

and use by wildlife, even though they may not meet the criteria for “jurisdictional” status under the CWA. 

EO 11988, Floodplain Management – Ensures protection of property and human well-being within a floodplain 

and protection of floodplains themselves. The Federal Emergency Management Agency publishes guidelines and 

specifications for assessing alluvial fan flooding. NNSA/NSO generally satisfies EO 11988 through DOE 

Order 420.1, Facility Safety, and invoked standards. DOE Order 420.1 and the associated implementation guide for 

mitigation of natural phenomena hazards call for a graded approach to assessing risk to all facilities (structures, 

systems, and components [SSC]) from potential natural hazards. Chapter 4 of DOE Standard 1020 

(DOE-STD-1020-2002) provides flood design and evaluation criteria for SSC. Evaluations of flood hazards at the 

NTS are generally conducted to ensure protection of property and human well-being. 

EO 13186, Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds – Directs federal agencies to take 

certain actions to further implement the MBTA if agencies have, or are likely to have, a measurable negative effect on 

migratory bird populations. It also directs federal agencies to support the conservation intent of the MBTA and 

conduct actions, as practicable, to benefit the health of migratory bird populations. NTS projects are evaluated for 

their potential to impact such bird populations. 

EO 13112, Invasive Species – Directs federal agencies to act to prevent the introduction of, or to monitor and 

control, invasive (non-native) species; to provide for restoration of native species; and to exercise care in taking 

actions that could promote the introduction or spread of invasive species. Land-disturbing activities on the NTS have 
Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-27 

resulted in the spread of numerous invasive plant species. Habitat reclamation and other controls are evaluated and 

conducted when feasible to control such species and meet the purposes of this EO. 

Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burro Act – Requires the protection, management, and control of wild horses and 

burros on public lands and calls for the management and protection of these animals in a manner that is designed to 

achieve and maintain a thriving natural ecological balance. Wild horses on the NTS may wander off the NTS onto 

public lands and therefore are protected under this act. This act makes it unlawful to harm wild horses and burros. 

DOE Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program – Requires federal facilities to address the protection of 

site resources from wildland and operational fires and the protection of the environment and biota from site activities 

through the integration of an EMS into each site’s ISMS (see Section 2.10). Annual surveys of vegetation fuel 

hazards, ecosystem mapping, surveys for protected and important species, and habitat revegetation are conducted to 

meet the intent of this order. 

Five-Party Cooperative Agreement – Agreement between NNSA/NSO, NTTR, FWS, Bureau of Land 

Management (BLM), and the State of Nevada Clearinghouse that calls for cooperation in conducting resource 

inventories and developing resource management plans for wild horses and burros and to maintain favorable habitat 

on federally withdrawn lands for these animals. BLM considers NTS a zero herd-size management area. 

NNSA/NSO consults with BLM regarding any issue of NTS horse management. Biologists conduct periodic horse 

census surveys on the NTS. 

NAC 503.010–503.104 - Protection of Wildlife – Identifies Nevada animal species, both protected and un-protected, 

and prohibits the harm of protected species without special permit. Over 200 bird species and 1 bat species on the 

NTS are state-protected. Biological surveys are conducted for projects to prevent direct harm to protected birds, 

nests, eggs, and protected bats. 

NAC 527.270 - Protection of Flora – Requires that the State Forester Firewarden determine the protective status of 

Nevada plants and prohibits removal or destruction of protected plants without special permit. Currently, no stateprotected plant species are known to occur on the NTS. Annual reviews of the status of NTS plants are conducted. 

2.9.1 Compliance Issues 

Three deaths recorded among migratory birds in 2007 were related to NTS activities (see Table 13-4). No mitigation 

actions were identified or taken to reduce future bird mortality from these causes. 

2.9.2 Compliance Reports 

The following reports were prepared in 2007 or 2008 to meet regulation requirements or to document compliance for 

all activities conducted in 2007: 

• Annual Report of Actions Taken Under Authorization of the Biological Opinion on NTS Activities (File No. 1-5-96-F-33) – 

January 1, 2007 Through December 31, 2007 

• Annual Report for Handling Permit S29157, submitted via e-mail to Nevada Division of Wildlife (Julie Meadows) 

• Annual Report for Federal Migratory Bird Scientific Collecting Permit MB008695-0, submitted via FAX to FWS Portland 

Office 

• Annual Report for Federal Migratory Bird Special Purpose Possession Permit (Dead Permit) MB037277-1, submitted via FAX 

to FWS Portland Office 

2.9.3 Compliance Status 

See Table 2-9 for a summary of how NNSA/NSO complied with regulations related to the conservation and 

protection of biota and wildlife habitat on the NTS in 2007.
2-28 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 2-9. NTS compliance status with applicable biota and wildlife habitat regulations Compliance Measure/Action Compliance Limit 2007 Compliance Sta

Endangered Species Act – 1996 Opinion for NTS Programmatic Activities Number of tortoises accidentally injured or killed due to NTS activities, per year 3 Compliant - 0 

Number of tortoises captured and displaced from project sites, per year 10 Compliant - 0 

 Number of tortoises taken since 1992 by way of injury or mortality on NTS paved roads by 

vehicles other than those in use during a project 

Unlimited Compliant - 1 

 Number of total acres (ac) of desert tortoise habitat disturbed during NTS project 

construction since 1992 

3,015 ac Compliant 

286.07 ac 

 Follow the 23 terms and conditions of the Biological Opinion during construction and 

operation of NTS projects 

NA(b) Compliant 

 Conduct biological surveys at proposed project sites to assess presence of protected species NA Compliant Migratory Bird Treaty Act; Bald Eagle Protection Act; and EO 13186, Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds Number of birds/nests/eggs harmed by NTS project activities 0 Noncompliant 

3 bird deaths 

National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act  Number of animals, their nests, or eggs killed and amount of vegetation disturbed or 

injured on System lands (the DNWR) as a result of NTS activities 

0 Compliant - 0 

Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burro Act and Five-Party Cooperative Agreement  Number of horses harassed or killed due to NTS activities 0 Compliant - 0  Cooperate in conducting resource inventories and developing resource management 

plans for horses on the NTS, NTTR, and DNWR 

NA Compliant 

EO 11988, Floodplain Management Conduct flood hazard NA NA – No floodplain proClean Water Act, Section 404-Wetlands Regulations and EO 11990, Protection of Wetlands Number of wetlands disturbed by NTS activity NA 0 EO 13112, Invasive Species Evaluate feasibility of conducting habitat reclamation and other controls to control spread 

of invasive species 

NA Compliant 

 NAC 503.010–503.104 and NAC 527.270 - Nevada Protective Measures for Wildlife and Flora

 Number of state-protected animals harmed or killed and number of state-protected plants 

collected or harmed due to NTS activities 

0 Noncompliant 

3 bird deaths 

(a) The sections within this document that describe how compliance summary data were collected (b) Not applicable 
 Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-29 

2.10 Environmental Management System 

EO 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management (effective 

January 26, 2007) – This EO revoked EO 13148, Greening the Government through Leadership in Environmental Management,

which required federal facilities to have an EMS that considers potential environmental impacts in all aspects of its 

work. The revoked EO required that federal facilities have an EMS in place by the end of 2005 and that federal 

facilities prepare an annual EMS report. The new EO 13423 requires facilities to have goals to improve energy 

efficiency, reduce water use, reduce use of petroleum products, and increase use of alternative fuels, as well as to have 

goals related to procurement and construction. 

DOE Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program – Requires each DOE facility to implement an EMS which 

is a continuing cycle of planning, implementing, evaluating, and improving processes and actions undertaken to 

achieve environmental goals. The objectives are to implement sound stewardship practices that are protective of the 

air, water, land, and other natural and cultural resources impacted by DOE operations, by which DOE cost-effectively 

meets or exceeds compliance with applicable environmental, public health, and resource protection laws, regulations, 

and DOE requirements. The order required each DOE site’s EMS to be fully integrated into their site’s ISMS by the 

end of 2005. 

2.10.1 Compliance Reports 

The following report was prepared to document EMS activities conducted in 2007: 

• 2007 Facility EMS Annual Report Data (DOE) – entered by NNSA/NSO into DOE computer database. 

2.10.2 Compliance Status 

See Table 2-10 for a summary of how NNSA/NSO complied with EMS regulations. 

Table 2-10. NTS compliance status with EMS regulations 

Compliance Measure/Action 

Compliance 

Limit/Goal 

2007 Compliance 

Status 

Section 

Reference(a)

EO 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and 

Transportation Management

 

 

 

Prepare annual EMS report; this was a requirement of EO 

13148 which was replaced by EO 13423 

Due 

December 31, 2007 

Compliant 

Submitted 

November 29, 2007 

17.0 

Set environmental goals based on goals in the EO Compliant 17.2.4 

Table 17-2 

DOE Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program 

 

Incorporate the EMS into the site’s ISMS Compliant 17.0 

Implement the EMS by annually identifying 

environmental aspects, objectives, targets, and goals, and 

tracking environmental measures to improve processes 

 Compliant 17.2.4; 

Table 17-1 
Compliance Summary

2-30 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

2.11 Occurrences, Unplanned Releases, and Continuous Releases 

Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) – Continuous release 

reporting under Section 103 requires that a non-permitted hazardous substance release that is equal to or greater than 

its reportable quantity be reported to the National Response Center. The EPA requires all facilities that release a 

hazardous substance meeting the Section 103(f) requirements to report annually to EPA and perform an annual 

evaluation of releases. CERCLA requirements applicable to NTS operations also pertain to an emergency response 

program for hazardous substance releases to the environment (see discussion of EPCRA in Section 2.5). 

Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) – This act is described in Section 2.5. See 

Table 2-5 for summary of compliance to EPCRA pertaining to unplanned environmental releases of hazardous 

substances. 

40 CFR 302.1–302.8: Designation, Reportable Quantities, and Notification – Requires facilities to notify federal 

authorities of spills or releases of certain hazardous substances designated under CERCLA and the CWA. It specifies 

what quantities of hazardous substance spills/releases must be reported to authorities and delineates the notification 

procedures for a release that equals or exceeds the reportable quantities. 

DOE Order 231.1A, Environment, Safety, and Health Reporting – This order includes the requirement for 

reporting environmental occurrences. Along with DOE M 231.1-2, Occurrence Reporting and Processing of Operations 

Information, it requires the establishment and maintenance of a system for reporting operations information related to 

DOE-owned and leased facilities, for processing that information to identify the root causes of environmental 

occurrences, and for providing appropriate corrective action for such occurrences. 

NAC 445A.345–445.348 - Notification of Release of Pollutant – Requires state notification for the unplanned or 

accidental releases of specified quantities of pollutants, hazardous wastes, and contaminants. 

Water Pollution Control General Permit GNEV93001 – This general wastewater discharge permit issued by the 

state to the NTS specifies that no petroleum products will be discharged into treatment works without first being 

processed through an oil/water separator or other approved methods. It also specifies how NNSA/NSO shall report 

each bypass, spill, upset, overflow, or release of treated or untreated sewage. 

Other NTS Permits/Agreements – As with General Permit GNEV93001, there are other state permits and 

agreements cited in previous subsections of this chapter (e.g., FFACO) that specify that accidents or events of noncompliance must be reported. These include events that may create an environmental hazard. 

2.11.1 Compliance Status 

There are no continuous releases on the NTS or at the three offsite facilities. 

In 2007, three reportable environmental occurrences happened. They included a notice of deficiency regarding 

LLMW shipments to Utah, a sewage discharge in Area 6, and a spill in Area 12. All three are described in Table 2-11. 

No reportable environmental occurrences happened at the offsite facilities in 2007. 
 Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-31 

Table 2-11. Environmental occurrences in 2007 

Description of Occurrence Corrective Actions Taken 

ORPS Number/Date: EM--NVSO-NST-NTS-2007-0005, March 28, 2007

The Utah Department of Environmental Quality issued NSTec 

a notice of deficiency for label discrepancies in a shipment of 

three low-level mixed waste containers received at the Energy 

Solutions Envirocare facility in Clive, Utah. There were two 

separate discrepancies between the shipping papers and the 

labels applied to the waste containers. All low-level and 

hazardous waste shipments from NSTec were suspended 

pending completion of a fact finding meeting and 

implementation of the corrective actions. 

The following corrective action was proceduralized 

and two independent reviews are now required: 

• A review and approval of the shipping papers 

and physical inspection of the packages must be 

performed by the Waste Certification Official 

and a Transportation Management representative prior to shipment. 

The customary review of the Shipping Papers by the 

Treatment Storage and Disposal Facility must be 

received and approved prior to shipment.

ORPS Number/Date: NA--NVSO-NST-NTS-2007-0010, August 8, 2007 

An obstruction in a sewer line caused a discharge of 

approximately 20 gallons of sewage out of a manhole cover 

adjacent to the 06-644 facility in Area 6 of the NTS. This sewer 

line leads directly into the lagoon at Yucca Lake. 

The sewer line was flushed and the obstruction was 

cleared. The surrounding area was disinfected and 

notifications were made to NDEP.

ORPS Number/Date: EM--NVSO-NST-NTS-2007-0011, August 14, 2007

During routine cleanup operations of CAU 481, a spill was 

discovered in the T-Tunnel Lower Laydown Yard in Area 12 

of the NTS. It was determined to be dielectric mineral oil from 

an electrical power box that had tipped over. An estimated 30 

to 60 gallons were released. The power box may also contain 

PCBs. 

The spill area was secured, soil samples were taken, 

and NDEP was notified. Sample analysis showed 

no PCBs had been released. All contaminated soil 

was removed and properly disposed. Composite 

soil sample of the cleaned area had concentrations of 

Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons less than the cleanup 

threshold of 100 mg/kg. 
Compliance Summary

2-32 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

2.12 Environment, Safety, and Health Reporting 

DOE Order 231.1A, Environment, Safety and Health Reporting – This order calls for the “timely collection, 

reporting, analysis, and dissemination of information on environment, safety, and health issues as required by law or 

regulations or as needed to ensure that the DOE and the NNSA are kept fully informed on a timely basis about 

events that could adversely affect the health and safety of the public or the workers, the environment, the intended 

purpose of DOE facilities, or the credibility of the Department.” The order specifically requires DOE and NNSA 

sites to prepare an annual calendar year report, referred to as the Annual Site Environmental Report (ASER). 

DOE M 231.1-1A Chg 2, Environment, Safety and Health Reporting Manual - This manual provides detailed 

requirements for implementing DOE Order 231.1A. 

The data to be included in an ASER are air emissions, effluent releases, environmental monitoring, and estimated 

radiological doses to the public from releases of radioactive material at DOE or NNSA sites. The annual report must 

also summarize environmental occurrences and responses reported during the calendar year, confirm compliance with 

environmental standards and requirements, and highlight significant programs and efforts. Environmental 

performance indicators and/or performance measures programs are to be included. The breadth and detail of this 

reporting should reflect the size and extent of programs at a particular site. The ASER for the calendar year is to be 

completed and made available to the public by October 1 of the following year. DOE’s Office of Analysis is to issue 

annual guidance to all field elements regarding the preparation of the report. 

For the NNSA/NSO, reporting is accomplished through the publication of the NTS ASER, which is titled the

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report (NTSER). 

2.12.1 Compliance Status 

In 2007, the 2006 NTSER was published, posted on the NNSA/NSO Web site, submitted to DOE’s Office of 

Scientific and Technical Information, and mailed to all recipients (on a compact disc accompanied by a 25-page 

summary) during the week of September 17–21. 
 Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-33 

2.13 Summary of Permits 

Table 2-12 presents the complete list of all federal and state permits active during calendar year 2007 that were issued 

to NNSA/NSO and to NSTec for NTS, NLVF, and RSL-Nellis operations and which have been referenced in 

previous subsections of this chapter. The table includes those pertaining to air quality monitoring, operation of 

drinking water and sewage systems, hazardous materials and hazardous waste management and disposal, and 

endangered species protection. Reports associated with these permits are submitted to the appropriate designated 

state or federal office. Copies of reports may be obtained upon request. 

Table 2-12. Environmental permits required for NTS and NTS site facility operations 

Permit 

Number Description Expiration Date Reporting 

Air Quality NTS 

AP9711-0549.01 NTS Class II Air Quality Operating Permit June 25, 2009 Annually 

07-37 NTS Burn Variance (Various Locations) March 13, 2008 None 

07-38 NTS Open Burn Variance, NTS, A-23, Facility #23-T00200 

(NTS Fire & Rescue Training Center) 

March 13, 2008 None 

NLVF

Facility 657, Mod. 3 Clark County Authority to Construct/Operating Permit for a 

Testing Laboratory None March 

RSL-Nellis 

Facility 348, Mod. 2 Clark County Authority to Construct/Operating Permit for a 

Testing Laboratory None March 

NTS Drinking Water 

NY-0360-12NTNC Areas 6 and 23 September 30, 2008 None 

NY-4098-12NTNC Area 25 September 30, 2008 None 

NY-4099-12NTNC Area 12 September 30, 2008 None 

NY-0835-12NP NTS Water Hauler #84846 September 30, 2008 None 

NY-0836-12NP NTS Water Hauler #84847 September 30, 2008 None 

NTS Septic Systems and Pumpers 

NY-1054 Septic System, Area 3 (Waste Management Offices) None None 

NY-1069 Septic System, Area 18 (820th Red Horse Squadron) None None 

NY-1076 Septic System, Area 6 (Airborne Response Team Hangar) None None 

NY-1077 Septic System, Area 27 (Baker Compound) None None 

NY-1079 Septic System, Area 12 (U12g Tunnel) None None 

NY-1080 Septic System, Area 23 (Building 1103) None None 

NY-1081 Septic System, Area 6 (Control Point-170) None None 

NY-1082 Septic System, Area 22 (Building 22-01) None None 

NY-1083 Septic System, Area 5 (Radioactive Material Management 

Site) 

None None 

NY-1084 Septic System, Area 6 (Device Assembly Facility) None None 

NY-1085 Septic System, Area 25 (Central Support Area) None None 

NY-1086 Septic System, Area 25 (Reactor Control Point) None None 

NY-1087 Septic System, Area 27 (Able Compound) None None 

NY-1089 Septic System, Area 12 (Camp) None None 

NY-1090 Septic System, Area 6 (Los Alamos National Laboratory 

Construction Camp Site) 

None None 

NY-1091 Septic System, Area 23 (Gate 100) None None 
Compliance Summary

2-34 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

Table 2-12. Environmental permits required for NTS and NTS site facility operations (continued) 

Permit 

Number Description Expiration Date Reporting

NTS Septic Systems and Pumpers (cont.) 

NY-1103 Septic System, Area 22 (Desert Rock Airport) None None 

NY-1106 Septic System, Area 5 (Hazmat Spill Center) None None 

NY-1110-HAA-A Individual Sewage Disposal System, A-12, Building 12-910 None None 

NY-1112 Commercial Sewage Disposal System, U1a, Area 1 None None 

NY-1113 Commercial Sewage Disposal System, Area 1, Building 121 None None 

NY-1124 Commercial Individual Sewage Disposal System, NTS, 

Area 6 

None None 

NY-1128 Commercial Individual Sewage Disposal System, NTS, 

Area 6, Yucca Lake Project 

None None 

NY-17-03313 Septic Tank Pumper E 106785 July 31, 2008 None 

NY-17-03315 Septic Tank Pumper E 107105 July 31, 2008 None 

NY-17-03317 Septic Tank Pumper E-105918 July 31, 2008 None 

NY-17-03318 Septic Tank Pumping Contractor (one unit) July 31, 2008 None 

NY-17-06838 Septic Tank Pumper E-105919 July 31, 2008 None 

NY-17-06839 Septic Tank Pumper E-107103 July 31, 2008 None 

Wastewater Discharge NTS 

GNEV93001 Water Pollution Control General Permit August 5, 2010 Quarterly 

NEV96021 Water Pollution Control for E-Tunnel Waste Water Disposal 

System and Monitoring Well ER-12-1 

September 25, 2008 Quarterly 

NLVF 

VEH-112 NLVF Wastewater Contribution Permit December 31, 2008 Annually 

NV0023507 North Las Vegas National Pollutant Discharge Elimination 

System Permit 

November 2, 2011 Quarterly 

RSL-Nellis 

CCWRD-080 Industrial Wastewater Discharge Permit June 30, 2008 Quarterly 

Hazardous Materials NTS 

2287-5146 NTS Hazardous Materials February 27, 2008 Annually 

2287-5147 Non-Proliferation Test and Evaluation Complex February 27, 2008 Annually 

NLVF 

2287-5144 NLVF Hazardous Materials Permit February 27, 2008 Annually 

RSL-Nellis 

2287-5145 RSL Hazardous Materials Permit February 27, 2008 Annually 

NTS Hazardous Waste 

NEV-HW0021 NTS Hazardous Waste Management Permit (RCRA) December 1, 2010 Biennially 

0510003453 Utah Generator Site Access Permit November 1, 2008 None 

NTS Waste Management 

U1576-33N-01 RSL-Nellis Waste Management Permit-Underground 

Storage Tank 

December 31, 2008 None 
 Compliance Summary

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 2-35 

Table 2-12. Environmental permits required for NTS and NTS site facility operations (continued) 

Permit 

Number Description Expiration Date Reporting 

NTS Disposal Sites

SW 13 000 01 Area 5 Asbestiform Low-Level Solid Waste Disposal Site Post-closure(a) Annually 

SW 13 097 02 Area 6 Hydrocarbon Disposal Site Post-closure Annually 

SW 13 097 03 Area 9 U10c Solid Waste Disposal Site Post-closure Annually 

SW 13 097 04 Area 23 Solid Waste Disposal Site Post-closure Annually 

Endangered Species/Wildlife/Special Use 

File No. 1-5-96-F-33 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Desert Tortoise Incidental 

Take Authorization (Biological Opinion for Programmatic 

NTS Activities) 

December 31, 2007 Annually 

MB008695-0 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Migratory Bird Scientific 

Collecting Permit 

March 31, 2009 Annually 

MB037277-1 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Migratory Bird Special 

Purpose Possession – Dead Permit 

March 31, 2009 Annually 

S29157 Nevada Division of Wildlife – Scientific Collection of 

Wildlife Samples 

December 31, 2008 Annually 

SUP LAME 25AO 1324 U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service 

Special Use Permit – issued for fly-over missions by RSLNellis over Lake Mead National Recreation Area to establish 

a natural environmental background radiation reference 

standard test line for equipment calibration. 

December 31, 2007 None 

Required 

(a) Permit expires 30 years after closure of the landfill 
Compliance Summary

2-36 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-1 

3.0 Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring 

Section 3.1 of this chapter presents the results of radiological air monitoring conducted on the Nevada Test Site 

(NTS) to ensure compliance with radioactive air emission standards (see Section 2.1). Sources of radioactive air 

emissions from the NTS include evaporation of tritiated water from containment ponds; diffusion of tritiated water 

vapor from the soil at Area 3 and Area 5 Radioactive Waste Management Sites (RWMSs), Sedan crater, and Schooner 

crater; release of tritium gas during equipment calibrations at selected facilities; and resuspension of plutonium and 

americium from contaminated soil at historical nuclear device safety test locations and atmospheric test locations. 

Radiological air monitoring is conducted by National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec), Environmental Technical 

Services. The concentrations of radioactivity in air samples are used to assess radiological dose to the general public 

in the vicinity of the NTS. The assessed dose to the public from all pathways of exposure (i.e., air, water, direct 

radiation exposure, and consumption of game animals) is presented in Section 8.0 (Radiological Dose Assessment). 

An oversight air monitoring program has been established by the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear 

Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) to monitor radionuclide contamination of air within 

communities adjacent to the NTS. This independent program, the Community Environmental Monitoring Program, 

is managed by the University of Nevada’s Desert Research Institute (DRI) of the Nevada System of Higher 

Education. DRI’s 2007 offsite air monitoring results are presented in Section 6.0. 

Section 3.2 of this chapter presents the results of nonradiological air quality assessments conducted on the NTS to 

ensure compliance with current air quality permits (see Section 2.1). NTS operations which are potential sources of 

nonradiological air pollution include aggregate production, surface disturbance (e.g., construction), release of fugitive 

dust from driving on unpaved roads, use of fuel-burning equipment, open burning, venting from bulk fuel storage 

facilities, and releases of various chemicals during testing at the Non-Proliferation Test and Evaluation Complex 

(NPTEC) or at other release areas. Air quality assessments are conducted by NSTec Environmental Services (ES). 

3.1 Radiological Air Monitoring 

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment, and the Clean Air 

Act (CAA) National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) require air monitoring for radiological emissions at the NTS. Radiological air monitoring is conducted to ensure that no significant emission source 

that contributes to calculable offsite exposures is ignored and that the NTS is in full compliance with the requirements 

of DOE Order 5400.5 and the CAA. To accomplish this, an air surveillance network consisting of air particulate 

samplers and samplers for tritium in atmospheric moisture has been established. The objectives and design of the 

network are described in detail in the Routine Radiological Environmental Monitoring Plan (DOE, 2003a). The network 

monitors airborne radioactivity near NTS sites at which radioactivity from past nuclear testing was deposited on and 

in the soil, at NTS operating facilities that may produce radioactive air emissions, and along the NTS boundaries. 

Diffuse radionuclide sources from nuclear testing activities on the Tonopah Test Range (Clean Slate 1, 2, and 3) are 

reported by Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) (SNL, 2007). NNSA/NSO terminated air monitoring at the Clean 

Slate sites in April 2000 and will not resume until active remediation efforts at these sites begin again (SNL, 2007). 

Historic sites on the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) (Double Tracks and Project 57) are currently not being 

monitored; however, air sampling was conducted at Double Tracks during 1996–1999 in support for its remediation 

and at Project 57 in 1997–2000 for surveillance purposes. NTTR air sampling results were reported in past NTS 

Annual Site Environmental Reports available at <http://www.nv.doe.gov/library/publications/environmental.aspx>. 

Data from all current sampling stations are analyzed to meet the specific goals listed below. Also listed below are the 

analytes monitored in order to perform dose assessments. They are the radionuclides most likely to be present in the 

air as a result of past or current NTS operations. These analytes were selected based on the results of NTS 

inventories of radionuclides in surface soil (McArthur, 1991), and upon their volatility and availability for resuspension 

(the half-lives for these radionuclides are found in Table 1-5). Uranium is included on this list because depleted 

uranium (see Glossary, Appendix B) ordnance is used during exercises in Areas 20 and 25. Air samples from selected 

sampling locations in the vicinity of these areas only are analyzed for uranium. Also, gross alpha and gross beta 

readings are used in air monitoring as a rapid screening measure. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

3.1.1 Monitoring System Design 

Environmental Samplers – There are 19 sampling stations referred to as environmental samplers. They include 3 

stations that have only low-volume air particulate samplers, 1 that has only a tritium sampler, and 15 that have both air 

particulate and tritium samplers (Figure 3-1). They are located throughout the NTS in or near the highest diffuse 

radiation sources. Predominant winds were a factor in station placement (for NTS wind rose data, see Section A.3 of 

Attachment A: Site Description, included as a separate file on the compact disc of this 2007 report). The sources 

include areas with (1) radioactivity in surface soil that can be resuspended by the wind, (2) tritium that transpires or 

evaporates from plants and soil at the sites of past nuclear tests, and (3) tritium that evaporates from ponds receiving 

tritiated water either pumped from contaminated wells or directed from tunnels that cannot be sealed shut. Sampling 

and analysis of air particulates and tritium were performed at these stations as described in Section 3.1.2. Radionuclide 

concentrations measured at these stations are used for trending, determining ambient background concentrations in the 

environment, and monitoring for unplanned releases of radioactivity. Air concentrations approaching 10 percent of the 

NESHAP Concentration Levels for Environmental Compliance (compliance levels [CLs]) (second column of 

Table 3-1) are investigated for causes so that they may be mitigated to avoid exceeding regulatory dose limits. 

Critical Receptor Samplers – Six of the 15 samplers which have combined air particulate and tritium sampling 

stations are located near the boundaries and the center of the NTS and are approved by the U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency (EPA) Region IX as critical receptor samplers (Figure 3-1). Radionuclide concentrations measured 

at these six stations are used to assess compliance with the NESHAP dose limit to the public of 10 mrem/yr 

(0.1 mSv/yr). Analysis of air particulate and tritium data obtained at these six stations was performed as described in 

Section 3.1.2 below. The annual average concentrations from each station were then compared with the concentration 

limits listed in Table 3-1. To be in compliance with NESHAP, the annual average concentrations must be less than the 

concentration limits in Table 3-1. If multiple radionuclides are detected at a station, then compliance with NESHAP is 

demonstrated when the sum of the fractions, determined by dividing each radionuclide’s concentration by its 

concentration limit and then adding the fractions together, is less than 1.0.

Radiological Air Monitoring Goals Analytes Monitored 

Americium-241 (241Am) 

Cesium-137 (137Cs) 

Tritium (3H) 

Plutonium-238 (238Pu) 

Plutonium-239+240 (239+240Pu) 

Uranium-233+234 (233+234U) 

Uranium-235+236 (235+236U) 

Uranium-238 (238U) 

Gross alpha radioactivity 

Gross beta radioactivity 

Measure radionuclide concentrations in air at or near historic or 

current operation sites which have the potential to release airborne 

radioactivity to (1) detect and identify local and site-wide trends, (2) 

identify radionuclides emitted to air, and (3) detect accidental and 

unplanned releases. 

Determine if radioactive air emissions from past or present NTS 

activities result in a radiation dose, called the committed effective dose 

equivalent (CEDE) (see Glossary, Appendix B), to any member of the 

public that exceeds the NESHAP standard of 10 millirem per year 

(mrem/yr) (0.1 millisievert per year [mSv/yr]).

Provide point source operational monitoring as required under 

NESHAP for any facility that has the potential to emit radionuclides 

into the air which could cause a dose greater than 0.1 mrem/yr (0.001 

mSv/yr) to any member of the public. 

 

Provide data to determine if radioactive air emissions from past or 

present NTS activities result in a radiation dose to any member of the 

public from all pathways (air, water, food) that exceeds the DOE 

Order 5400.5 standard of 100 mrem/yr (1 mSv/yr). 

239+240Pu, 233+234U, and 235+236U are 

reported as the sum of isotope 

concentrations since the analytical 

method cannot readily distinguish the 

individual isotopes. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-3 

Figure 3-1. Radiological air sampling network on the NTS in 2007
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 3-1. Regulatory concentration limits for radionuclides in air 

 Concentration (x 10-15 microcuries/milliliter [μCi/mL]) 

Radionuclide 

NESHAP Concentration Level for 

Environmental Compliance (CL)(a)

10% of Derived Concentration Guide 

(DCG)(b)

241Am 1.9 2 

137Cs 19 40,000 

3H 1,500,000 10,000,000 

238Pu 2.1 3 

239Pu 2 2 

233U 7.1 9 

234U 7.7 9 

235U 7.1 10 

236U 7.7 10 

238U 8.3 10 

Note: Both the CL values and 10% of the DCG values represent the annual average concentration that 

would result in a CEDE of 10 mrem/yr, which is the federal dose limit to the public from all 

radioactive air emissions. When they differ, the CLs are more conservative than the DCGs. They 

are computed using different dose models. 

(a) From Table 2, Appendix E of 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 61, 1999 

(b) From Chapter 3 of DOE Order 5400.5, 1990, see Glossary, Appendix B for definition. 

Point-Source (Stack) Sampler – One facility on the NTS, the Joint Actinide Shock Physics Experimental Research 

(JASPER) Facility in Area 27 (Figure 3-1), requires stack monitoring because it has the potential to emit airborne 

radionuclides that could result in an offsite radiation dose ≥ 0.1 mrem/yr. Air emissions from the facility are filtered 

through high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) performs 

stack monitoring down-stream of the filter. Environmental sampling of air particulates adjacent to the facility is 

performed as stated in Section 3.1.2. If air concentrations of any man-made radionuclide were found in stack 

monitoring samples above the minimum detectable concentration (MDC), (see Glossary, Appendix B), an assessment 

of offsite dose to the public would be performed to determine NESHAP compliance and LLNL would investigate the 

cause of the emission and implement corrective actions. 

3.1.2 Air Particulate and Tritium Sampling Methods 

A weekly sample of airborne particulates was collected from each air sampling station by drawing air through a 

10-centimeter (cm) (4-inch) diameter glass-fiber filter at a flow rate of about 85 liters per minute (L/min) (3 cubic feet 

[ft3] per minute). The particulate filter is mounted in a filter holder that faces downward at a height of 1.5 meters (m) 

(5 feet [ft]) above ground. A run-time clock measures the operating time. The run time, multiplied by 85 L/min 

yields the volume of air sampled, which is about 860 cubic meters (m3) (30,000 ft3) during a typical seven-day 

sampling period. The air sampling rates were measured at the start and end of each sampling period with mass-flow 

meters which are calibrated annually. 

The 10-cm diameter filters were analyzed for gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity after a five-day holding time to 

allow for the decay of naturally occurring radon progeny. The filters collected within each month were composited 

for each station, analyzed by gamma spectroscopy, and then analyzed for 239+240Pu and 241Am by alpha spectroscopy 

after radiochemical separation. To monitor for any potential emissions from exercises using depleted uranium, the 

filter composites from Yucca (Area 6), Substation 3545 (Area 16), Gate 20-2p (Area 20), Gate 510 (Area 25), and 

Able Site (Area 27) were also analyzed for uranium isotopes by alpha spectroscopy. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-5 

Tritiated water vapor in the form of 3H3HO or 3HHO (collectively referred to as HTO) was sampled continuously 

over two-week periods at each tritium sampling station. Tritium samplers were operated with elapsed time meters at a 

flow rate of about 566 cubic centimeters per minute (1.2 ft3 per hour). The total volume sampled is determined from 

the product of the sampling period and the flow rate (about 11 m3 [14.4 cubic yards] over a two-week sampling 

period). The HTO was removed from the airstream by two molecular sieve columns connected in series (one for 

routine collection and a second to indicate if breakthrough occurred through the first column during collection). 

These columns were exchanged biweekly. An aliquot of the total moisture collected was extracted from the first 

column and analyzed for tritium by liquid scintillation counting. In all cases, measured activity in units per sample are 

converted to units per volume of air prior to reporting in the following sections. 

Routine quality control air samples (e.g., duplicates, blanks, and spikes) are also incorporated into the analytical suites 

on a frequent basis. The reader is directed to Section 18.0 for a discussion of quality assurance/quality control 

protocols and procedures utilized for radiological air monitoring. 

3.1.3 Presentation of Air Sampling Data 

The annual average concentration for each radionuclide at each sampling location is presented in data tables in the 

following results sections. The annual average concentration for each radionuclide was calculated from uncensored 

analytical results for individual samples; i.e., values less than the sample-specific MDC were included in the 

calculation. A column is included in each table indicating the percentage of the analytical results that were greater 

than their analysis-specific MDCs. 

Annual average concentrations are also expressed in the tables as percentages of the CL (the second column of 

Table 3-1). In graphs of concentration data, the CL or some percentage of the CL is included as a green horizontal 

line. The CL for each radionuclide was used instead of the DCG, as it was always the lesser of the two for those 

radionuclides for which these limits differed. The CL (or fraction thereof) is shown in graphs for reference only and 

not to demonstrate compliance with NESHAP dose limits; assessment of compliance is based upon annual average 

concentrations, not upon the single measurement results shown in the graphs. 

For convenience in reporting, values shown in the tables in the following result sections are frequently formatted to a 

greater number of significant digits than can be justified by the accuracy of the measurements, which is typically two 

significant figures (e.g., 2500, 25, 2.5, or 0.025). 

3.1.4 Air Sampling Results from Environmental Samplers 

All elevated radionuclide concentrations in the 2007 air samples shown in the tables and graphs are attributed to the 

resuspension of legacy contamination in surface soils and to the evaporation and transpiration of tritium from the soil 

and plants at sites of past nuclear tests and of low-level radioactive waste burial. 

Monitoring results for the point-source station at JASPER are included in the tables in this section. These results are 

not included in NTS-wide averages of air concentrations due to legacy contamination. 

3.1.4.1 Americium-241 

During 2007, 27 percent of 241Am measurements exceeded their MDCs (Table 3-2). This is somewhat lower than 

during 2006, 2005, and 2004 (40, 35, and 41 percent respectively). The mean concentration over all locations was 

13 x 10-18 μCi/mL, similarly lower than preceding years. The highest concentrations are again found at Bunker 9-300 

(Figure 3-2), located within an area of known soil contamination from past nuclear tests. The annual mean 

concentration at Bunker 9-300 was 46 x 10-18 μCi/mL, which is 2.4 percent of the CL. 

 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 3-2. Concentrations of 241Am in air samples collected in 2007 

 241Am (x 10-18 μCi/mL) 

NTS 

Area Location 

 Number of 

 Samples Mean 

 % of 

CL (a) Median SD (b) Min (c) Max (d)

 Mean 

 MDC 

% > 

MDC 

1 BJY 12 3.13 0.2 3.95 2.28 -0.40 6.79 7.34 25.0 

3 U-3ah/at N 12 8.56 0.5 5.22 8.72 -1.69 23.62 9.30 50.0 

3 U-3ah/at S 12 10.29 0.5 8.80 9.84 -4.40 26.57 8.56 50.0 

3 U-3bh N 12 5.91 0.3 5.80 5.20 -1.67 19.09 9.06 33.3 

3 U-3bh S 12 6.35 0.3 5.70 5.20 -2.38 17.42 9.50 33.3 

5 DoD 12 1.98 0.1 2.62 2.10 -1.70 5.95 7.93 20.8 

5 Sugar Bunker N 12 1.31 0.1 1.15 1.81 -1.09 4.43 6.67 8.3 

6 Yucca 11 3.28 0.2 3.78 3.49 -1.76 10.39 8.92 18.2 

9 Bunker 9-300 12 46.34 2.4 41.76 44.90 -2.42 128.24 8.07 66.7 

10 Gate 700 S 12 11.69 0.6 3.47 29.84 -1.00 106.17 8.40 20.8 

10 Sedan N 12 12.38 0.7 3.15 29.34 -0.84 104.46 8.04 25.0 

16 3545 Substation 11 0.82 0.0 1.54 3.50 -5.54 6.65 9.90 9.1 

18 Little Feller 2 N 12 7.46 0.4 1.91 20.66 -2.97 72.49 8.47 16.7 

20 Gate 20-2P 11 3.12 0.2 2.55 2.97 -1.57 8.69 7.56 13.6 

20 Schooner 12 1.69 0.1 2.73 3.61 -6.51 7.04 7.03 16.7 

23 Mercury Track 12 4.59 0.2 2.73 6.29 0.32 22.99 5.41 41.7 

25 Gate 510 11 1.18 0.1 1.65 3.05 -4.97 6.17 8.61 0.0 

27 ABLE Site 11 1.68 0.1 0.85 3.21 -3.34 7.67 9.30 22.7 

All Environmental Samplers 211 7.45 0.4 2.80 18.50 -6.51 128.24 8.21 26.5 

27 JASPER Stack 11 12.56 0.7 15.63 52.01 -107.35 75.87 109.53 0.0 

 Green shading indicates that some percentage of samples had concentrations above the sample-specific MDC. 

 (a) CL is the NESHAP Concentration Level for Environmental Compliance (see Table 3-1). 

 (b) Standard deviation (c) Minimum (d) Maximum

 Note: The CL for 241Am is 1,900 x 10-18 μCi/mL. 

241Am

0

50

100

150

200

01-Jan-07

02-Apr-07

02-Jul-07

01-Oct-07

01-Jan-08

Collection Date

x 10-18 μCi/mL

Bunker 9-300

Gate 700 S

Sedan N

Little Feller 2 N

Other

10% of CL

Figure 3-2. Concentrations of 241Am in air samples collected in 2007 

Blue-shaded locations are EPA-approved critical receptor sampler stations.

The orange-shaded location is a point-source sampler station.

Non-shaded locations are environmental sampler stations.
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-7 

3.1.4.2 Cesium-137 

During 2007, only one 137Cs measurement exceeded its MDC (Table 3-3). Mean values for all environmental 

locations were near zero, slightly more negative than positive. No plot is provided because of the low measurement 

levels. 

Table 3-3. Concentrations of 137Cs in air samples collected in 2007

3.1.4.3 Plutonium Isotopes 

During 2007, 10 percent of 238Pu measurements exceeded their MDCs (Table 3-4), somewhat fewer than during 2006 

and 2005. The overall mean concentration (1.9 x 10-18 μCi/mL) was similarly lower. No one station appears to be 

consistently higher than all others, unlike 2006 when Bunker 9-300 was notably higher. The highest mean 

concentration at any station (5.3 x 10-18 μCi/mL at Bunker 9-300) was only 0.3 percent of the CL (see Table 3-4 and 

Figure 3-3).

 137Cs (x 10-17 μCi/mL) 

NTS 

Area Location 

 Number of 

 Samples Mean 

% of 

 CL (a) Median SD (b) Min (c) Max (d)

Mean

MDC

% > 

MDC

1 BJY 12 -2.79 -0.1 -0.22 17.67 -27.74 24.37 68.22 0.0 

3 U-3ah/at N 12 -1.72 -0.1 -6.23 25.05 -43.03 33.53 58.96 0.0 

3 U-3ah/at Ss 11 -3.48 -0.2 -8.82 30.37 -52.33 47.12 65.34 0.0 

3 U-3bh N 12 12.66 0.7 8.52 16.52 -8.41 48.87 62.34 0.0 

3 U-3bh S 12 5.23 0.3 -2.29 30.65 -35.19 58.96 59.14 8.3 

5 DoD 12 -6.47 -0.3 -7.30 29.28 -64.04 39.72 58.62 0.0 

5 Sugar Bunker N 12 -6.42 -0.3 -18.30 28.64 -32.26 61.43 65.74 0.0 

6 Yucca 12 4.04 0.2 4.31 14.34 -22.49 31.09 58.30 0.0 

9 Bunker 9-300 11 0.90 0.0 3.13 15.68 -22.96 26.58 65.79 0.0 

10 Gate 700 S 12 -5.67 -0.3 -5.61 18.31 -33.48 25.36 68.71 0.0 

10 Sedan N 12 0.18 0.0 4.19 18.61 -29.47 25.19 61.73 0.0 

16 3545 Substation 12 8.94 0.5 5.27 22.78 -24.78 37.55 66.80 0.0 

18 Little Feller 2 N 12 -5.22 -0.3 -2.70 26.18 -62.19 32.27 60.46 0.0 

20 Gate 20-2P 12 2.98 0.2 -2.61 17.87 -21.83 37.59 67.89 0.0 

20 Schooner 11 -1.34 -0.1 -4.57 23.31 -45.44 39.78 60.36 0.0 

23 Mercury Track 12 4.19 0.2 -2.42 34.46 -46.44 87.82 63.39 0.0 

25 Gate 510 12 -6.42 -0.3 -12.34 22.23 -33.81 37.49 57.78 0.0 

27 ABLE Site 12 -7.19 -0.4 -13.86 25.48 -48.18 43.21 63.00 0.0 

All Environmental Samplers 213 -0.41 0.0 -2.56 23.61 -64.04 87.82 62.91 0.5 

27 JASPER Stack 12 -201.92 -10.6 -128.87 303.28 -1071.79 138.14 956.99 0.0 

Note: The CL for 137Cs is 1,900 x 10-17μCi/mL.

Blue-shaded locations are EPA-approved critical receptor sampler stations. 

The orange-shaded location is a point-source sampler station. 

Non-shaded locations are environmental sampler stations. 

Green shading indicates that some percentage of samples had concentrations above the sample-specific MDC. 

(a) CL is the NESHAP Concentration Level for Environmental Compliance (see Table 3-1). 

(b) Standard deviation 

(c) Minimum 

(d) Maximum 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 3-4. Concentrations of 238Pu in air samples collected in 2007

 238Pu (x 10-18 μCi/mL) 

NTS 

Area Location 

 Number of 

 Samples Mean 

% of 

CL (a) Median SD (b) Min (c) Max (d)

Mean 

MDC 

% > 

MDC 

1 BJY 12 2.44 0.1 0.62 3.41 -0.91 8.74 7.59 8.3 

3 U-3ah/at N 12 0.58 0.0 1.02 2.25 -2.94 5.06 6.38 16.7 

3 U-3ah/at S 12 2.33 0.1 2.09 3.35 -2.81 10.83 5.79 16.7 

3 U-3bh N 12 1.35 0.1 1.08 1.62 -0.79 3.92 7.86 8.3 

3 U-3bh S 12 0.73 0.0 0.69 2.26 -4.14 5.10 7.51 0.0 

5 DoD 12 1.26 0.1 0.46 2.03 -0.57 5.89 7.83 8.3 

5 Sugar Bunker N 12 4.09 0.2 0.57 9.19 -0.52 32.13 13.70 0.0 

6 Yucca 12 2.35 0.1 0.42 4.93 -0.86 16.48 7.73 20.8 

9 Bunker 9-300 12 5.26 0.3 4.02 3.67 1.06 12.66 5.23 41.7 

10 Gate 700 S 12 2.33 0.1 0.71 4.64 -3.63 13.35 6.82 12.5 

10 Sedan N 11 3.45 0.2 2.46 5.17 -3.20 17.13 7.34 18.2 

16 3545 Substation 12 1.26 0.1 0.66 1.95 -0.90 4.22 7.73 0.0 

18 Little Feller 2 N 12 2.29 0.1 0.71 3.62 -2.06 9.65 8.30 0.0 

20 Gate 20-2P 12 2.44 0.1 0.63 4.16 -1.33 11.14 8.06 0.0 

20 Schooner 12 1.30 0.1 0.81 2.42 -1.99 6.89 6.50 16.7 

23 Mercury Track 12 0.97 0.0 0.26 2.78 -1.53 8.49 7.18 0.0 

25 Gate 510 11 -0.29 0.0 -0.31 1.70 -3.96 3.12 7.03 0.0 

27 ABLE Site 12 0.06 0.0 -0.03 1.90 -3.86 3.90 7.42 8.3 

All Environmental Samplers 214 1.90 0.1 0.70 3.92 -4.14 32.13 7.56 9.8 

27 JASPER Stack 12 17.18 0.8 7.68 29.20 -22.03 85.74 98.73 0.0 

Blue-shaded locations are EPA-approved critical receptor sampler stations. 

The orange-shaded location is a point-source sampler station.

Non-shaded locations are environmental sampler stations.

Green shading indicates that some percentage of samples had concentrations above the sample-specific MDC.

(a) CL is the NESHAP Concentration Level for Environmental Compliance (see Table 3-1). 

(b) Standard deviation (c) Minimum (d) Maximum

Note: The CL for 238Pu is 2,100 x 10-18 μCi/mL. 

Figure 3-3. Concentrations of 238Pu in air samples collected in 2007

238Pu

-10

0

10

20

30

40

01-Jan-07

02-Apr-07

02-Jul-07

01-Oct-07

01-Jan-08

Collection Date

x 10-18 μCi/mL

Sugar Bunker N

Sedan N

Bunker 9-300

Other

2% of CL
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-9 

The isotopes 239+240Pu (analytical methods cannot readily distinguish between the 239Pu and 240Pu) are of greater 

abundance and hence greater interest. Overall, 47 percent of measurements exceeded their MDCs (Table 3-5). The 

overall mean of 39 x 10-18 μCi/mL is considerably lower than in 2006 and 2005 (138 and 148 x 10-18 μCi/mL 

respectively) but similar to levels seen previously (48, 38, and 55 x 10-18 μCi/mL in 2004, 2003, and 2002 respectively). 

The highest location is again Bunker 9-300, with an annual mean of 279 x 10-18 μCi/mL; this is 14 percent of the CL 

(see Table 3-5 and Figure 3-4). The relatively high plutonium values observed at the Bunker 9-300 air sampling 

station are due to diffuse sources of radionuclides from historical nuclear testing in Area 9 and surrounding Areas 3, 4, 

and 7. 

The temporal patterns for 241Am, 238Pu, and 239+240Pu at Bunker 9-300 shown in Figures 3-2, 3-3, and 3-4 are 

correlated. This is because 241Am is the long-lived daughter product obtained when 241Pu (a short-lived isotope 

created along with the more common Pu isotopes) decays by beta emission. Hence, both 239+240Pu and 241Am (and 

also 238Pu) tend to be found together in particles of Pu remaining from past nuclear tests. The half-life of 241Pu is 

14.4 years, whereas that of 241Am is 432 years; consequently, the concentrations of 241Am in NTS soils will gradually 

increase for about 80 years and then decrease. These isotopes become airborne by soil disturbances. 

Table 3-5. Concentrations of 239+240Pu in air samples collected in 2007 

 239+240Pu (x 10-18 μCi/mL) 

NTS 

Area Location 

 Number of 

 Samples Mean 

% of 

CL (a) Median SD (b) Min (c) Max (d)

Mean

MDC 

% > 

MDC 

1 BJY 12 17.08 0.9 14.36 12.80 2.25 49.88 7.83 75.0 

3 U-3ah/at N 12 57.07 2.9 33.34 69.75 2.85 218.12 6.44 75.0 

3 U-3ah/at S 12 63.92 3.2 47.56 59.55 0.19 186.66 6.87 91.7 

3 U-3bh N 12 26.17 1.3 23.34 23.67 4.56 85.96 8.13 66.7 

3 U-3bh S 12 27.33 1.4 21.40 23.18 1.86 86.08 6.77 83.3 

5 DoD 12 1.05 0.1 1.20 2.14 -3.65 4.40 7.03 16.7 

5 Sugar Bunker N 12 3.11 0.2 3.17 2.49 -0.03 6.57 12.66 41.7 

6 Yucca 12 11.13 0.6 5.41 18.92 0.26 69.39 7.16 41.7 

9 Bunker 9-300 12 279.34 14.0 202.03 285.02 15.51 872.88 6.28 100.0 

10 Gate 700 S 12 58.80 2.9 4.82 183.05 -0.01 639.79 6.56 54.2 

10 Sedan N 11 91.82 4.6 19.24 241.93 0.72 819.91 8.59 72.7 

16 3545 Substation 12 15.14 0.8 1.87 46.88 -2.57 163.83 7.06 29.2 

18 Little Feller 2 N 12 33.48 1.7 6.19 94.18 -1.05 332.15 7.95 41.7 

20 Gate 20-2P 12 1.18 0.1 1.27 1.28 -1.33 3.63 7.05 0.0 

20 Schooner 12 1.73 0.1 1.43 2.92 -2.07 6.90 8.75 8.3 

23 Mercury Track 12 9.87 0.5 1.24 29.50 -1.08 103.40 6.45 16.7 

25 Gate 510 12 2.79 0.1 2.32 4.02 -2.41 13.18 6.58 25.0 

27 ABLE Site 12 2.68 0.1 2.96 4.10 -5.96 11.42 8.09 16.7 

All Environmental Samplers 215 38.85 1.9 4.96 117.69 -5.96 872.88 7.56 47.4 

27 JASPER Stack 9 37.26 1.9 31.06 36.71 -25.61 85.74 149.11 0.0 

Blue-shaded locations are EPA-approved critical receptor sampler stations.

The orange-shaded location is a point-source sampler station.

Non-shaded locations are environmental sampler stations.

Green shading indicates that some percentage of samples had concentrations above the sample-specific MDC. 

(a) CL is the NESHAP Concentration Level for Environmental Compliance (see Table 3-1). 

(b) Standard deviation 

(c) Minimum 

(d) Maximum 

Note: The CL for 239+240Pu is 2,000 x 10-18 μCi/mL. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

239+240Pu

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

01-Jan-07

02-Apr-07

02-Jul-07

01-Oct-07

01-Jan-08

Collection Date

x 10-18 μCi/mL

Bunker 9-300

Sedan N

Gate 700 S

Little Feller 2 N

Other

50% of CL

Figure 3-4. Concentrations of 239+240Pu in air samples collected in 2007 

Figure 3-5 shows long-term trends in 239+240Pu annual mean concentrations at locations with at least 15-year data 

histories since 1970. Rather than showing the time histories for all 42 locations, Figure 3-5 shows the annual highest 

mean for any station in its “area group” (geographically contiguous group of NTS Areas). The estimated average 

annual rates of decline for the area groups range from 3.6 percent for Areas 1 and 3 and 4.9 percent for Areas 7, 9, 10, 

and 15 to 17.2 percent for Areas 19 and 20. These rates are all considerably faster than can be attributed to 

radioactive decay, as the half-lives of 239Pu and 240Pu are 24,110 and 6,537 years, respectively. The decreases are 

therefore attributed to immobilization of Pu particles in soil and/or decrease in activities that result from soil 

resuspension. The half-life of the relatively less abundant 238Pu is 88 years. Figure 3-6 shows the average (geometric 

mean) trend lines by area group for all stations with at least 15-year histories in that area group. 

Highest Annual Mean for 239+240Pu by Area Group

1

10

100

1000

10000

1970 1980 1990 2000 2010

Year

Annual Mean (x 10 -18 μCi/mL)

Areas 1-3

Areas 2-12-16

Area 5 non-RWMC

Area 5 RWMC

Areas 6-11

Areas 7-9-10-15

Areas 19-20

Area 23

Areas 25-27

CL

Figure 3-5. Long-term trends in average annual mean 239+240Pu for NTS area groups
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-11 

239+240Pu Trends by Area Group

Average Trend Lines for Locations With at Least 15-Year Histories

0

50

100

150

200

250

1970 1980 1990 2000 2010

Year

Annual Mean (x 10 -18 μCi/mL)

Areas 1-3

Areas 2-12-16

Area 5 non-RWMC

Area 5 RWMC

Areas 6-11

Areas 7-9-10-15

Areas 19-20

Area 23

Areas 25-27

10% of CL

Figure 3-6. Fitted average long-term trends in 239+240Pu geometric-mean values by NTS area groups 

3.1.4.4 Uranium Isotopes 

Uranium analyses by radiochemistry were performed for samples from five stations. Exercises using depleted 

uranium ordnance have been conducted in Areas 20 and 25. The annual mean concentrations are shown in Table 3-6. 

Note that the scale factor in Table 3-6 is the same for 233+234U and 238U, but an order of magnitude lower for 235+236U. 

All 233+234U and 238U measurements exceeded their MDCs, and 48 percent of measurements exceeded the MDC for 

235+236U. Mean concentrations of 233+234U and 235+236U isotopes are similar to those for 2006; the mean concentration 

for 235+236U is slightly higher than 2006. These mean concentrations remain around 2.6 percent of the CLs for 233+234U 

and 238U and at most 0.2 percent of the CL for 235+236U. No substantial or statistically significant differences were 

observed between stations. 

The ratios of the isotope concentrations are given in Table 3-7, and Table 3-8 presents the values expected of those 

ratios for uranium from different sources. Medians of both the 238U/233+234U and 238U/235+236U ratios are below the 

expected value for natural uranium in the direction of enriched uranium, the 238U/233+234U ratio vary slightly and the 

238U/235+236U ratio somewhat more so, although not as much as with the 2006 or 2005 data. Because of the relatively 

large degree of uncertainty associated with measurements of very low concentrations of 235+236U, the 238U/233+234U 

mean ratio is taken to be a more reliable indication of the source of the uranium, which appears to be essentially 

natural. In particular, there is no suggestion of any contribution from depleted uranium. 

Table 3-6. Concentrations of uranium isotopes in air samples collected in 2007 

 233+234U (x 10-17 μCi/mL) 

NTS 

Area Location 

 Number of

 Samples Mean 

% of 

CL (a) Median SD (b) Min (c) Max (d)

Mean

MDC 

% > 

MDC 

6 Yucca 12 18.04 2.5 18.09 3.21 11.21 22.60 1.87 100.0 

16 3545 Substation 12 18.98 2.7 19.89 3.36 14.38 26.59 1.51 100.0 

20 Gate 20-2P 12 18.30 2.6 16.40 4.25 13.60 25.56 1.62 100.0 

25 Gate 510 12 19.76 2.8 19.61 6.51 11.06 37.82 1.76 100.0 

27 ABLE Site 12 19.76 2.8 20.44 5.34 10.60 28.23 2.31 100.0 

 All Locations 60 18.97 2.7 19.37 4.59 10.60 37.82 1.82 100.0 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 3-6. Concentrations of uranium isotopes in air samples collected in 2007 (continued) 

 235+236U (x 10-18 μCi/mL)

NTS 

Area Location 

 Number of 

 Samples Mean 

% of 

CL (a) Median Std (b) Min (c) Max (d)

Mean 

MDC 

% >

MDC

6 Yucca 12 9.98 0.1 11.06 4.81 -1.87 15.39 15.88 41.7 

16 3545 Substation 12 12.37 0.2 12.06 4.93 5.30 19.97 11.42 54.2 

20 Gate 20-2P 12 10.49 0.1 10.65 6.05 0.00 21.88 15.20 54.2 

25 Gate 510 12 12.50 0.2 10.25 11.80 -2.56 46.26 15.44 45.8 

27 ABLE Site 12 8.88 0.1 8.35 6.26 0.00 18.92 18.80 41.7 

 All Locations 60 10.84 0.2 10.20 7.14 -2.56 46.26 15.35 47.5 

 238U (x 10-17 μCi/mL)

6 Yucca 12 17.72 2.1 18.09 2.58 13.07 20.91 1.82 100.0 

16 3545 Substation 12 18.31 2.2 18.12 3.34 13.52 25.58 1.43 100.0 

20 Gate 20-2P 12 18.36 2.2 19.57 2.81 13.02 21.69 1.67 100.0 

25 Gate 510 12 30.37 3.7 19.42 41.23 11.88 160.90 1.44 100.0 

27 ABLE Site 12 20.00 2.4 20.07 3.12 15.01 26.36 1.81 100.0 

 All Locations 60 20.95 2.5 19.19 18.62 11.88 160.90 1.63 100.0 

Blue-shaded locations are EPA-approved critical receptor sampler stations.

Non-shaded locations are environmental sampler stations.

Green shading indicates that some percentage of samples had concentrations above the sample specific MDC.

(a) CL is the NESHAP Concentration Level for Environmental Compliance (see Table 3-1).

(b) Standard deviation

(c) Minimum

(d) Maximum

Note: The CL for 233+234U is about 710 x 10-17 μCi/mL.

 The CL for 235+236U is about 7,100 x 10-18 μCi/mL. 

 The CL for 238U is 830 x 10-17 μCi/mL. 

Table 3-7. Observed values of uranium isotope ratios in 2007 

Isotope Ratio Values 

 238U / 233+234U 238U / 235+236U 

Median (95% CI) 0.98 (0.94, 1.02) 17.7 (15.4, 20.3) 

 Table 3-8. Expected ratios of uranium isotopes by type of source 

Expected Isotope Ratios Source 238U / 233+234U 238U / 235+236U 

Natural ~1.0 ~21 

Enriched ~0.1 ~5.2 

Depleted ~0.9 ~62 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-13 

3.1.4.5 Tritium 

Measurements of tritium (3H) in air vary widely across the NTS. Overall 43 percent of atmospheric moisture samples 

have 3H concentrations above their MDCs (Table 3-9); this proportion ranges from 100 percent at Schooner and E 

Tunnel Pond to less than 4 percent at 3545 Substation and Gate 510. 

The highest mean concentration was found at Schooner (285 x 10-6 picocuries per milliliter [pCi/mL]). The next 

highest are 7.0 x 10-6 pCi/mL at Sedan N and 4.8 x 10-6 pCi/mL at E Tunnel Pond 2 (Figure 3-7). Note that the 

Schooner values are plotted at one-tenth their actual values in order to allow the variation at other locations to be 

visible. The Schooner annual mean is 19 percent of the CL. The mean concentrations at other locations are at most 

0.5 percent of the CL. 

Table 3-9. Concentrations of 3H in air samples collected in 2007 

 3H Concentration (x 10-6 pCi/mL) 

NTS 

Area Location 

 Number of 

 Samples Mean 

% of 

 CL (a) Median SD (b) Min (c) Max (d)

Mean

MDC 

% >

MDC

1 BJY 25 0.85 0.1 0.75 0.64 0.06 2.42 0.69 56.0 

3 U-3ah/at S 26 1.01 0.1 0.81 0.86 0.05 3.82 0.69 61.5 

3 U-3bh N 25 0.72 0.0 0.64 0.44 -0.17 1.72 0.70 52.0 

5 DoD 26 0.44 0.0 0.35 0.34 -0.21 1.17 0.75 19.2 

5 Sugar Bunker N 26 0.64 0.0 0.59 0.33 -0.01 1.34 0.73 42.3 

6 Yucca 26 0.51 0.0 0.39 0.38 -0.14 1.32 0.70 23.1 

9 Bunker 9-300 26 1.92 0.1 1.62 1.53 0.12 6.23 0.69 76.9 

10 Gate 700 S 25 0.48 0.0 0.46 0.42 -0.74 1.35 0.71 26.0 

10 Sedan N 26 6.97 0.5 3.47 6.58 0.16 20.20 0.69 92.3 

12 E Tunnel Pond 2 15 26 4.82 0.3 4.25 2.97 0.86 12.65 0.66 

16 3545 Substation 26 0.43 0.0 0.37 0.30 -0.15 1.28 0.68 3.8 

18 Little Feller 2 N 25 0.38 0.0 0.37 0.24 -0.17 0.78 0.74 8.0 

20 Gate 20-2P 26 0.38 0.0 0.41 0.31 -0.31 1.15 0.68 11.5 

20 Schooner 26 285.32 19.0 166.50 296.59 9.04 838.00 0.69 100.0 

23 Mercury Track 26 0.42 0.0 0.34 0.40 -0.10 1.63 0.76 9.6 

25 Gate 510 26 0.30 0.0 0.27 0.23 -0.14 0.75 0.75 3.8 

 All Environmental Samplers 412 19.28 1.3 0.58 100.68 -0.74 838.00 0.71 43.0 

Blue-shaded locations are EPA-approved critical receptor sampler stations.

Non-shaded locations are environmental sampler stations.

Green shading indicates that some percentage of samples had concentrations above the sample-specific MDC. 

(a) CL is the NESHAP Concentration Level for Environmental Compliance (see Table 3-1). 

(b) Standard deviation 

(c) Minimum 

(d) Maximum 

Note: The CL for 3H is 1,500 x 106 pCi/mL. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-14 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

3

H and Schooner Temperature

0

20

40

60

80

01-Jan-07

02-Apr-07

02-Jul-07

01-Oct-07

01-Jan-08

Collection Date

x 10-6 pCi/mL

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

oF

Schooner x 0.1

Sedan N

E Tunnel Pond

Other

5% of CL

Temperature

Figure 3-7. Concentrations of 3H in air samples collected in 2007 and Pahute Mesa air temperature 

The tritium found at Schooner, Sedan N, and E Tunnel Pond 2 comes primarily from 3H used in past nuclear tests. 

During detonations, the 3H is oxidized into tritiated water, which remains in the ejecta from the craters and the rubble 

in tunnel shafts until it evaporates. The rate of evaporation increases as the temperature increases during the summer 

months, with some lag to allow for heating of the soil; conversely, rainfall can temporarily suppress the evaporation by 

saturating the soil and diluting the surface moisture with rain water. Figure 3-7 shows the relationship between 3H 

measurements and the average daily temperature at Pahute Mesa, where Schooner is located; Figure 3-8 shows the 

time and amount of precipitation events in that area. 

3

H and Schooner Precipitation

0

20

40

60

80

01-Jan-07

02-Apr-07

02-Jul-07

01-Oct-07

01-Jan-08

Collection Date

x 10-6 pCi/mL

0.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

2.5

Inches

Schooner x 0.1

Sedan N

E Tunnel Pond

Other

5% of CL

Precipitation

Figure 3-8. Concentrations of 3H in air samples collected in 2007 and Pahute Mesa precipitation
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-15 

Figure 3-9 shows long-term trends for the annual mean tritium levels at all locations with at least seven-year histories 

since 1989, color-coded by NTS Area. At most locations, the 3H measurements have been decreasing fairly rapidly 

from year to year; the average decline rate is around 13 percent per year across all locations. Of stations with means in 

excess of 1 percent of the CL in 1990, the annual rate of decrease ranges from 55 percent at one station in Mercury 

(no longer monitored) to around 7 percent at a few stations near the Area 5 RWMS and Sedan Crater. These figures 

and patterns differ somewhat from those in the 2006 NTSER (DOE, 2007b); several of the newer stations now have 

enough history to be included in the “7+ years” category, so the starting point was moved up to 1990, consequently 

dropping a few stations no longer being monitored. 

Figure 3-9. Average long-term trends in 3H at locations having at least 7 years of data 

The exception to the generally decreasing trend occurs at Schooner, where on average, the air concentrations of 3H 

have been increasing at an average rate of 6 percent per year. As Figure 3-10 shows, however, this is not a consistent 

trend, but rather appears to be related to the temperatures on Pahute Mesa during the summer months. There are 

suggestions that there may be influences due to seasonal precipitation as well. 

Schooner Tritium vs Temperature

100

200

300

400

500

1997 2001 2005 2009

Tritium (x 10 -6 pCi/mL)

65

66

67

68

69

70

71

72

73

74

Temperature (oF)

Tritium in Air

Jun-Sep mean temp

Figure 3-10. Tritium emissions at Schooner and June–September average temperatures at Pahute Mesa 

3

H Annual Mean Long-Term Trends

All Locations With at Least 7-Year Histories Since 1989

Data before 1999 adjusted

0

10

20

30

40

50

1988 1993 1998 2003 2008 2013

Year

x 10 -

6

 pCi/mL

Area 1

Area 5

Areas 6-9-10-12

Areas 15-16-18

Schooner x 0.1

Areas 23-25

1% of CL
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-16 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

3.1.4.6 Gross Alpha and Gross Beta 

The concentrations of gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity in air samples collected from all environmental 

samplers in 2007 are shown in Tables 3-10 and 3-11 and Figures 3-11 and 3-12. Since these radioactivity 

measurements include naturally occurring radionuclides (e.g. 40K, 7Be, uranium, thorium, and the daughter isotopes of 

uranium and thorium) in uncertain proportions, a meaningful CL cannot be constructed. These analyses are useful in 

that they can be performed just five days after sample collection to identify any increases requiring investigation. 

Overall, 26 percent of gross alpha measurements exceeded their MDCs, fewer than during 2006 and 2005. The 

overall mean measurement at Bunker 9-300 is slightly higher than those for the other stations (Table 3-10) and 

represents a decrease from the higher mean concentrations at Bunker 9-300 in 2005 and 2006. The maximum 

concentration was also higher than those of the other stations; however, the frequency by which this occurred 

throughout the year (Figure 3-11) was less than that reported in 2005 and 2006. 

Nearly all of the gross beta measurements exceeded their MDCs in 2007, consistent with past years. The overall mean 

value is somewhat lower than that of 2006, similar to gross alpha results. There are no outstanding values to highlight 

in Figure 3-12. The week-to-week parallel variation between sampling locations is much more pronounced with gross 

beta than with gross alpha, which continues the pattern of prior years. 

 Table 3-10. Gross alpha radioactivity in air samples collected in 2007 

The orange-shaded location is a point-source sampler station.

Non-shaded locations are environmental sampler stations.

Green shading indicates that some percentage of samples had concentrations above the sample-specific MDC. 

(a) Standard deviation 

(b) Minimum 

(c) Maximum 

 Gross Alpha (x 10-16 μCi/mL) 

NTS 

Area Location 

 Number of 

 Samples Mean Median SD (a) Min (b) Max (c)

Mean 

MDC 

% > 

MDC 

1 BJY 50 19.91 19.15 9.70 2.02 38.72 29.61 25.0 

3 U-3ah/at N 52 21.14 22.27 13.90 -8.30 50.40 28.96 30.8 

3 U-3ah/at S 52 23.49 19.65 13.48 2.23 58.80 28.94 36.5 

3 U-3bh N 51 19.20 16.90 12.20 -5.71 46.04 29.24 25.5 

3 U-3bh S 52 19.42 20.29 10.82 -2.72 49.57 28.92 19.2 

5 DoD 52 18.86 17.51 11.74 -4.45 44.52 28.92 28.8 

5 Sugar Bunker N 52 24.65 23.20 13.07 -3.29 56.07 29.51 36.5 

6 Yucca 52 23.32 22.84 11.35 3.82 51.25 29.07 34.6 

9 Bunker 9-300 51 30.00 27.43 21.08 5.67 123.76 28.93 45.1 

10 Gate 700 S 49 18.79 18.13 11.56 -3.46 45.38 28.97 29.6 

10 Sedan N 52 21.44 20.44 16.08 -4.54 101.91 29.02 28.8 

16 3545 Substation 52 17.58 17.61 12.55 -4.50 58.41 28.96 20.2 

18 Little Feller 2 N 51 18.07 16.40 14.34 -22.30 45.65 30.20 25.5 

20 Gate 20-2P 52 14.83 14.85 11.39 -11.38 50.58 29.65 9.6 

20 Schooner 52 17.55 18.38 10.66 -7.58 38.15 28.85 15.4 

23 Mercury Track 52 17.35 15.76 12.08 -3.38 44.55 29.00 19.2 

25 Gate 510 51 20.09 19.76 9.44 -3.39 43.27 29.04 23.5 

27 ABLE Site 51 17.90 19.53 11.45 -4.77 42.91 29.63 21.6 

All Environmental Samplers 926 20.20 19.33 13.19 -22.30 123.76 29.19 26.4 

27 JASPER Stack 42 23.01 7.26 398.93 -1334.79 2105.30 1358.96 2.4 

Blue-shaded locations are EPA-approved critical receptor sampler stations.
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-17 

Table 3-11. Gross beta radioactivity in air samples collected in 2007 

 Gross Beta (x 10-15 μCi/mL) 

NTS 

Area Location 

 Number of 

 Samples Mean Median SD (a) Min (b) Max (c)

Mean 

MDC 

% >

MDC

1 BJY 50 21.64 21.75 5.20 7.48 31.80 4.24 98.0 

3 U-3ah/at N 52 21.69 21.80 5.13 10.00 31.22 4.13 100.0 

3 U-3ah/at S 52 21.85 23.10 5.47 7.18 33.31 4.13 100.0 

3 U-3bh N 51 21.12 22.06 5.32 9.18 33.41 4.17 100.0 

3 U-3bh S 52 21.64 22.00 5.37 10.54 32.51 4.13 100.0 

5 DoD 52 22.57 23.18 5.66 11.40 35.10 4.13 100.0 

5 Sugar Bunker N 52 23.16 23.51 6.68 5.21 36.52 4.22 98.1 

6 Yucca 52 22.59 23.73 5.32 10.87 32.52 4.15 100.0 

9 Bunker 9-300 51 21.32 21.77 4.91 9.05 29.35 4.14 100.0 

10 Gate 700 S 49 20.94 21.58 5.29 9.99 32.84 4.16 100.0 

10 Sedan N 52 21.37 21.57 4.86 9.72 31.14 4.14 100.0 

16 3545 Substation 52 20.07 20.66 5.73 4.21 33.26 4.14 99.0 

18 Little Feller 2 N 51 19.90 20.41 5.21 9.71 32.93 4.33 98.0 

20 Gate 20-2P 52 20.66 21.71 5.39 7.30 35.27 4.24 100.0 

20 Schooner 52 20.49 21.62 5.34 8.77 32.70 4.12 100.0 

23 Mercury Track 52 21.84 21.92 5.52 10.25 34.08 4.14 100.0 

25 Gate 510 51 22.03 22.59 5.42 11.21 33.37 4.14 100.0 

27 ABLE Site 51 21.01 21.65 5.29 9.85 31.48 4.25 100.0 

All Environmental Samplers 926 21.44 21.88 5.43 4.21 36.52 4.17 99.6 

27 JASPER Stack 45 -50.51 0.87 302.05 -2014.24 53.63 151.80 4.4 

Blue-shaded locations are EPA-approved critical receptor sampler stations. 

The orange-shaded location is a point-source sampler station.

Non-shaded locations are environmental sampler stations. 

Green shading indicates that some percentage of samples had concentrations above the sample-specific MDC. 

(a) Standard deviation (b) Minimum (c) Maximum

Gross Alpha

-20

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

01-Jan-07

02-Apr-07

02-Jul-07

01-Oct-07

01-Jan-08

Collection Date

x 10-16 μCi/mL

Bunker 9-300

Sedan N

Other

Figure 3-11. Gross alpha radioactivity in air samples collected in 2007 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-18 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Gross Beta

0

10

20

30

40

01-Jan-07

02-Apr-07

02-Jul-07

01-Oct-07

01-Jan-08

Collection Date

x 10-15 μCi/mL

Figure 3-12. Gross beta radioactivity in air samples collected in 2007 

3.1.5 Air Sampling Results from Critical Receptor Samplers 

The following radionuclides were detected at three or more of the critical receptor samplers: 241Am, 238Pu, 239+240Pu, 

233+234U, 235+236U, 238U, and 3H (see Tables 3-2, 3-4, 3-5, 3-6, and 3-9, respectively). All measured concentrations of 

these radionuclides were well below their CLs during 2007. The uranium isotopes are attributed to naturally occurring 

uranium (see Section 3.1.4.4). The concentration of each measured radionuclide (excluding uranium, since it has been 

determined to be of natural origin) at each of the six critical receptor stations was divided by its respective CL 

(see Table 3-1) to obtain a “percent of CL.” These were then summed for each station. The sum of these fractions at 

each critical receptor sampler is less than 1.0, demonstrating that the NESHAP dose limit (10 mrem/yr) at these 

critical receptor locations was not exceeded. The highest radiation dose (CEDE) at a critical receptor location would 

be approximately 1.9 mrem/yr for a hypothetical individual residing at Schooner. 

Table 3-12. Sum of fractions of compliance levels for man-made radionuclides at critical receptor samplers 

Radionuclides Included in 

Sum of Percents(a)

NTS 

Area Location 

Sum of Fractions of Compliance 

Levels (CLs)(b)

6 Yucca 0.0087 

10 Gate 700 S 0.037 

16 3545 Substation 0.0089 

20 Schooner 0.19(c)

23 Mercury 0.0081 

241Am, 238Pu, 239+240Pu, 3H 

25 Gate 510 0.0021 

(a) 233+234U, 235+236U, and 238U are not included in sum of fractions. All uranium detected in air particulate 

samples was determined to be naturally occurring, based on the isotopic ratios. 

(b) Values reported here for each critical receptor sampler station differ slightly from those reported in Warren 

and Grossman (2008) due to the methods of averaging. 

(c) This equates to a hypothetical receptor at this location receiving a CEDE of 1.9 mrem/yr. 

3.1.6 Air Sampling Results from Point-Source (Stack) Sampler 

Analyses of the 2007 air samples from the stack sampler at the JASPER facility contained no measurements of manmade radionuclides above MDC (see Tables 3-2 through 3-5). The HEPA filters at the facility appeared to function 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-19 

as intended; therefore, no radionuclide emission rate or offsite dose was calculated for this potential NTS radiation 

source (see Section 8.0). 

3.1.7 Emission Evaluations for Planned Projects 

In 2007, several planned projects were evaluated to determine if they have the potential to release airborne 

radionuclides which would expose the public to a dose greater than 0.1 mrem/yr (0.001 mSv/yr). For any project or 

facility with this potential, the EPA requires point-source operational monitoring like that conducted at the JASPER 

Facility. Evaluations were performed using the EPA-approved atmospheric diffusion model called the Clean Air 

Package 1988, Version 3.0 (CAP88-PC). CAP88-PC computes the CEDE for an offsite maximally exposed individual 

(MEI) from air emissions, in mrem/yr. The CEDE to the MEI for each evaluated project were well below the limit 

of 0.1 mrem/yr. The detailed air emission dose evaluations for each project are reported separately in Warren and 

Grossman (2008). The projects evaluated in 2007 included: 

• A series of experiments planned at the Dense Plasma Focus Facility in Area 11 

• Remediation activities for disposal of samples stored in Building 26-21-6 in Area 26 

• Remediation activities for Corrective Action Unit (CAU) 300 in Areas 23, 25, and 26 

• Remediation activities for CAU 543 in Areas 6 and 15 

• Repackaging oversized waste boxes at the Visual Examination and Repackaging Building, Area 5 

• Air emissions from a soil particle size research project in Area 6 

3.1.8 Unplanned Releases 

No unplanned radionuclide releases occurred on the NTS during 2007. 

3.1.9 Total NTS Radiological Atmospheric Releases 

Each year existing operations, new construction projects, and modifications to existing facilities which have the 

potential for airborne emissions of radioactive materials are reviewed. The following quantities are measured or 

calculated to obtain the total annual quantity of radiological atmospheric releases from the NTS: 

• The quantity of 3H gas released during laboratory or facility operations 

• The quantity of 3H released through evaporation from ponds or open tanks, estimated from the measured 3H 

concentrations in water discharged into them and assuming that all water is completely evaporated during the year 

• The quantity of 3H released from the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs and from Schooner and Sedan crater sites, 

estimated using (1) the EPA-approved atmospheric diffusion model called CAP88-PC and (2) the annual mean 

concentration of 3H in air measured by environmental air samplers at locations near these sources 

• The quantity of other radionuclides released during environmental restoration, waste management, or research 

operations/activities estimated using predicted volumes of material to be moved or released, radionuclide 

concentrations in those materials, and emission factors supplied by the EPA (Eastern Research Group, 2004) 

• The quantity of other radionuclides emitted during borehole management activities, based on measured air 

concentrations and CAP88-PC modeling of a unit release using the same meteorological conditions as during the 

emission 

• The quantity of other radionuclides resuspended in air from areas of known soil contamination, calculated from 

an inventory of radionuclides in surface soil determined by the Radionuclide Inventory and Distribution Program 

(McArthur, 1991), a resuspension model (U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission [NRC], 1983), and equation 

parameters derived at the NTS (DOE, 1992) 

Emission sources on the NTS identified in 2007 are presented in Table 3-13. Detailed descriptions of the methods 

used for estimating these quantities are reported in Warren and Grossman (2008). The Area 3 and 5 post-shot well 

sumps included in Table 3-13 included RNM #1 in Area 5, RNM #2S in Area 5, and U-3cn PS #2 in Area 3. In the 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

3-20 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

last three rows of the table before the All Sources Totals are listed, the amounts of 241Am, 238Pu, and 239+240Pu 

emissions from soil re-suspension are presented. They are the sum of emission rates computed for each area of the 

NTS with surface contamination (Areas 1-11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 30). Other radionuclides (60Cs, 90Sr, 

137Cs, 152Eu, 154Eu, 155Eu, and 238Pu), although found in surface soils during past radiation surveys, were not included 

since combined, they contributed less than ten percent to the total MEI dose. 

Table 3-13. Radiological atmospheric releases from NTS for 2007 

Source 

 

Radionuclide 

Quantity 

(Ci/yr) 

Area 23 Building 650 – release of gas during equipment calibration 3H 0.000011(a)

Area 11 Dense Plasma Focus Facility – release of gas during operations 3H 120(a)

Area 12 E Tunnel Ponds – evaporation of water discharged from E Tunnel 3H 9.3(b)

Area 3 and 5 – evaporation of water discharged from Post-Shot Wells 3H 0.17(b)

Area 5 Sewage Lagoon – evaporation of tritiated water removed from the basement of 

Building A-1 at North Las Vegas Facility and transported to NTS for disposal in lagoon 3H 0.00047(b)

Area 3 RWMS – evaporation (from soil) and transpiration (from plants) of water 3H 96(c)

Area 5 RWMS – evaporation (from soil) and transpiration (from plants) of water 3H 3.9(c)

Area 20 Schooner – evaporation (from soil) and transpiration (from plants) of water 3H 69(c)

Area 10 Sedan – evaporation (from soil) and transpiration (from plants) of water 3H 250(c)

Area 9 Borehole U9z PS#2 -– emission during wellhead access 239Pu 0.03(d)

Miscellaneous remediation, waste management, and research projects across NTS areas: 241Am 0.00034(e)

238Pu 0.0039(e)

239+240Pu 0.00066(e)

Re-suspension of surface soil contaminated from past nuclear testing across NTS areas: 241Am 0.047(f)

238Pu 0.050(f)

239+240Pu 0.29(f)

All Sources Totals: 3H 550 

241Am 0.047 

238Pu 0.054 

239+240Pu 0.32 

Source: Warren and Grossman (2008) 

(a) Estimated from 3H cyclinder pressure gauge readings. 

(b) Estimated from measured 3H concentration in samples of water discharged, assuming all water completely evaporated. 

(c) Estimated from calculations with CAP88-PC and annual mean concentration of 3H in air measured by air sampling at a location 

near the emission source. 

(d) Estimated from calculations with CAP88-PC and onsite air sample analysis results. 

(e) Estimated from re-suspension models and emission factors from EPA report, Methods for Estimating Fugitive Air Emissions of 

Radionuclides from Diffuse Sources at DOE Facilities (Eastern Research Group, 2004) 

(f) Calculated release from the inventory of radionuclides in surface soil determined by Radionuclide Inventory and Distribution 

Program (McArthur, 1991), a re-suspension model (NRC, 1983), and equation parameters derived at the NTS (DOE, 1992). 

3.1.10 Environmental Impact 

The concentrations of man-made radionuclides in air on the NTS were all less than the regulatory concentration limits 

specified by federal regulations. Long-term trends of 239+240Pu and tritium in air continue to show a decline with time. 

All radionuclides detected by environmental air samplers in 2007 appear to be from legacy deposits of radioactivity on 

and in the soil from past nuclear tests. Radionuclide concentrations in plants and animals on the NTS and their 

potential impact are discussed in Chapter 7. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-21

3.2 Nonradiological Air Quality Assessment 

Nonradiological air monitoring and air quality assessments1 are conducted to document compliance with the current 

State of Nevada air quality permit that regulates specific operations or facilities on the NTS. The State of Nevada has 

adopted the CAA standards, which include NESHAP, National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), and New 

Source Performance Standards (NSPS) (see Section 2.1). Therefore, requirements set forth in the NTS air permit 

issued by the state are also in compliance with these national standards. Specifically omitted from this section is 

NESHAP compliance for radionuclide emissions, which is presented in Section 3.1. In 2007, assessments, 

facility/equipment monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting activities related to air quality on the NTS were 

conducted by ES personnel to meet the program goals shown in the table below. ES personnel collected and tracked 

the compliance measures shown in the table below. 

NNSA/NSO maintains a Class II Air Quality Operating Permit (AP9711-0549.01) for NTS activities. Class II 

permits are issued for sources of air pollutants considered “minor” and where annual emissions must not exceed 

100 tons of any one criteria pollutant (see Glossary, Appendix B), or 10 tons of any one hazardous air pollutant 

(HAP), or 25 tons of any combination of HAPs. The NTS facilities regulated by this permit include: 

• Over 15 facilities/185 pieces of equipment in Areas 1, 3, 5, 6, 12, 23, and 27 

• NPTEC in Area 5 

• Site-Wide Chemical Release Areas 

• Big Explosives Experimental Facility (BEEF) in Area 4 

• Explosives Ordnance Disposal Unit in Area 11 

In March 2007, the permit was modified to delete some construction equipment, diesel generators, and compressors; 

to reduce hours of operation for some of the generators and compressors; and to add a small industrial shredder. 

 

1The word “assessment” versus “monitoring” is used in this section. Adherence to most nonradiological air quality standards on 

the NTS does not require field collection and analysis of air samples (activities called “monitoring” in this report). Instead, 

adherence to NTS air quality permits for nonradiological emissions usually involves reviewing records, gathering operational 

information, evaluating visible emissions, and calculating emissions. 

Air Quality Assessment Program Goals Compliance Measures 

Ensure that NTS operations comply with all the 

requirements of current air quality permits issued by the 

State of Nevada for NTS operations. 

Ensure that air emissions of criteria pollutants (sulfur 

dioxide [SO2]), nitrogen oxides [NOX], carbon 

monoxide [CO], volatile organic compounds [VOCs], 

and particulate matter) do not exceed limits established 

under NAAQS. 

Ensure that NTS operations comply with the asbestos 

abatement reporting requirements under NESHAP. 

Document usage of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) 

to comply with Title VI of the CAA. 

Tons of emissions of criteria pollutants produced 

annually 

 

Gallons of fuel burned annually 

Hours of operation of equipment per year 

Rate at which aggregate and concrete is produced 

Quarterly opacity readings 

Pounds of chemicals released from NPTEC facilities 

Amount of asbestos in existing structures removed or 

scheduled for removal 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring 

3-22 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Facilities regulated by the NTS Class II Air Quality Operating Permit must adhere to the recordkeeping and 

operational requirements specified in the permit. Compliance is verified by conducting periodic site walk-downs, 

observations of equipment while in operation, and a review of the records associated with each permitted facility. A 

description of the various activities performed or measures tracked in order to meet permit requirements and the 

results of 2007 air quality activities are described below. 

3.2.1 Emissions of Criteria Air Pollutants and Hazardous Air Pollutants 

A source’s regulatory status is determined by the maximum number of tons of criteria pollutants and nonradiological 

HAPs it may emit in a 12-month period if it were operated for the maximum number of hours and at the maximum 

production amounts specified in the source’s air permit. This maximum emission quantity, known as the potential to 

emit (PTE), is specified in an Air Emissions Inventory of all permitted NTS facilities and equipment. Each year, the 

state issues to NNSA/NSO Actual Production/Emissions Reporting Forms for the NTS air permit. They are used to report 

the actual hours of operation, gallons of fuel burned, etc., for each permitted facility/piece of equipment. Using these 

data, emissions of the criteria pollutants and HAPs are calculated and reported. The forms are completed by ES 

personnel and returned to NNSA/NSO for submittal to the state. The state uses the submitted information to 

determine annual maintenance and emissions fees and to document that calculated emission quantities do not exceed 

the PTEs. Because lead is considered a HAP as well as a criteria pollutant, NTS lead emissions for permitted 

operations are reported to the state as part of the total HAPs emissions. Lead emissions from non-permitted 

activities, such as soldering and weapons use, are covered under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-toKnow Act and are reported to the EPA (see Section 10.3). 

In 2007, examination of records for permitted facilities and equipment indicated that all operational parameters were 

being properly tracked. A total of 3.41 tons (3.09 metric tons [mtons]) of criteria pollutants were emitted from NTS 

permitted facilities and equipment in 2007 (Table 3-14). No PTEs were exceeded. The majority of the emissions 

were NOx from diesel generators and VOCs from the bulk storage of gasoline. Only 32 pounds (0.2 tons) of HAPs 

were released in 2007 (Table 3-15). The Calendar Year 2007 Actual Production/Emissions Reporting Form was submitted to 

the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) on February 20, 2008. Table 3-15 and Figure 3-13 show 

the calculated tons of air pollutants released on the NTS since 1997. 

Field measurements (versus calculated emissions) of particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter 

(PM10) are required for two permitted facilities: BEEF and NPTEC. A minimum of one portable PM10 sampler is 

required to be located at each facility. The sampling systems must operate and record ambient PM10 concentrations 

at least each day a detonation or chemical release occurs. The PM10 emissions are reported to the state in reports 

specific to each series of detonations or chemical releases (see Section 3.2.5). 

Unless specifically exempted, the open burning of any combustible refuse, waste, garbage, or oil; or for salvage 

operations, is prohibited. Open burning for other purposes, including personnel training, is allowed if approved in 

advance by the state (Nevada Administrative Code 445B.22067). Approval is denoted by the issuance of an Open 

Burn Variance prior to each burn. Exceptions to this include the Open Burn Variances issued to NNSA/NSO for 

fire extinguisher training at the NTS and for support-vehicle live-fire training evolutions. These Open Burn Variances 

are renewed annually and require 24-hour advance notification to the state prior to each burn. There were 23 fire 

extinguisher training sessions and 24 vehicle burns conducted throughout 2007. Quantities of criteria pollutants 

produced by open burns are not required to be calculated. 
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-23

Table 3-14. Tons of criteria air pollutant emissions released on the NTS from permitted facilities operational in 200

Calculated Tons(a) of Emissions 

Particulate 

Matter 

(PM10)(b)

Carbon Monoxide 

(CO) 

Nitrogen 

Oxides (NOx) 

Sulfur Dioxide 

(SO2) 

C

Facility Actual PTE(c) Actual PTE Actual PTE Actual PTE AWet Aggregate Plant 0.30 8.54 NA(d) NA NA NA NA NA Concrete Batch Plant 0.03 4.21 NA NA NA NA NA NA Cementing Equipment (Units Controlled by Baghouse 10 Only) 

0.002 0.41 NA NA NA NA NA NA 

Industrial Shredder 0.16 1.33 NA NA NA NA NA NA BEEF 0.0002 8.0 0.21 0.535 0 0.07 0 0.003 Diesel Fired Generators 0.04 0.92 0.27 5.77 1.2 25.44 0.01 0.49 Bulk Gasoline Storage Tank NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA Bulk Diesel Fuel Storage Tank NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NPTEC 0.003 3.00 0.03 3.26 0.01 3.02 0.001 3.00 

Total by Pollutant 0.54 26.41 0.51 9.57 1.21 28.53 0.01 3.49 

Total Emissions 3.41 Actual, 82.91 PTE 

(a) For metric tons (mtons), multiply tons by 0.9072 (b) Particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter (c) Potential to emit: the quantity of criteria pollutant that each facility/piece of equipment would emit annually if it were operated 

 maximum number of hours at the maximum production rate specified in the air permit (d) Not applicable because the permit does not regulate the emissions of this pollutant for this facility 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring 

3-24 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 3-15. Criteria air pollutants and HAPS released on the NTS since 1997 

 Total Emissions (tons/yr)(a)

Pollutant 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 

Particulate Matter (PM10)(b) 1.67 1.11 1.7 1.46 2.05 3.61 2.39 0.94 0.84 0.69 0.54 

Carbon Monoxide (CO) 5.28 1.85 1.87 2.76 4.84 4.6 1.79 0.24 0.15 0.43 0.51 

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) 19.79 7.57 8.07 12.75 22.23 21.09 8.11 1.01 0.69 2.02 1.21 

Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) 0.85 0.37 0.42 0.98 1.68 1.62 0.76 0.12 0.04 0.03 0.01 

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) 0.94 11.76 1.99 1.89 2.01 2.1 1.21 4.60 1.94 1.40 1.14 

Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) NR NR NR 0.01 0.03 0.01 0 0.41 0.05 1.87(d) 0.02 

(a) For mtons, multiply tons by 0.9072 

(b) Particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter 

(c) Not reported 

(d) 92 percent of HAPs were emitted during chemical spill tests at NPTEC, <0.006 percent were from lead from all permitted operations 

Total Emissions of Criteria Air Pollutants and HAPs

0

5

10

15

20

25

1995 1997 1999 2001 2003 2005 2007

Year

Tons

PM10

CO

NOx

SO2

VOCs

HAPs

Figure 3-13. Criteria air pollutants and HAPs released on the NTS since 1997 

3.2.2 Performance Emission Testing and State Inspection 

The NTS air permit requires performance emission testing of equipment that vents emissions through stacks (called 

“point sources”). The tests must be conducted once during the five-year life of the NTS air permit for each specified 

source. Once a source accumulates 100 hours of operation (since issuance of the permit in June 2002) it must be 

tested within 90 days. Testing is conducted by inserting a probe into the stack while the equipment is operating. 

Visible emissions readings must also be conducted by a certified evaluator during the tests (see Section 3.2.4). No 

performance emission tests were conducted in 2007 because no sources other than ones that have already been tested 

reached the 100-hour limit. 

On October 10, the State of Nevada conducted a general inspection of NTS permitted facilities. None of the 

construction facilities were operating at the time of the inspection. There were no findings or violations as a result of 

the inspection. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-25 

3.2.3 Production Rates/Hours of Operation 

Compliance with operational parameters such as production rates and hours of operation is verified through an 

examination of the data generated for the annual report to the state. The number of hours that equipment operates 

throughout a year is determined either by meter readings or by recording the operating hours in a logbook each time 

the equipment is operated. Permit requirements specific to each piece of equipment dictate the frequency in which 

readings are obtained. Production rates for construction facilities such as the aggregate-producing plant are calculated 

using the hours of operation and amount of material produced. Logbooks are maintained to record this information. 

Gallons of fuel used are calculated preferably by recording tank levels each time that the tank is filled. If this is not 

possible, then calculations are performed by using industry standards and the hours of operation. In 2007, production 

rates, hours of operation, and gallons of fuel used all were within the specified permit limits and were used to calculate 

the tons of air pollutants emitted (see Table 3-14). 

3.2.4 Opacity Readings 

Under Title 40 CFR Part 60, personnel that conduct visible emissions evaluations must be certified semiannually by a 

qualified organization. A form similar to one appearing in Title 40 CFR Part 60 for conducting visible emissions 

evaluations is used to record and document the readings. Visual readings are taken every 15 seconds. A minimum of 

24 consecutive readings is required for a valid reading. The average of the 24 readings must not exceed the permitspecified limit (20 percent for NAAQS, 10 percent for NSPS). The NTS air permit requires that readings be obtained 

once each quarter that the equipment is used and be kept on file. This applies to construction equipment only. 

Readings are taken for all other permitted facilities and equipment periodically but are not always recorded. 

During 2007, four NSTec personnel were certified by Carl Koontz Associates to conduct visible emissions evaluations. Readings were taken for the following NTS facilities regulated under the NAAQS opacity limit of 20 percent: 

Area 1 Concrete Batch Plant, Area 1 Wet Aggregate Plant, Area 6 Storage Silos, the Portable Screen Plant, and the 

Device Assembly Facility (DAF) diesel generators. Readings for these facilities ranged from 0 to 15 percent. 

Readings were also taken for the Area 26 Shredder, which has an opacity limit of 20 percent as materials are loaded 

onto its conveyor and transferred to its feed hopper, and an opacity limit of 0 percent as materials go in and through 

its shredder. Readings for both phases of operation were 0 percent. NTS equipment that is regulated by the 10 

percent opacity limit under the NSPS includes miscellaneous conveyor belts, screens and hoppers, and the Area 1 

pugmill. None of this equipment was used during 2007. 

3.2.5 NPTEC and BEEF Reporting 

In addition to annual reporting, the NTS air quality operating permit for the NPTEC and the site-wide chemical 

releases requires the submittal of test plans and final analysis reports to the state for each chemical release or release 

series. Test plans provide detailed information regarding the types and quantities of chemicals to be released, a 

description of how they will be released, and environmental and chemical hazards. For the BEEF, quarterly test plans 

and final reports must be submitted for the types and weights of explosives used and estimated emissions that may be 

released. 

In 2007, the Tarantula II chemical test was conducted at the Area 5 NPTEC and consisted of 18 releases. Three 

releases were also conducted at the Test Cell C Facility as part of the Tarantula II test series. A completion report was 

submitted to NNSA/NSO for transmittal to NDEP’s Bureau of Air Pollution Control at the conclusion of each test. 

Tables 3-17 and 3-18 summarize the total quantities of all chemicals released during tests. The annual report of all 

chemicals released during 2007 was submitted to the state on February 20, 2008.
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring 

3-26 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 3-16. Chemicals released during tests conducted at the Area 5 NPTEC in 2007 

Chemical Total Released (kg) Total Released (lb)(a)

1,1,1,2-Tetrafluorethane 28.96 63.51 

1,1,1-Trichloroethane 10.47 22.96 

Acetone 6.03 13.22 

Acetyl Chloride 1.28 2.81 

Ammonia 8.22 18.03 

Carbon Tetrachloride 3.15 6.91 

Chloroacetic Acid 7.36 16.14 

Chlorobenzene 14 30.70 

Diethyl Ethylphosphonate 11.9 26.10 

Diisopropylamine 42.2 92.54 

Dimethyl Ether 7.08 15.53 

Dimethyl Methylphosphonate 22.16 48.60 

Ethanol 4 8.77 

Ethylene 63.72 139.74 

Hydrogen Chloride 11 24.12 

Hydrogen Fluoride 0.29 0.64 

Isobutylene 3 6.58 

Isopropyl Alcohol 4.42 9.69 

Methyl Acetate 6.26 13.73 

Methyl Salicylate 3.39 7.43 

Nitrous Oxide 27.5 60.31 

Perchloroethylene 1.69 3.71 

Propylene 67.15 147.26 

Sulfur Dioxide 15.55 34.10 

Sulfur Hexafluoride 6.95 15.24 

Trichloroethylene 2 4.39 

Triethyl phosphite 0.79 1.73 

(a) 1 pound (lb) = 0.456 kilograms (kg) 

Table 3-17. Chemicals released during tests conducted at the Test Cell C facility in 2007 

Chemical Total Released (kg) Total Released (lb)(a)

Ammonia 9.88 21.67 

Ethanol 5.8 12.72 

Freon 134a 11.48 25.18 

Kerosene 2.59 5.68 

Nitrogen Dioxide 15.63 34.28 

Nitrous Oxide 25.01 54.85 

Propane 5.9 12.94 

Trichloroethylene 7.85 17.21 

Sulfur Hexafluoride 10.75 23.57 

 (a) 1 lb = 0.456 kg 

The majority of BEEF activities involve sensitive or classified information. To protect confidentiality of data, 

summary reports are submitted on a quarterly basis rather than for each test or test series. Table 3-19 is a summary of 

the general types and weights of explosives detonated during tests conducted in 2007. Emissions generated from 

these releases are summarized in Table 3-14. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 3-27 

Table 3-18. Types and weights of explosives detonated at BEEF in 2007 

Type of Explosive Total Released (kg) Total Released (lb)(a)

TNT Based 0.55 1.20 

Detonator materials 65.48 143.60 

Dynamite w/ Nitrocellulose 5.93 13.00 

Nitramine/binder 157.09 344.50 

(a) 1 lb = 0.456 kg 

3.2.6 Tactical Demilitarization Development (TaDD) Project Reporting 

The TaDD project is located in Area 11 at the NTS. This facility was developed as a prototype of a portable burn 

facility to dispose of unneeded Shillelagh tactical military rocket motors. As such, TaDD was added to the NTS air 

quality operating permit because of the emissions generated during each burn. Emissions are controlled by a 

baghouse, HEPA, and ultra high-efficiency filters. Permit requirements include annual reporting of hours of 

operation and emissions and an opacity limit of 20 percent. 

The TaDD facility has not been used due to lack of funding. It is listed in the renewed air permit with zero allowable 

operating hours and is expected to be removed from the air permit in 2008. 

3.2.7 ODS Recordkeeping 

ODS recordkeeping requirements applicable to NTS operations include maintaining, for a minimum of three years, 

evidence of technician certification, recycling/recovery equipment approval, and servicing records for appliances 

containing 22.7 kg (50 lb) or more of refrigerant. Compliance with recordkeeping and certification requirements for 

the use and disposition of ODS is verified through periodic assessments. The assessments include a records review 

and interviews with managers and technicians associated with the use, disposition, and purchase of refrigerants. 

Under Section 608 of the CAA, EPA may conduct random inspections to determine compliance. 

In 2007, the NSTec company directive for air pollution and permitting, which contains a section on ODS, was 

revised. The revised ODS section provides guidance on servicing and disposal of ODS appliances, recycling ODS 

material, and maximizing the use of safe alternatives to ODS due to their required phase-out. In 2007, no internal 

assessments or EPA inspections of the NTS ODS program were conducted. 

3.2.8 Asbestos Abatement 

A NESHAP notification is submitted annually to the EPA for the next calendar year. This notification provides an 

estimate of the quantities of asbestos-containing materials that are expected to be removed from small projects: 

removal of less than 80 linear m (260 linear ft), less than 15 square meters (m2) (160 square feet [ft2]), or less than 1 

cubic meter (m3) (35 cubic feet [ft3]). These projections are submitted to EPA in an Annual Asbestos Abatement 

Notification Form. A Notification of Demolition and Renovation Form is also submitted to EPA at least 10 working 

days prior to the start of each project if either (1) no asbestos is present in a facility scheduled for demolition, or (2) if 

quantities of asbestos-containing materials to be removed are estimated to equal or exceed 80 linear m, 15 m2, or 1 m3. 

The recordkeeping requirements for asbestos abatement activities on the NTS include maintaining air and bulk 

sampling data records, abatement plans, and operations and maintenance activity records for up to 75 years and 

maintaining location-specific records of asbestos-containing materials for a minimum of 75 years. 

Compliance with recordkeeping requirements is verified through periodic internal assessments. The assessments 

include a records review and interviews with managers and technicians associated with asbestos abatement. 

NNSA/NSO informal reviews are performed periodically. 

An Annual Asbestos Abatement Notification Form was submitted to the EPA on December 14, 2006, which 

projected that 45.7 linear m (250 linear ft) and 23.2 m2 (150 ft2) of asbestos-containing material would be removed 

from small projects from NTS facilities in 2007. However, one large asbestos abatement project arose in 2007: 

Building CP-50 in Area 6 for which 186 m2 (2,000 ft2) of asbestos-containing materials were removed during 
Radiological and Nonradiological Air Monitoring 

3-28 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

renovation of the building for occupancy. A Notification of Demolition and Renovation Form was submitted to 

EPA within 10 working days prior to the start of the project. The rest of the asbestos abatement activities throughout 

the NTS complex were minor in scope, involving the removal of amounts below the reporting threshold. Asbestos 

abatement records continued to be maintained as required. 

3.2.9 Fugitive Dust Control

The NTS Class II Air Quality Operating Permit states that the best practical methods should be used to prevent 

particulate matter from becoming airborne prior to the construction, repair, demolition, or use of unpaved or 

untreated areas. Methods and materials that are typically used to control fugitive dust include presoaking, water 

spraying, using dust palliatives, gravelling or paving haul routes, revegetating, reducing vehicle speeds, and either 

covering stockpiles or watering them. At the NTS, the main method of dust control is the use of water sprays. 

During 2007, NSTec personnel conducted several fugitive dust readings of operations throughout the NTS that 

included the industrial shredder, the Area 1 aggregate plant, and the Area 1 Concrete Batch Plant. No excessive 

fugitive dust was noted. 

3.2.10 Environmental Impact 

During 2007, NTS activities produced a total of only 3.41 tons of criteria pollutants and 0.02 tons of HAPs. These 

small quantities had little, if any, impact to air quality on the NTS and at offsite locations. Emissions of pollutants for 

2007 were significantly less than those generated during the heightened activity that occurred in the years prior to the 

nuclear weapons testing moratorium. 

Impacts of the chemical release tests at the NPTEC are minimized by controlling the amount and duration of each 

release. Biological monitoring at the NPTEC is performed whenever there is a risk of significant exposure to 

downwind plants and animals from the planned tests (see Section 13.5). NSTec biologists review all chemical release 

test plans to determine the level of field monitoring needed for each test. To date, chemical releases at the NPTEC 

have used such small quantities (when dispersed into the air) that downwind test-specific monitoring has not been 

necessary. No measurable impacts to downwind plants or animals have been observed. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-1

4.0 Radiological and Nonradiological Water 

Monitoring 

This chapter presents radiological and nonradiological monitoring results for surface water and groundwater from on 

and off the Nevada Test Site (NTS). Surface water and groundwater includes natural springs, drinking water, 

non-potable groundwater, and water discharged into domestic and wastewater systems on the NTS. In 2007, several 

programs or projects were involved in water monitoring. These included (1) routine radiological monitoring 

conducted by National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec), Environmental Technical Services (ETS) under the 

Routine Radiological Environmental Monitoring Plan (RREMP) (U.S. Department of Energy [DOE], 2003a); (2) water 

quality assessments of permitted water systems conducted by NSTec Environmental Services; and (3) water sampling 

and analysis conducted by the Underground Test Area (UGTA) Subproject. Water monitoring is conducted to 

comply with applicable state and federal regulations (see Section 2.2) as well as to address the concerns of 

stakeholders who reside in the vicinity of the NTS. 

Section 4.1 presents the concentrations of radioactivity in water samples. These data are used to calculate radiological 

dose via drinking water to the general public residing near the NTS; these results are provided in Section 8.0 

(Radiological Dose Assessment). 

The Community Environmental Monitoring Program was established by the U.S. Department of Energy, National 

Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) to independently monitor offsite springs and 

water supply systems. This independent community outreach program is managed by the Desert Research Institute 

(DRI). DRI’s 2007 monitoring results for surface and groundwater are presented in Section 6.2 

Section 4.2 of this chapter presents the results of nonradiological monitoring of drinking water and domestic and 

industrial wastewaters on the NTS. 

4.1 Radiological Surface Water and Groundwater Monitoring 

There have been 828 underground nuclear tests conducted at the NTS. Approximately one-third of these tests was 

detonated near or below the water table (DOE, 1996a; DOE, 2000a). This legacy of nuclear testing has resulted in 

the contamination of groundwater in some areas. The Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order established 

Corrective Action Units (CAUs) that delineated and defined areas of concern for groundwater contamination on the 

NTS (DOE, 1996a). Figure 4-1 shows the locations of underground nuclear tests and areas of potential groundwater 

contamination. To safeguard the public’s health and safety and comply with applicable federal, state, and local 

environmental protection regulations as well as DOE directives, groundwater on and near the NTS is monitored for 

radioactivity. Monitoring in the past was conducted by the U.S. Public Health Service, U.S. Geological Survey, the 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and others. In 1998, Bechtel Nevada was tasked by NNSA/NSO to 

establish and manage an NTS integrated and comprehensive radiological environmental monitoring program. The 

RREMP (DOE, 2003a) describes groundwater monitoring objectives, regulatory drivers, and quality assurance 

protocols. 

The purpose of radiological water monitoring is to determine whether concentrations of radionuclides in groundwater 

and surface water bodies at the NTS and its vicinity pose a threat to public health or the environment. Toward this 

end, the monitoring program collects and analyzes water samples to meet the goals shown below. 

In addition to RREMP-driven monitoring, the UGTA Subproject (see Section 14.0) collects data from wells to define 

groundwater flow rates and directions in order to determine the nature and location of aquifers. Data from these 

studies are used to determine whether radionuclides from nuclear testing have moved appreciable distances from 

original test locations. Groundwater sampling and radiological analysis results for 2007 from UGTA wells are 

presented in Section 4.1.10 of this chapter. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Figure 4-1. Areas of potential groundwater contamination on the NTS 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-3

The selection of analytes for groundwater monitoring under the RREMP (DOE, 2003a) is based on the radiological 

source term from historical nuclear testing, regulatory/permit requirements, and characterization needs. The isotopic 

inventory remaining from nuclear testing is presented in the most recent environmental impact statement for NTS 

activities (DOE, 1996a) and in a recent Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) document (Bowen et al., 2001). 

Many of the radioactive species generated from subsurface testing have very short half-lives, sorb strongly onto the 

solid phase, or are bound into what is termed “melt glass” and are not available for groundwater transport in the near 

term (Smith, 1993; Smith et al., 1995). Tritium (3H) is the radioactive species created in the greatest quantities and is 

widely believed to be the most mobile. Tritium is therefore the primary target analyte and every water sample is 

analyzed for this radionuclide. It represents the greatest concern to users of groundwater on and around the NTS for 

at least the next 100 years due to its high mobility and concentration (DOE, 1996a; International Technology 

Corporation, 1997). 

Gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity analyses are also conducted on all water samples, but on a less frequent 

schedule than tritium. Gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity can include activity from both natural and man-made 

radionuclides, if any are present. Naturally occurring deposits of certain minerals in water can contribute to both 

alpha radiation (e.g., isotopes of uranium and radium-226 [226Ra]) and beta radiation (e.g., radium-228 [228Ra] and 

potassium-40 [40K]). Gamma spectroscopy analysis for gamma-emitting radionuclides is also performed on all water 

samples and can identify the presence of specific man-made radionuclides (e.g., americium-241 [241Am], cesium-137 

[137Cs], cobalt-60 [60Co], and europium-152 and -154 [152Eu and 154Eu]) as well as natural radionuclides (e.g., actinium228 [228Ac], lead-212 [212Pb], 40K, uranium-235 [235U], and thorium-234 [234Th]). Specific analyses for 238Pu, 239+240Pu, 

14C, 90Sr, 99Tc, 241Am, and uranium isotopes are performed on selected water samples to help characterize sampled 

locations. Radium analyses were discontinued in 2005 because previous analyses indicate 226Ra is not a major source 

of measured gross alpha activity and 228Ra is not a major source of measured gross beta activity. Water analyses also 

include chemical parameters to characterize the groundwater chemistry and hydrology, but these measures are not 

presented in this report. 

Radiological Surface Water and Groundwater Monitoring 

Program Goals Analytes Monitored 

Determine if radionuclide concentrations of offsite and onsite water 

supply wells exceed the safe drinking water standards established by the 

EPA under the Safe Drinking Water Act or the dose limits to the general 

public set by DOE Order 5400.5. 

Determine if radionuclide concentrations in surface waters on the NTS 

expose terrestrial and aquatic animals to doses which exceed those set by 

DOE (DOE-STD-1153-2002) to protect wildlife populations. 

Determine if permitted facilities on the NTS are in compliance with 

permit discharge limits for radionuclides. 

Determine if radionuclide concentrations in onsite and offsite natural 

springs and non-potable water wells (monitoring wells), including those 

within CAUs, indicate that NNSA/NSO activities have had an impact on 

the environment. Strict drinking water standards are often used as a 

monitoring action level for this determination. 

Tritium (3H) 

Gross alpha radioactivity 

Gross beta radioactivity 

Gamma-emitting radionuclides 

Plutonium-238 (238Pu) 

Plutonium-239+240 (239+240Pu) 

Carbon-14 (14C) 

Strontium-90 (90Sr) 

Technetium-99 (99Tc) 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

4.1.1 Water Monitoring Locations 

The NTS groundwater and surface water monitoring network is located in a complex hydrogeologic setting (see 

Nevada Test Site Description included on the compact disc version of this report). The RREMP (DOE, 2003a) identifies 

a groundwater monitoring network of 78 wells to be sampled at frequencies ranging from once every three months to 

once every three years. Two of the wells, ASH-B Piezometer #1 and ASH-B Piezometer #2, are actually separate 

pieziometers within the same borehole. There are also ten additional wells (seven offsite and three onsite) not 

identified in the RREMP which have been added to the network and which are sampled opportunistically or at the 

suggestion of NNSA/NSO. Of these 88 wells, 72 have been sampled at least once since 1999. These 72 include 33 

offsite wells, 10 onsite water supply wells, and 29 onsite monitoring wells (Figure 4-2). Those wells not sampled since 

1999, but identified in the RREMP, include 15 onsite monitoring wells and 1 offsite well. They are not sampled 

because they are either not accessible, are used for other purposes, are blocked, provide water samples that are of 

poor quality or are contaminated (disqualifying them from monitoring), or contain waters with known high levels of 

radiological contamination that are not expected to change. The next revision of the RREMP will document these 

changes. In 2007, 39 groundwater locations were sampled (Figure 4-2): 

• 14 offsite wells 

• 9 onsite water supply wells (5 potable, 4 non-potable) 

• 16 onsite monitoring wells (3 are compliance wells for the Area 5 Radioactive Waste Management Site) 

The RREMP identifies seven offsite springs that are sampled at intervals from once a year to once every three years 

(Figure 4-3). In 2007, an offsite spring not identified in the RREMP was sampled, along with three other springs. 

Three onsite springs, not identified in the RREMP, were sampled in 2005 but no onsite springs were sampled in 2007. 

The RREMP also identifies one containment pond system and three sewage lagoons that may be sampled quarterly or 

annually. Only two of the three sewage lagoons are currently active and were sampled in 2007. There are six 

additional onsite sewage lagoons not identified in the RREMP which have been sampled opportunistically, but which 

are no longer operational. The surface water monitoring locations sampled in 2007 (Figure 4-3) included: 

• 4 offsite springs 

• 1 NTS operations-related containment pond system (E Tunnel ponds) 

• 2 onsite sewage lagoons 

In all, including modifications described above, there are currently some 74 locations being sampled, with (on average) 

103 samples being obtained annually for tritium analyses. 

The UGTA Subproject sampled three wells in 2007. These samples were analyzed for radionuclides and are briefly 

discussed in Section 4.1.10 below. 

4.1.2 Water Sampling/Analysis Methods 

Water sampling methods are based, in part, on the characteristics and configurations of the sample locations. For 

example, wells with dedicated pumps may be sampled from the associated plumbing (e.g., spigots) at the wellhead, 

while wells without pumps may be sampled via a wireline bailer or a portable pumping system. Grab samples are 

typically obtained from the springs. Six of the monitoring program wells are constructed with multiple strings of 

casing/tubing or multiple completion zones consisting of discrete intervals of slotted casing which access different 

horizons of the penetrated hydrostratigraphic units. The sample depths for these six wells are: 

• 590, 622, 649, and 701 meters (m) (1,935, 2,040, 2,130, and 2,300 feet [ft]) below ground surface (bgs) in HTH #1 

• 518 and 649 m (1,700 and 2,130 ft) bgs in UE-18R 

• 475 and 608 m (1,560 and 1,994 ft) bgs in PM-3 

• 826 and 1000 m (2,710 and 3,280 ft) bgs in ER-19-1 

• 114 and 312 m (375 and 1025 ft) bgs in Ash-B (Ash-B Piezometer #2 and Ash-B Piezometer #1) 

• 615 and 679 m (2017 and 2228 ft) bgs in ER-6-1 

All, with the exception of Ash-B and ER-6-1, were sampled in 2007. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-5

Figure 4-2. RREMP well monitoring locations sampled on and off the NTS in 2007 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 Figure 4-3. RREMP spring and surface water monitoring locations sampled on and off the NTS in 2007
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-7

Sampling frequencies and requisite analyses for routine radiological water monitoring are based on location and type 

of sampling point as defined in the RREMP (DOE, 2003a). During each monitoring year, not every water sample is 

analyzed for every analyte, per the design criteria of the RREMP. In 2007, tritium analyses were performed on all 

samples. Other analyses were performed on specific samples based on the RREMP schedule. 

Most tritium analyses were conducted after the samples were enriched. The enrichment process concentrates tritium 

in a sample to provide very low minimum detectable concentrations (MDCs) (see Glossary, Appendix B) for the 

laboratory analyses. Sample-specific MDCs for laboratory analysis, reported in each results table, ranged from 17 to 

28 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) with an average of 22.3 pCi/L. The MDCs for standard (non-enriched) tritium 

analyses typically range from 200 to 400 pCi/L. For comparison, the EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL) for 

tritium in drinking water is 20,000 pCi/L. 

Routine quality control samples (e.g., duplicates, blanks, and spikes) are also incorporated into the analytical streams 

frequently. Section 18.0 includes a thorough discussion of quality assurance/quality control protocols and procedures 

utilized for radiological water monitoring. 

4.1.3 Presentation of Water Sampling Data 

The following sections present only concentrations that were above their MDCs for man-made gamma-emitting 

radionuclides (i.e., 40K), plutonium, 14C, 90Sr, and 99Tc. Concentration values of gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium 

are presented for all water samples in the data tables, whether above or below their MDCs. 

The uncertainty values presented in the data tables of this chapter represent the uncertainty (“error”) of the analytical 

method. This does not include the uncertainty associated with sample collection or the tritium enrichment process. 

A statistical analysis of water supply well samples analyzed between July 1999 and December 2007 was conducted to 

obtain an estimate of the tritium decision level (LC). The analysis suggests an LC (see Glossary, Appendix B) for 

tritium of approximately 20.2 pCi/L, where LC is a 99 percent prediction limit for any individual measurement based 

on the background water supply well data. Alternately, a 95 percent prediction limit for all enriched tritium 

measurements (PLall), based on the background water supply well data, is 28.6 pCi/L. This takes into account the 

total number of tritium measurements made annually under the current implementation of the RREMP (103 on 

average). If all monitoring locations produced data from the same distribution as the water supply wells, there would 

be a 5 percent chance of obtaining one or more values exceeding this PLall anywhere during any one year. 

All values shown in the tables in the following results sections are formatted to two significant figures based on the 

accuracy of the measurements (e.g., 2500, 25, 2.5, or 0.025). 

4.1.4 Results from Offsite Wells 

The 14 offsite well locations sampled in 2007 included 4 private domestic or community wells, and 10 NNSA/NSO 

wells related to NTS activities (see Figure 4-2). The 2007 data indicate that groundwater at the offsite locations has 

not been impacted by NTS nuclear testing operations. 

Gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity were detected in most offsite well samples collected in 2007 (Table 4-1). The 

gross alpha result in the ER-OV-02 sample was slightly greater than the EPA MCL in drinking water of 15 pCi/L. 

None of the 2007 gross beta results met or exceeded the EPA Level of Concern of 50 pCi/L. 

Samples from wells ER-OV-01, ER-OV-02, ER-OV-03C, ER-OV-03C2, ER-OV-06A, and PM-3 were also analyzed 

for gamma-emitting radionuclides, 238Pu, and 239+240Pu. No man-made or natural radionuclides were detected. 

Trends over time in gross alpha and beta radioactivity and tritium levels among the 27 offsite wells being sampled on 

a routine schedule are shown in Figures 4-4 through 4-9. In these figures, offsite wells are grouped into five areas. 

The legend labels for these five areas include Northwest (wells northwest of those in Oasis Valley), Oasis Valley (wells 

in Oasis Valley and which have the prefix “ER-OV”), Beatty to Amargosa Valley (wells in the towns of Beatty and 

Amargosa Valley and wells located between these two towns), Southwest (wells southwest of the town of Amargosa 

Valley and west of Highway 373), and South (wells south of the NTS and east of Highway 373). 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 4-1. Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for offsite wells in 2007 

Monitoring 

Location 

Date 

Sampled 

Gross α ± 

Uncertainty (MDC)(a)

(pCi/L)(b) 

Gross β ± 

Uncertainty (MDC) 

(pCi/L)(c) 

3H ± 

Uncertainty 

(MDC) (pCi/L)( d)

Non-Potable NNSA/NSO Wells 

ER-OV-01 11/6/2007 7.6 ± 1.6 (0.85) 7.5 ± 1.8 (2.1) -3.8 ± 14 (23) 

ER-OV-02 11/5/2007 16 ± 3.0 (1.1) 8.2 ± 1.9 (2.1) 2.1 ± 14 (23) 

ER-OV-03A 11/5/2007 7.9 ± 1.6 (0.9) 6.7 ± 1.6 (1.8) -6.1 ± 14 (24) 

ER-OV-03A FD(e) 11/5/2007 8.6 ± 1.9 (1.3) 6.8 ± 1.7 (2.0) NA(f)

ER-OV-03A3 11/5/2007 10 ± 2.0 (1.0) 8.3 ± 1.7 (1.7) -11 ± 14 (24) 

ER-OV-03C 11/6/2007 6.4 ± 1.5 (0.9) 1.2 ± 0.94 (1.8) -5.9 ± 14 (24) 

ER-OV-03C2 11/6/2007 5.5 ± 1.4 (1.1) 1.6 ± 1.1 (2.0) -13 ± 14 (23) 

ER-OV-04A 11/7/2007 4.0 ± 1.2 (1.2) 7.0 ± 1.6 (2.0) 0.18 ± 14 (24) 

ER-OV-04A FD 11/7/2007 NA NA -8.7 ± 14 (24) 

ER-OV-05 11/7/2007 1.1 ± 0.67 (1.0) 7.4 ± 1.8 (2.0) -13 ± 14 (24) 

ER-OV-06A 11/6/2007 5.3 ± 1.3 (1.0) 9.0 ± 2.0 (2.2) -12 ± 14 (23) 

PM-3 (1560 ft bgs) 6/12/2007 2.1 ± 0.80 (1.0) 15 ± 2.7 (1.8) 15 ± 14 (23) 

PM-3 (1560 ft bgs) FD 6/12/2007 0.65 ± 0.61 (1.0) 14 ± 2.5 (1.5) 17 ± 14 (23) 

PM-3 (1993 ft bgs) 6/12/2007 2.2 ± 0.84 (1.1) 9.8 ± 2.1 (2.0) 16 ± 14 (22) 

 Private / Community Drinking Water Wells 

Roger Bright Ranch 11/13/2007 4.7 ± 1.5 (1.9) 11 ± 1.1 (1.1) -17 ± 14 (24) 

School Well 11/13/2007 0.16 ± 1.2 (2.1) 9.2 ± 0.91 (0.69) -1.0 ± 14 (23) 

Tolicha Peak 11/13/2007 NS(g) NS -10 ± 14 (24) 

Tolicha Peak FD 11/13/2007 NS NS -2.2 ± 14 (24) 

U.S. Ecology 11/13/2007 5.5 ± 1.6 (2.0) 4.9 ± 0.74 (0.90) 2.1 ± 14 (23) 

Green shaded results are considered detected (result is greater than the sample specific MDC) 

Yellow shaded results are any which are equal to or greater than the EPA-designated levels shown below for each analyte: 

(a) ±2 standard deviations 

(b) The EPA established MCL in drinking water for gross alpha (α) is 15 pCi/L 

(c) The EPA “Level of Concern” in drinking water for gross beta (β) is 50 pCi/L 

(d) The EPA established MCL in drinking water for tritium (3H) is 20,000 pCi/L 

(e) FD = field duplicate sample 

(f) NA = Not Applicable - analysis was not run on the sample 

(g) NS = not scheduled for analysis in 2007, analysis run once every 2–3 years, last analyzed in 2006 

There are no noticeable trends over time in gross beta activity among the offsite wells (Figures 4-4 and 4-5). Gross 

alpha, however, has shown a decrease in three Oasis Valley wells (ER-OV-01, ER-OV-02, and ER-OV-03A) over 

time (Figures 4-6 and 4-7). Nearly all measured gross alpha and gross beta levels are below EPA MCL or levels of 

concern for drinking water. In 2007, the Oasis Valley wells were purged and sampled with a pump, which resulted in 

slightly lower gross alpha and gross beta activities. Previously, many of these wells were not purged and were sampled 

with a bailer. 

There are no detectable trends in tritium activity from 2000 to 2007 (Figures 4-8 and 4-9). Most measured tritium 

concentrations are below their MDCs. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-9

Offsite Wells Gross Beta

2000-2007

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

Northwest

Oasis Valley

Mean MDC

MCL

Figure 4-4. Gross beta levels in wells that are in and northwest of Oasis Valley from 2000 to 2007 

Offsite Wells Gross Beta

2000-2007

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

Beatty to Amargosa Valley

Southwest

South

Mean MDC

MCL

Figure 4-5. Gross beta levels in wells in areas west, southwest, and south of the NTS from 2000 to 2007 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Offsite Wells Gross Alpha

2000-2007

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

Northwest

Oasis Valley

Mean MDC

MCL

Figure 4-6. Gross alpha levels in wells that are in and northwest of Oasis Valley from 2000 to 2007 

Offsite Wells Gross Alpha

2000-2007

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

Beatty to Amargosa Valley

Southwest

South

Mean MDC

MCL

Figure 4-7. Gross alpha levels in wells in areas west, southwest, and south of the NTS from 2000 to 2007 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-11

Offsite Wells Tritium

2000-2007

-30

-20

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

Northwest

Oasis Valley

Mean MDC

PLall

Figure 4-8. Tritium levels in wells that are in and northwest of Oasis Valley from 2000 to 2007 

Offsite Wells Tritium

2000-2007

-30

-20

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

Beatty to Amargosa Valley

Southwest

South

Mean MDC

PLall

Figure 4-9. Tritium levels in wells in areas west, southwest, and south of the NTS from 2000 to 2007 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

4.1.5 Results from Offsite Springs 

No detectable concentrations of tritium were found in the offsite springs sampled (Table 4-2, Figure 4-3). There were 

no analyses for man-made or natural gamma-emitting radionuclides in 2007 on samples from offsite springs. 

The Barn Spring is not a RREMP location, but was sampled opportunistically. Gross alpha was quantified above the 

MDC and the EPA-established MCL for drinking water. The other offsite springs were not scheduled to be sampled 

for gross alpha or gross beta analyses. This measurable gross alpha radioactivity is likely from natural sources. 

Trends over time in gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium in the eight offsite springs being sampled on a routine 

schedule are shown in Figures 4-10 through 4-12. In these figures, offsite springs are grouped by areas which include 

those west of the NTS and those south of the NTS (see Figure 4-3). Among the eight offsite springs there are no 

detectable trends in gross alpha (Figure 4-10) or gross beta activity (Figure 4-11) or in tritium concentrations from 

2000 to 2007 (Figure 4-12). Alpha and beta levels have mostly been below the EPA MCL for drinking water, and 

tritium concentrations have all been below their MDCs. 

 Table 4-2. Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for offsite springs in 2007 

Monitoring 

Location 

Date 

Sampled 

Gross α ± 

Uncertainty (MDC)(a)

(pCi/L)(b)

Gross β ± 

Uncertainty (MDC) 

(pCi/L)(c) 

3H ± 

Uncertainty (MDC) 

(pCi/L)( d)

Barn Spring 11/13/2007 19 ± 2.4 (1.9) 0.79 ± 0.66 (0.87) 6.8 ± 14 (23) 

Peacock Ranch 11/13/2007 NS(g) NS -2.9 ± 13 (22) 

Revert Spring 11/13/2007 NS NS -4.5 ± 14 (24) 

Spicer Ranch 11/13/2007 NS NS -4.3 ± 13 (23) 

Spicer Ranch FD(e) 11/13/2007 NA(f) NA -9.5 ± 14 (24) 

Green shaded results are considered detected (result is greater than the sample specific MDC) 

Yellow shaded result is greater than the EPA-designated levels shown below: 

(a) ±2 standard deviations 

(b) The EPA established MCL in drinking water for gross alpha (α) is 15 pCi/L 

(c) The EPA “Level of Concern” in drinking water for gross beta (β) is 50 pCi/L 

(d) The EPA established MCL in drinking water for tritium (3H) is 20,000 pCi/L 

(e) FD = field duplicate sample 

(f) NA = Specific analysis was not run on the sample 

(g) NS = not scheduled for analysis in 2007, analysis run once every 2–3 years, last analyzed in 2006 

Offsite Springs Gross Alpha

2000-2007

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

West

South

Mean MDC

MCL

Figure 4-10. Gross alpha levels in offsite springs from 2000 to 2007 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-13

Offsite Springs Gross Beta

2000-2007

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

West

South

Mean MDC

MCL

Figure 4-11. Gross beta levels in offsite springs from 2000 to 2007 

Offsite Springs Tritium

2000-2007

-30

-20

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

West

South

Mean MDC

PLall

Figure 4-12. Tritium concentrations in offsite springs from 2000 to 2007 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-14 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

4.1.6 Results from NTS Water Supply Wells 

Results from the nine NTS water wells (five permitted potable and four non-potable) sampled in 2007 (see Figure 4-2) 

continue to indicate that nuclear testing has not impacted the NTS water supply network. Prior to 1994, WW C-1 had 

a history of validated tritium detections because this well was injected with approximately 0.1 to 0.2 curies of tritium 

in 1962 by a researcher conducting a tracer test (Lyles, 1990). Since 1995, tritium concentrations in WW C-1 have 

remained below the MDCs. 

The radiological analytes that were principally detectable in the NTS water supply wells are gross alpha and gross beta 

radioactivity (Table 4-3). This activity likely represents the presence of naturally occurring radionuclides, since there 

was a general lack of corresponding detectable man-made radionuclides in the samples. Gross alpha was quantified at 

the EPA-established MCL of 15 pCi/L in the grab sample from WW C-1 collected in April. However, the field 

duplicate collected at the same time and the three other samples collected during 2007 were below the MDCs. None 

of the remaining gross alpha or gross beta activity concentrations exceeded the EPA-established Level of Concern or 

the MCLs for drinking water (Table 4-3). 

No man-made radionuclides were detected in the water supply well samples. 

These nine wells have been sampled routinely since 1999. No detectable trends in gross alpha activity (Figure 4-13), 

gross beta activity (Figure 4-14), or in tritium concentrations (Figure 4-15) have been found from 2000 to 2007. 

The Nevada State Health Division, Bureau of Health Protection Services (BHPS) independently sampled all the NTS 

water supply wells, except WW 5B, in 2007. BHPS and NSTec ETS personnel sampled supply wells at the same time 

in January 2007. The BHPS sample results also indicate that man-made radionuclides are at or below their MDCs and 

that naturally occurring radioactive materials such as thorium and uranium decay chain radionuclides are within 

normal ranges (BHPS, 2007). 

Table 4-3. Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for NTS water supply wells in 2007 

Monitoring 

Location 

Date 

Sampled 

Gross α ± 

Uncertainty (MDC)(a) 

(pCi/L)(b) 

Gross β ± 

Uncertainty (MDC) 

(pCi/L)(c) 

3H ± 

Uncertainty 

(MDC) (pCi/L)( d)

Permitted Potable Wells 

J-12 WW 1/23/2007 -0.88 ± 1.2 (2.0) 3.3 ± 0.56 (0.65) 15 ± 16 (28) 

 1/23/2007 FD 1.4 ± 1.3 (2.0) 3.5 ± 0.97 (1.0) -2.2 ± 13 (23) 

 4/10/2007 0.51 ± 1.1 (1.9) 3.9 ± 0.78 (0.83) -11 ± 12 (20) 

 7/17/2007 0.82 ± 0.51 (0.79) 3.8 ± 1.2 (1.9) 2.9 ± 14 (23) 

 10/16/2007 0.087 ± 0.99 (2.0) 3.7 ± 0.81 0.88 -2.4 ± 13 (23) 

 

WW #4 1/23/2007 7.1 ± 1.8 (1.9) 5.0 ± 0.73 (0.72) 8.3 ± 16 (27) 

 4/10/2007 8.5 ± 1.7 (2.0) 4.7 ± 0.74 (0.86) -0.92 ± 13 (22) 

 7/17/2007 5.7 ± 1.4 (1.1) 5.5 ± 1.5 (2.2) -4.8 ± 14 (23) 

 10/16/2007 4.5 ± 2.0 (2.0) 6.7 ± 1.1 (0.89) -4.6 ± 10 (17) 

 10/16/2007 FD 5.4 ± 1.5 (1.7) 3.9 ± 0.62 (0.64) -3.1 ± 10 (18) 

 

WW #4A 1/23/2007 7.4 ± 2.3 (2.0) 5.0 ± 1.0 (0.95) 15 ± 17 (28) 

 4/10/2007 8.5 ± 2.0 (2.0) 5.0 ± 0.79 (0.81) 1.8 ± 13 (21) 

 7/17/2007 5.8 ± 1.2 (0.70) 6.5 ± 1.5 (1.7) -4.1 ± 13 (22) 

 7/17/2007 FD NA(f) NA 3.0 ± 13 (22) 

 10/16/2007 1.4 ± 1.3 (2.0) 2.3 ± 0.86 (1.1) 0.64 ± 11 (18) 

 10/16/2007 FD 5.5 ± 1.9 (1.8) 4.8 ± 0.89 (0.83) NA 

 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-15

Table 4-3. Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for NTS water supply wells in 2007 (continued) 

Monitoring 

Location 

Date 

Sampled 

Gross α ± 

Uncertainty (MDC)(a) 

(pCi/L)(b) 

Gross β ± 

Uncertainty (MDC) 

(pCi/L)(c) 

3H ± 

Uncertainty 

(MDC) (pCi/L)( d)

Permitted Potable Wells (continued) 

WW 5B 4/10/2007 6.5 ± 1.9 (1.9) 11 ± 1.2 (1.1) 2.2 ± 13 (22) 

 4/10/2007 FD 2.7 ± 1.2 (1.7) 2.1 ± 0.47 (0.61) NA 

 7/17/2007 3.0 ± 0.96 (1.1) 13 ± 2.4 (2.0) -2.4 ± 13 (22) 

 7/17/2007 FD NA NA 3.0 ± 14 (23) 

 10/16/2007 3.0 ± 1.3 (1.9) 10 ± 0.64 0.56 -3.0 ± 10 (18) 

 

WW 8 1/23/2007 -0.85 ± 1.0 (1.7) 2.5 ± 0.76 (0.91) 8.9 ± 13 (22) 

 4/10/2007 1.1 ± 1.2 (1.9) 3.9 ± 0.92 (1.0) -11 ± 13 (22) 

 4/10/2007 FD NA NA -1.1 ± 13 (21) 

 7/17/2007 0.68 ± 0.65 (1.2) 3.8 ± 1.2 (1.9) -10 ± 13 (23) 

 10/16/2007 -0.06 ± 0.75 (1.6) 1.7 ± 0.77 (1.0) -5.7 ± 10 (18) 

Non-Potable Wells 

Army #1 WW 1/23/2007 2.2 ± 1.4 (2.0) 3.2 ± 0.83 (1.0) 14 ± 17 (28) 

 1/23/2007 FD(e) -2.3 ± 1.3 (2.0) 3.4 ± 0.45 (0.57) NA 

 4/10/2007 0.053 ± 1.1 (2.0) 3.3 ± 0.68 (0.92) 5.5 ± 12 (19) 

 7/17/2007 3.3 ± 1.0 (1.1) 4.6 ± 1.3 (1.9) -3.4 ± 14 (23) 

 10/16/2007 2.1 ± 1.3 (1.8) 3.6 ± 0.65 (0.76) -1.5 ± 11 (18) 

 10/16/2007 FD NA NA 3.2 ± 11 (18) 

 

UE-16D WW 1/23/2007 4.6 ± 1.5 (2.0) 4.9 ± 0.63 (0.72) 4.1 ± 16 (28) 

 4/10/2007 6.6 ± 1.6 (1.9) 4.9 ± 0.78 (0.92) -7.8 ± 13 (21) 

 7/17/2007 7.3 ± 1.6 (1.0) 7.9 ± 1.8 (2.0) -8.2 ± 13 (22) 

 7/17/2007 FD 9.7 ± 2.0 (1.2) 8.3 ± 2.0 (2.3) NA 

 10/16/2007 3.0 ± 1.4 (2.0) 4.1 ± 0.64 (0.74) -3.4 ± 10 (18) 

 

WW 5C 1/23/2007 14 ± 2.3 (1.7) 6.7 ± 0.89 (0.84) -7.2 ± 15 (28) 

 4/10/2007 12 ± 2.2 (2.0) 5.8 ± 0.75 (0.70) -7.1 ± 12 (21) 

 4/10/2007 FD NA NA -8.6 ± 12 (21) 

 7/17/2007 4.6 ± 1.3 (1.4) 7.7 ± 1.9 (2.5) -17 ± 13 (22) 

 7/17/2007 FD 5.0 ± 1.4 (1.3) 7.8 ± 2.0 (2.5) NA 

 10/16/2007 8.7 ± 1.8 (2.0) 4.8 ± 0.66 (0.73) 6.8 ± 11 (19) 

 

WW C-1 1/23/2007 9.2 ± 1.9 (1.9) 14 ± 1.1 (1.0) 14 ± 17 (28) 

 4/10/2007 15 ± 2.3 (2.0) 10 ± 1.2 (1.3) -4.5 ± 13 (23) 

 4/10/2007 FD 13 ± 2.3 (1.9) 12 ± 1.1 (1.0) NA 

 7/17/2007 13 ± 2.5 (1.3) 16 ± 3.2 (3.1) -1.5 ± 13 (23) 

 10/16/2007 11 ± 2.2 (2.0) 11 ± 0.94 (0.94) -0.12 ± 10 (18) 

Green shaded results are considered detected (result is greater than the sample specific MDC)

Yellow shaded result is greater than the EPA-designated levels shown below: 

(a) ±2 standard deviations 

(b) The EPA established MCL in drinking water for gross alpha (α) is 15 pCi/L 

(c) The EPA “Level of Concern” in drinking water for gross beta (β) is 50 pCi/L 

(d) The EPA established MCL in drinking water for tritium (3H) is 20,000 pCi/L 

(e) FD = field duplicate sample 

(f) NA = Specific analysis was not run on the sample 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-16 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

NTS Water Supply Wells Gross Alpha 2000-2007

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

Areas 5 & 6

Areas 16, 18, 22, & 25

Mean MDC

MCL

Figure 4-13. Gross alpha levels in NTS water supply wells from 2000 to 2007 

NTS Water Supply Wells Gross Beta 2000-2007

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

Areas 5 & 6

Areas 16, 18, 22, & 25

Mean MDC

MCL

Figure 4-14. Gross beta levels in NTS water supply wells from 2000 to 2007 

NTS Water Supply Wells Tritium 2000-2007

-30

-20

-10

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

01-Jan-00 31-Dec-01 01-Jan-04 31-Dec-05 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

Areas 5 & 6

Areas 16, 18, 22, & 25

Mean MDC

PLall

Figure 4-15. Tritium concentration in NTS water supply wells from 2000 to 2007 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-17

4.1.7 Results from NTS Monitoring Wells 

Analytical results from the network of onsite monitoring wells (see Figure 4-2) indicate that migration of radionuclides 

from the underground test areas is not significant. Four onsite monitoring wells (PM-1, U-19BH, UE-7NS, and 

WW A) are known to have detectable concentrations of tritium, although they are all well below the EPA MCL of 

20,000 pCi/L. Each of these four wells is located within 1 kilometer (km) (0.6 miles [mi]) of an historical 

underground nuclear test. These wells are discussed below, and their historic tritium concentrations are shown in 

Figure 4-16. Tritium was not detectable in other samples from onsite monitoring wells during 2007 (Table 4-4). 

PM-1 – This well is located in the Central Pahute Mesa CAU. It is constructed with unslotted casing from the surface 

to 2,300 m (7,546 ft) bgs and is an open hole from 2,300 to 2,356 m (7,546 to 7,730 ft) bgs. Results from depth 

profile sampling below the static water level in 2001 show a decreasing tritium concentration with depth, indicating 

that tritium is entering the borehole near the static water level at approximately 643 m (2,109 ft) bgs. Potential 

sources include the underground nuclear tests FARM (U-20ab), GREELEY (U-20g), and KASSERI (U-20z). 

The FARM test is closest to PM-1 but is believed to be down-gradient. GREELY and KASSERI tests are both 

upgradient from PM-1 at distances of 2,429 m (7,969 ft) and 1,196 m (3,924 ft), respectively. 

U-19BH – This well is located in the Central Pahute Mesa CAU. It is an unexpended emplacement borehole. There 

were several nuclear detonations conducted near U-19BH, but the source of the tritium in the borehole is unclear. 

Previous investigations suggest that the water in the well originates from a perched aquifer, but identifying the 

likely source of tritium is difficult due to a lack of data regarding the perched system (Brikowski et al., 1993). The 

results from a tracer test conducted in the well indicate that there is minimal flow across the borehole (Brikowski 

et al., 1993). The lack of measurable flow in the well suggests that the chemistry of the water sampled from the 

borehole may not be representative of the aquifer. The tritium concentrations measured since 1999 at U-19BH 

show a downward trend (Figure 4-16). 

UE-7NS – This well is located in the Yucca Flat CAU and was drilled 137 m (449 ft) from the BOURBON 

underground nuclear test (U-7n) which was conducted in 1967. This well was routinely sampled between 1978 

and 1987, with the resumption of sampling in 1991. Tritium levels in this well have been decreasing in recent years 

(Figure 4-16). UE-7NS is the second known location on the NTS where the regionally important lower carbonate 

aquifer (LCA) has been impacted by radionuclides from nuclear testing (Smith et al., 1999). The first location 

where the LCA has been impacted by radionuclides from nuclear testing is Well UE-2CE located less the 200 m 

(656 ft) from the NASH test conducted in Yucca Flat in 1967. Well UE-2CE is not currently configured for 

routine sampling. 

WW A – This well is completed in alluvium in the Yucca Flat CAU. It is located within 1 km (0.6 mi) of 

14 underground nuclear tests, most of which appear to be up-gradient of the well. The well has had measurable 

tritium since the late 1980s. The marked increase between 1985 and 1999 suggests inflow of tritium to this well 

from the HAYMAKER underground nuclear test (U-3aus) conducted in 1962, 524 m (1,720 ft) north of WW A. 

This well, which supplied non-potable water for construction, was shut down in the early 1990s. The tritium 

concentrations measured since 2000 at WW A indicate a slight downward trend (Figure 4-16). 

Detectable concentrations of gross alpha and gross beta were present in water collected from NTS onsite monitoring 

wells in 2007. The low measurable gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity in these wells is likely from natural 

sources. The gross beta activity in ER-19-1 is consistent with the concentration reported from the 2005 sampling, and 

may likely be attributed to elevated levels of dissolved solids. No man-made radionuclides were detected by gamma 

spectroscopy analyses at concentrations above their respective MDCs in any of the NTS monitoring wells in 2007. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-18 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 4-4. Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for NTS monitoring wells in 2007 

Monitoring Location 

Date 

Sampled 

Gross α ± 

Uncertainty 

(MDC)(a) (pCi/L)(b)

Gross β ± 

Uncertainty 

(MDC) (pCi/L)(c) 

3H ± 

Uncertainty 

(MDC) (pCi/L)( d)

ER-19-1 (2710 ft bgs) 5/9/2007 0.76 ± 3.2 (4.6) 260 ± 45 (9.8) -1.7 ± 13 (23) 

ER-19-1 (3280 ft bgs) 5/9/2007 18 ± 5.5 (3.7) 20 ± 6.9 (9.4) 3.2 ± 13 (22) 

ER-19-1 (3280 ft bgs) FD(e) 5/9/2007 4.4 ± 1.4 (0.83) 30 ± 5.4 (2.0) -9.0 ± 13 (22) 

 

ER-20-1 10/31/2007 3.9 ± 1.1 (1.1) 4.8 ± 1.3 (1.8) 8.8 ± 12 (20) 

ER-20-1 FD 10/31/2007 NA(f) NA 4.6 ± 12 (20) 

 

ER-20-2 #1 6/13/2007 5.1 ± 1.3 (1.1) 6.8 ± 2.0 (2.6) -2.2 ± 13.3 (23) 

ER-20-2 #1 FD 6/13/2007 4.4 ± 1.2 (1.1) 6.6 ± 1.8 (2.2) NA 

 

HTH #1 (1935 ft bgs) 5/8/2007 NS(g) NS 3.2 ± 13 (22) 

HTH #1 (2040 ft bgs) 5/8/2007 NS NS 5 ± 14 (22) 

HTH #1 (2130 ft bgs) 5/8/2007 NS NS 4.5 ± 13 (22) 

HTH #1 (2300 ft bgs) 5/8/2007 NS NS 9.7 ± 14 (22) 

HTH #1 (2300 ft bgs) FD 5/8/2007 NA NA -2.0 ± 13 (22) 

 

SM-23-1 10/24/2007 NS NS 5.9 ± 12 (20) 

SM-23-1 FD 10/24/2007 NA NA 8.7 ± 12 (20) 

 

U-19BH 5/8/2007 NS NS 23 ± 14 (22) 

 

UE-18R (1700 ft bgs) 4/17/2007 8.7 ± 1.9 (0.90) 3.4 ± 1.2 1.9 2.6 ± 13 (22) 

UE-18R (1700 ft bgs) FD 4/17/2007 NA NA 2.6 ± 13 (21) 

UE-18R (2130 ft bgs) 4/17/2007 12 ± 2.5 (0.94) 4.6 ± 1.3 (1.9) 1.6 ± 13 (21) 

 

UE-1Q 3/13/2007 NS NS 1.0 ± 13 (21) 

 

UE5PW-1(h) 3/19/2007 5.8 ± 1.8 (1.4) 4.9 ± 1.2 (1.4) -4.7 ± 14 (24) 

UE5PW-1 FD 3/19/2007 NA NA -16 ± 14 (24) 

UE5PW-1 8/29/2007 NA NA -8.5 ± 14 (23) 

UE5PW-1 FD 8/29/2007 NA NA -6.0 ± 14 (23) 

 

UE5PW-2(h) 3/19/2007 3.4 ± 1.6 (1.7) 4.7 ± 1.1 (1.3) -2.6 ± 13 (21) 

UE5PW-2 FD 3/19/2007 NA NA -13 ± 12 (21) 

UE5PW-2 8/29/2007 NA NA -4.5 ± 14 (24) 

UE5PW-2 FD 8/29/2007 NA NA -6.7 ± 14 (23) 

 

UE5PW-3(h) 3/19/2007 4.0 ± 1.6 (1.4) 4.2 ± 1.1 (1.2) -2.9 ± 14 (24) 

UE5PW-3 FD 3/19/2007 NA NA -5.4 ± 14 (24) 

UE5PW-3 9/5/2007 NA NA -6.5 ± 14 (23) 

UE5PW-3 FD 9/5/2007 NA NA -4.8 ± 14 (23) 

 

UE-7NS 5/16/2007 NS NS 98 ± 21 (21) 

UE-7NS FD 5/16/2007 NA NA 86 ± 20 (22) 

 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-19

Table 4-4. Gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium analysis results for NTS monitoring wells in 2007 (continued)

Monitoring Location 

Date 

Sampled 

Gross α ± 

Uncertainty 

(MDC)(a) (pCi/L)(b)

Gross β ± 

Uncertainty 

(MDC) (pCi/L)(c) 

3H ± 

Uncertainty (MDC) 

(pCi/L)( d)

Test Well D 3/13/2007 NS NS -4.1 ± 14 (24) 

 

WW A 3/14/2007 NS NS 390 ± 62 (22) 

WW A FD 3/14/2007 NA NA 360 ± 59 (21) 

 

WELL PM-1 6/13/2007 0.15 ± 0.73 (1.3) 6.2 ± 1.9 2.5 132 ± 26 (23) 

Green shaded results are considered detected (result is greater than the sample specific MDC) 

Yellow shaded results are any which are equal to or greater than the EPA-designated levels shown below for each analyte: 

(a) ±2 standard deviations 

(b) The EPA established MCL in drinking water for gross alpha (α) is 15 pCi/L 

(c) The EPA “Level of Concern” in drinking water for gross beta (β) is 50 pCi/L 

(d) The EPA established MCL in drinking water for tritium (3H) is 20,000 pCi/L 

(e) FD = field duplicate sample 

(f) NA = Specific analysis was not run on the sample 

(g) NS = not scheduled for analysis in 2007, analysis run once every 2–3 years, last analyzed in 2006 

(h) Compliance well for validation of waste pit P03U at Area 5 RWMS (see Section 9.1.6) 

Monitoring Wells with Historically Elevated Tritium

1

10

100

1000

10000

100000

01-Jan-84 01-Jan-92 01-Jan-00 01-Jan-08

Collection Date

pCi/L

PM-1

UE-7NS

U-19BH

Water Well A

MCL

PLall

Figure 4-16. Concentrations of tritium in wells with a history of detectable levels 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-20 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

4.1.8 Results from NTS E Tunnel Ponds 

Five primary basins were constructed to collect and hold water discharged from the E Tunnels in Area 12 where 

nuclear testing was conducted in the past (see Figure 4-3). The water is perched groundwater that has percolated 

through fractures in the tunnel system. The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) conducts monitoring of 

effluent waters from E Tunnel to determine if radionuclides and nonradiological contaminants exceed the allowable 

contaminant levels regulated under a state water pollution control permit (NEV 96021), which is issued to DTRA. 

During October 2006, a DTRA contract company sampled the tunnel effluent near where water is discharged. 

During November, NSTec personnel sampled tunnel effluent, water from Pond 4, water from Pond 5, and sediment 

from the basin of Ponds 3, 4, and 5. Effluent water was analyzed by DTRA for tritium, gross alpha, and gross beta 

(Table 4-5) and for 16 nonradiological contaminants and water quality parameters (DTRA, 2007). All other samples 

were analyzed by NSTec for tritium (water samples only), gamma-emitting radionuclides, plutonium, 90Sr, and 241Am 

(Table 4-6). 

Table 4-5. Radiological results for E Tunnel Pond effluent pertaining to Water Pollution Control 

Permit NEV 96021 

Parameter Permissible Limit (pCi/L) Average Measured Value (pCi/L) 

Tritium 1,000,000 590,000 

Gross Alpha 35 12.1 

Gross Beta 100 49.3 

 Source: Water Pollution Control Permit NEV 96021 Quarterly Monitoring Report and Annual Summary Report 

 for E Tunnel Waste Water Disposal System (DTRA, 2007) 

All samples had concentrations of at least one radionuclide above their MDCs (Table 4-6), with tritium being the 

highest. While tritium concentrations in pond water and tunnel effluent were elevated, they were about 40 percent 

lower than the limit allowed under permit NEV 96021 for that discharge system (Table 4-5). Tritium was found in all 

tunnel effluent and pond water samples at concentrations slightly higher than last year’s samples but about the same 

as samples taken in 2005 (Figure 4-17). Concentrations of 90Sr, 137Cs, plutonium, and 241Am were at levels comparable 

with the past five years. 

Due to the elevated concentrations of radionuclides in the E Tunnel containment ponds, the ponds are fenced and 

posted with radiological warning signs. Given that the ponds are available to wildlife, animals are also sampled under 

RREMP monitoring to assess potential radiological doses to wildlife and to humans consuming game animals (see 

Section 7.0 and Section 8.0). 
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-21 Table 4-6. Routine radiological water monitoring results for E-Tunnel Ponds in 2007 Sample 

3H ± Uncertainty(a)

(MDC) 

90Sr ± Uncertainty 

(MDC) 

137Cs ± 

Uncertainty 

(MDC) 

238Pu ± Uncertainty 

(MDC) 

239+240Pu ± Uncertain

(MDC) 

Water - Concentration units are pCi/L Influent to Pond 4 624000 ± 95200 (1460) 0.147 ± 0.245 (0.540) 14.3 ± 5.6 (7.7) 0.046 ± 0.030 (0.013) 0.212 ± 0.074 (0.043Pond 4 Water 613000 ± 93600 (1450) 0.371 ± 0.282 (0.562) 13.8 ± 5.7 (8.0) 0.037 ± 0.027 (0.031) 0.307 ± 0.086 (0.010Pond 5 Water 607000 ± 92700 (1430) 0.339 ± 0.261 (0.522) 11.5 ± 6.1 (9.0) 0.031 ± 0.023 (0.024) 0.271 ± 0.078 (0.024Pond 5 Water FD(b) 606000 ± 92500 (1430) 0.514 ± 0.298 (0.541) 15.2 ± 5.7 (7.9) 0.037 ± 0.024 (0.010) 0.312 ± 0.086 (0.025Sediment - Concentration units are pCi/g Pond 3 Sediment NA(c) 1.530 ± 0.515 (0.539) 48.4 ± 6.0 (0.4) 0.208 ± 0.043 (0.005) 2.510 ± 0.415 (0.002Pond 4 Sediment NA 0.569 ± 0.311 (0.534) 45.4 ± 5.6 (0.5) 0.144 ± 0.032 (0.005) 1.680 ± 0.279 (0.002Pond 4 Sediment FD NA 0.442 ± 0.282 (0.520) 70.6 ± 8.5 (0.4) 0.190 ± 0.040 (0.005) 1.670 ± 0.280 (0.002Pond 5 Sediment NA 0.364 ± 0.260 (0.496) 23.7 ± 3.0 (0.3) 0.038 ± 0.016 (0.012) 0.384 ± 0.078 (0.012

Green shaded results are considered detected (results greater than the sample-specific MDC) (a) ± 2 standard deviations (b) FD = Field duplicate (c) Not applicable: tritium is not measured in samples that do not contain water 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-22 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Figure 4-17. Tritium concentration in E Tunnel Ponds from 1995 to 2007 

4.1.9 Results from NTS Sewage Lagoons 

Each sewage lagoon at the NTS is part of a closed system used for the evaporative treatment of sanitary sewage. 

Sewage storage and treatment at the NTS has transitioned from lagoons to septic systems at several locations in recent 

years. Two permitted sewage lagoons remain: Area 6 Yucca and Area 23 Mercury (A23) (see Figure 4-3). The permit 

for these lagoons (GNEV93001) requires annual monitoring of gross alpha, gross beta, and tritium radioactivity. 

NSTec Solid Waste Operations collects annual samples to demonstrate compliance. To more completely demonstrate 

the proper management of effluents on the NTS, limited radiological analyses (tritium and gamma spectroscopy) are 

also conducted for these lagoons under the RREMP (DOE, 2003a). 

Results of sampling demonstrate radionuclide concentrations lower than permit limits (Table 4-7). No man-made 

gamma-emitting radionuclides were detected in any RREMP sewage lagoon sample. 

Table 4-7. Radiological results for sewage lagoon effluent pertaining to Water Pollution Control General 

Permit GNEV 93001 

Monitoring 

Location 

Date 

Sampled 

Gross α ± 

Uncertainty(a) (MDC) 

(pCi/L) 

Gross β ± 

Uncertainty (MDC) 

(pCi/L) 

3H ± 

Uncertainty (MDC) 

(pCi/L) 

Area 6 Yucca 06/24/2007 4.4 ± 1.4 (1.5) 35 ± 6.0 (2.6) -103 ± 183 (313) 

 06/24/2007 FD(b) 5.0 ± 1.4 (1.5) 32 ± 5.5 (2.7) -28 ± 184 (312) 

Area 23 Mercury 06/24/2007 2.6 ± 1.3 (1.9) 28 ± 4.8 (2.5) -51 ± 183 (311) 

Permissible Limit 15 50 20,000 

(a) ± 2 standard deviations 

(b) FD = Field duplicate 

0.0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1.0

1.2

1.4

1.6

1.8

2.0

Jan-95 Jan-96 Jan-97 Jan-98 Jan-99 Jan-00 Jan-01 Jan-02 Jan-03 Jan-04 Jan-05 Jan-06 Jan-07 Jan-08

Tritium Concentration ( x 10 6 pCi/L)

Pond Influent

Pond Water
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-23 

4.1.10 UGTA Wells 

The UGTA Subproject (see Chapter 14) pumped and collected groundwater samples from three wells in 2007: RNM 

#1, RNM #2S, and U-3cn PS #2 (Figure 4-18). These wells are classified as contaminated. The wells were purged 

using downhole electric submersible pumps prior to the collection of samples. A multi-agency team consisting of 

personnel from LANL and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) collected the groundwater samples and 

analyzed them for tritium and other radionulcides. The resultant tritium concentrations are shown in Table 4-8. 

Table 4-8. Radiochemistry analysis results from UGTA well samples analyzed in 2007 

UGTA Well Date Sampled 

3H ± ERR(a) (DL)(b)

pCi/L 

RNM #1 3/06/2007 900 ± 400 (500)

RNM #1 FD(c) 3/06/2007 600 ± 300 (500)

RNM #2S 3/07/2007 88,000 ± 60,000 (500)

RNM #2S FD 3/07/2007 9,300 ± 6,000 (500)

U-3cn PS #2 11/29/2007 7,700,000 ± 79,000 (83) 

U-3cn PS #2 FD 11/29/2007 NA(d)

(a) ERR = the range of error in the measurement based on the reported value, taking into 

 account the instrument detection limit (IDL) (see Glossary, Appendix B) 

(b) DL = sample detection limit reported by laboratory 

(c) FD = Field duplicate 

(d) No analysis of 3H was conducted for this field duplicate 

4.1.11 Environmental Impact 

The 2007 tritium data provide no evidence that radionuclides have traveled significant distances from underground 

testing areas or to offsite water supply wells or springs. None of the offsite springs, the private offsite water supply 

wells, or the offsite NNSA/NSO monitoring wells sampled had levels of tritium consistently above MDCs. 

Even on the NTS, groundwater monitoring results indicate that migration of radionuclides from the underground test 

areas is not significant. Groundwater from four monitoring wells on the NTS is known to consistently have tritium at 

levels above detection, and they are each within 1 km (0.6 mi) of an historical underground nuclear test. They have 

the highest levels of tritium of all wells monitored under the RREMP. Their concentrations of tritium are still less 

than 3 percent of the EPA MCL for drinking water of 20,000 pCi/L, and no trend of rising tritium concentrations in 

these wells have been observed since 2000. 

The radiological impact to water resources from current and past activities on the NTS is groundwater contamination 

from man-made radionuclides within the UGTA Subproject CAUs shown in Figure 4-1. The current NTS activity of 

containing tritium-contaminated waters in lined sumps (as for the UGTA Subproject post-shot wells) and in the E 

Tunnel ponds exposes NTS wildlife to tritium in their drinking water or aquatic habitat. The effect on wildlife to this 

radiological exposure is addressed in Section 8.2 of this report and in previous annual NTS environmental reports. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-24 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 Figure 4-18. UGTA Subproject wells on and off the NTS 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-25 

4.2 Nonradiological Drinking Water and Wastewater Monitoring 

The quality of drinking water and wastewater on the NTS is regulated by federal and state laws. The design, 

construction, operation, and maintenance of many of the drinking water and wastewater systems are regulated under 

state permits. NSTec is tasked with ensuring that such systems meet the applicable water quality standards and permit 

requirements (see Section 2.2). The NTS nonradiological water monitoring goals are shown below. NSTec 

Environmental Services (ES) personnel met these goals by conducting field water sampling and analyses, performing 

assessments, and maintaining documentation. This section describes the results of 2007 activities. Radiological 

monitoring of drinking water on and off the NTS is presented in the preceding Sections 4.1.4 and 4.1.6. 

 

Nonradiological Water Monitoring Goals Compliance Measures/Actions 

Ensure that the operation of NTS public water systems 

(PWSs) and private water systems provide high-quality 

drinking water to workers and visitors of the NTS. 

Determine if NTS PWS are operated in accordance with the 

requirements in Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) 445A 

under permits issued by the state. 

Determine if the operation of commercial septic systems to 

process domestic wastewater on the NTS meets operational 

standards in accordance with the requirements NAC 445A 

under permits issued by the state. 

Determine if the operation of industrial wastewater systems 

on the NTS meets operational standards of federal and state 

regulations as prescribed under the GNEV93001 state 

permit. 

Number of PWS samples containing coliform 

bacteria 

Concentration of inorganic Phase II and V 

chemicals, volatile organic Phase I, II, and V 

chemicals, and Secondary Standards 

contaminants in PWS samples 

Measurements of 5-day biological oxygen 

demand (BOD5), total suspended solids (TSS), 

and pH in sewage lagoon water 

Inspection of sewage lagoon systems 

Concentrations of 16 contaminants/water 

quality parameters in E Tunnel effluent water 

4.2.1 Drinking Water Monitoring 

Six permitted wells supply the potable water needs of NTS operations (Figure 4-19). These are grouped into three 

PWSs that were operated by NSTec in 2007 (Figure 4-19). The PWSs are designed, operated, and maintained in 

accordance with the requirements in NAC 445A under permits issued by the BHPS. PWS permits are renewed 

annually. The three PWSs must meet water quality standards for National Primary and Secondary Drinking Water 

Standards. 

For work locations at the NTS that are not part of a PWS, NNSA/NSO hauls potable water in two water tanker 

trucks. The trucks are permitted by the BHPS to haul water to a PWS, and the water they carry is subject to water 

quality standards for coliform bacteria. Normal use of these trucks, however, involves hauling to private water 

systems and to hand-washing stations at construction sites, activities not subject to permitting. NNSA/NSO renews 

the permits for these trucks annually, however, in case of emergency. 

Table 4-9 lists the water quality parameters monitored, sample frequencies, and sample locations. The largest PWS 

(Area 23 and 6) serves the main work areas of the NTS. It was monitored monthly for coliform bacteria at nine 

locations approved by the BHPS within the distribution systems. The two smaller systems (Area 12 and Area 25) 

were monitored quarterly for coliform bacteria. At all building locations, the sampling point for coliform bacteria is 

one of the sinks within one of the building’s bathrooms. Monitoring for other contaminants took place at the four 

points of entry to the PWSs. Although not required by regulation or permit, the private water systems were 

monitored quarterly for coliform bacteria to ensure safe drinking water. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-26 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 Figure 4-19. Water supply wells and drinking water systems on the NTS 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-27 

Table 4-9. Monitoring parameters and sampling design for NTS PWSs and permitted water-hauling trucks 

PWS Contaminant 

2007 Monitoring 

Requirement Monitoring Locations 

Coliform Bacteria 36 samples (3 buildings per 

month and 4 samples per 

building) 

Buildings 5-7, U1H restroom, 6-609, 

6-900, 22-1, 23-180, 23-701, 23-777, 

23-1103 

Area 23 and 6 

Inorganic Phase II and V 

Chemicals 

2 samples (1 per entry point 

per year) 

Two entry points: 4/4A S. Tank, 

Mercury N. Tank 

Volatile Organic Phase I , II , and 

V Chemicals 

 

Secondary Standards 

Coliform Bacteria 4 samples (1 per quarter) Buildings 12-30, 12-909, and Area 12 

Fillstand (a)

Area 12 

Inorganic Phase II Chemicals 1 sample (1 per entry point 

per year) 

One entry point: Area 12 S. Tank 

Area 25 Coliform Bacteria 4 samples (1 per quarter) Building 25-4320 

Inorganic Phase II Chemicals 1 sample (1 per entry point 

per year) 

One entry point: J-11 Tank 

Volatile Organic Phase I, II, and 

V Chemicals 

 

Secondary Standards 

Truck 

Water-Hauling 

Truck 84846 and 

Truck 84847 

Coliform Bacteria 12 samples (1 per month for 

each truck) 

From water tank on each truck after 

filling at Area 6 potable water fill 

stand 

(a) Area 12 coliform sampling locations were changed throughout 2007 due to inactive service connections. The Area 12 Fillstand is the 

newly designated sampling location. 

All water samples were collected in accordance with accepted practices and the analyses were performed by 

state-approved laboratories. Approved analytical methods listed in NAC 445A and Title 40 Code of Federal 

Regulations (CFR) 141 were used by the laboratories. 

In 2007, monitoring results indicated that the PWSs and the permitted water-hauling trucks complied with National 

Primary Drinking Water Quality Standards with two exceptions related to coliform bacteria (Table 4-10). Coliform 

bacteria were absent in all subsequent water samples from the same sources. 

Periodically, NDEP conducts a sanitary survey of the permitted NTS PWSs. It consists of an inspection of the wells, 

tanks, and other visible portions of each PWS to ensure that they are maintained in a sanitary configuration. As noncommunity water systems, the minimum survey frequency is once every five years. NDEP did not perform a sanitary 

survey of the PWSs in 2007. The last sanitary survey was conducted in 2006. 

NDEP inspects the two water-hauling trucks annually at the time of permit renewal to make sure they still meet the 

requirements of NAC 445A. Inspections were performed in 2007 and permits were renewed. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-28 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 4-10. Water quality analysis results for NTS PWSs and permitted water-hauling trucks 

 2007 Results (mg/L) 

Contaminant 

Maximum 

Contaminant 

Level (mg/L) 

Area 23 and 6 PWS Area 12 PWS Area 25 PWS 

Coliform Bacteria Coliforms present 

in 1 sample/month 

Present in 1 sample 

from Truck 84846 in 

November 

Absent in all 

samples 

Present in 1 sample 

from Building 

25-4320 in February 

Inorganic Chemicals – Phase II 

 Fluoride 2.0 0.75–0.78 1.8 1.9 

 Nitrate 10 (as nitrogen) 3.0–4.1 1.1 1.9 

 Nitrite 1 (as nitrogen) NA(a) ND (b) NA 

 Asbestos 7 <0.2 NA <0.2 

Inorganic Chemicals – Phase V 

 Antimony 0.006 <0.00050 NA NA 

 Arsenic 10 7.8–9.1 NA 10 

 Beryllium 0.004 ND NA NA 

 Cyanide 0.2 <0.0022 NA NA 

 Nickel 0.1 ND NA NA 

 Thallium 0.002 <0.00050 NA NA 

Volatile Organic Chemicals – Phase I and II 

 Vinyl chloride 0.002 <0.00042 NA <0.00042 

 Benzene 0.005 <0.00030 NA <0.00030 

 Carbon tetrachloride 0.005 <0.00039 NA <0.00039 

 1, 2-Dichloroethane 0.005 <0.00037 NA <0.00037 

 Trichloroethylene 0.005 <0.00022 NA <0.00022 

 para-Dichlorobenzene 0.075 <0.00023 NA <0.00023 

 1, 1-Dichloroethylene 0.007 <0.00024 NA <0.00024 

 1, 1, 1-Trichloroethane 0.2 <0.00042 NA <0.00042 

 cis-1, 2-Dichloroethylene 0.07 <0.00028 NA <0.00028 

 1, 2-Dichloropropane 0.005 <0.00025 NA <0.00025 

 Ethylbenzene 0.7 <0.00015–0.00025 NA <0.00015 

 Monochlorobenzene 0.1 <0.00028 NA <0.00028 

 o-Dichlorobenzene 0.6 <0.00020 NA <0.00020 

 Styrene 0.1 <0.00027 NA <0.00027 

 Tetrachloroethylene 0.005 <0.00025 NA <0.00025 

 Toluene 1 <0.00033 NA <0.00033 

 trans-1, 2-Dichloroethylene 0.1 <0.00027 NA <0.00027 

 Xylenes (total) 10 <0.00030–1.2 NA <0.00030 

Volatile Organic Chemicals – Phase V 

 Dichloromethane 0.005 <0.00046 NA <0.00046 

 1, 2, 4-Trichlorobenzene 0.07 <0.00028 NA <0.00028 

 1, 1, 2-Trichloroethane 0.005 <0.00033 NA <0.00033 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-29 

Table 4-10. Water quality analysis results for NTS PWSs and permitted water-hauling trucks (continued) 

 2007 Results (mg/L) 

Contaminant 

Maximum 

Contaminant 

Level (mg/L) 

Area 23 and 6 PWS Area 12 PWS Area 25 PWS 

Secondary Standards NA 

 Aluminum 0.2 ND NA 0.05 

 Chloride 400.0 12–22 NA 6.8 

 Copper 1.0 ND NA ND 

 Foaming Agents 0.5 ND NA ND 

 Iron 0.6 ND NA ND 

 Magnesium 150.0 3.8–8.5 NA 1.6 

 Manganese 0.1 ND NA ND 

 Silver 0.1 ND NA ND 

 Sulfate 500.0 40–52 NA 23 

 Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) 1000.00 265–317 NA 205 

 Zinc 5.0 ND NA ND 

(a) NA = Not applicable 

(b) ND = Not detectable 

4.2.2 Domestic Wastewater Monitoring 

To obtain a permit for a proposed new NTS septic system, an assessment is conducted to ensure that the sources 

producing discharges are domestic in nature. NSTec and the State of Nevada conduct this assessment. After the 

design of a new system is completed, a permit package is submitted through NNSA/NSO to the state. Subsequent to 

state approval, a “permit to construct” is issued. After construction, the state conducts a final inspection. Upon 

approval, the state issues a “permit to operate.” 

Over the past years, numerous existing septic systems have been permitted by submitting a narrative describing facility 

operations, flow test results, tank and leach field sizing, engineering drawings, personnel numbers, existing flow 

(volume) information, and a fixture count. The applications were reviewed by the state, onsite inspections were 

conducted by NDEP, and approvals resulted in the issuance of “permits to operate”. Currently, all operating septic 

systems have been issued permits to operate. 

There are seven active septic systems being used in place of inactive lagoons on the NTS (Figure 4-20). These are 

inspected periodically for sediment loading and are pumped as required. A state-permitted septic pumping contractor 

is used. The state conducts onsite inspections of pumper trucks and pumping contractor operations. 

ES personnel perform management assessments of permitted facilities and services to determine and document 

adherence to permit conditions. The assessments are performed according to existing directives and procedures. 

In 2007, the following compliance actions relating to domestic wastewater on the NTS occurred: 

• A septic tank pumping contractor permit (NY-17-03318), septic tank pump truck permits (NY-17-03313, 

NY-17-03315, NY-17-03317, NY-17-06838), and a septic tanker permit (NY-17-06839) were approved by the 

state and renewed in July 2007. 

• The design and construction application for the Area 6 Criticality Experiments Facility septic system was 

terminated due to budget constraints. This new proposed system would have connected into the existing 

permitted DAF septic system. It would have assisted in managing the additional sewage flow generated from an 

increase number of workers when a new training and laboratory complex are constructed. 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-30 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 Figure 4-20. Active permitted sewage disposal systems on the NTS
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 4-31 

4.2.3 Industrial Wastewater Monitoring 

Industrial discharges on the NTS are limited to two operating sewage lagoon systems: Area 6 Yucca Lake and Area 

23 Mercury (these lagoon systems also receive domestic wastewater) (Figure 4-14). The Area 6 Yucca Lake system 

consists of two primary lagoons and two secondary lagoons. All lagoons in this system are lined using compacted 

native soils that meet the State of Nevada requirements for transmissivity (10-7centimeters per second). 

The Area 23 Mercury system consists of one primary lagoon, a secondary lagoon, and an infiltration basin. The 

primary and secondary lagoons in this system use a geosynthetic clay liner and a high-density polyethylene liner. The 

lining of the ponds allows Area 23 lagoons to operate as a fully contained, evaporative, non-discharging system. This 

configuration allowed NNSA/NSO to request a reduction in monitoring requirements, which was granted and 

reflected in Water Pollution Control General Permit GNEV93001 in 2007. 

Both sewage systems are monitored quarterly for influent quality and annually for influent toxicity. The locations 

where water samples were collected for analysis within each sewage system include the following: 

• Each influent headwork for systems where there is direct access to influent flows 

• Each pond near the lagoon’s inlet for systems where there is no direct access to influent flows 

• Each infiltration basin at a place where a sample most closely representing the infiltrating waste water can be 

collected 

Composite samples were collected over a period of 8 hours at the Area 6 Yucca Lake and Area 23 Mercury systems. 

All water samples were collected in accordance with accepted practices, and the analyses were performed by 

state-approved laboratories. Approved analytical methods listed in NAC 445A and Title 40 CFR 141 were used by 

the laboratories. 

4.2.3.1 Quarterly Analysis of Influent Water Quality

A composite sample from each influent headwork was collected quarterly. The composite sample was analyzed for 

three parameters: 5-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5, see Glossary, Appendix B), total suspended solids (TSS), 

and pH (Table 4-11). The compliance limits for these parameters, established under Water Pollution Control General 

Permit GNEV93001, are shown in Table 4-11. All quarterly monitoring results for BOD5, TSS, and pH for sewage 

system influent waters were within permit limits in 2007 with one exception. One BOD5 Mean Daily Load was 

exceeded at the Area 23 Mercury Sewage lagoons in the fourth quarter. The weekly inspection reports were examined 

and there were no problems observed with respect to odor or color, and no septic conditions were observed. The 

Area 23 Mercury Lagoon was resampled in the fourth quarter for BOD5. These results showed that the lagoons were 

once again in compliance and no other action was taken by NSTec nor requested by the State of Nevada. 

 Table 4-11. Water quality analysis results for NTS sewage lagoon influent waters in 2007 

 Minimum and Maximum Values from Quarterly Samples 

Parameter Units Area 6 Yucca Lake Area 23 Mercury 

BOD5 140.0–426 100–250 

BOD5 Permit Limit 

mg/L 

No Limit No Limit 

BOD5 Mean Daily Load (a) 2.92–7.24 21.16–39.3 (c)

BOD5 Mean Daily Load Limit 

kg/d 

8.66 37.5 

TSS 63.6–410 84.0–268.0 

TSS Permit Limit 

mg/L 

No Limit No Limit 

pH 7.90–8.57 7.47–7.96 

pH Permit Limit 

S.U. (b)

6.0–9.0 6.0–9.0 

(a) BOD5 Mean Daily Load in kilograms per day (kg/d) = (mg/L BOD x liters per day (L/d) average flow x 3.785)/106

(b) Standard units of pH 

(c) The 4th quarter sample exceeded the BOD5 Mean Daily Load limit of 37.5 kg/d 
Radiological and Nonradiological Water Monitoring

4-32 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

4.2.3.2 Annual Analysis of Toxicity of Sewage Lagoon Pond Waters 

A grab sample from the Area 23 Mercury primary lagoon and an equal-volume composite sample from the two Area 6 

Yucca Lake primary lagoons were collected in July. Each grab and composite sample was filtered, the solids 

discarded, and the filtrate analyzed directly, using methods of analysis cited in EPA Publication SW-846 (EPA, 1986). 

Each sample was analyzed for those contaminants listed in Table 4-12. The limits for these contaminants are also 

specified under state permit; they are the same limits specified in 40 CFR 261.24, Table 1, Maximum Concentration of 

Contaminants for the Toxicity Characteristic. Annual monitoring of Area 6 Yucca Lake and Area 23 Mercury sewage 

lagoon waters adjacent to lagoon inlets showed that no contaminants exceeded permit limits (Table 4-12). 

Table 4-12. Water toxicity analysis results for NTS sewage lagoon pond water in 2007 

Contaminant Limit(a) (mg/L) Area 6 Yucca 

(mg/L) 

Area 23 Mercury 

(mg/L) 

Benzene 0.5 ND(b) ND

Carbon Tetrachloride 0.5 ND ND

Chlorobenzene 100 ND ND

Chloroform 6.0 ND ND

Cresol (Total) 200 ND ND

2,4-D 10 ND ND

1,4-Dichlorobenzene 7.5 ND ND

1,2-Dichloroethane 0.5 ND ND

1,1-Dichlorethylene 0.7 ND ND

2,4-Dinitrotoluene 0.13 ND ND

Hexachlorobenzene 0.13 ND ND

Hexachlorobutadiene 0.5 ND ND

Hexachloroethane 3.0 ND ND

Methylethyl Ketone 200 ND ND

Nitrobenzene 2.0 ND ND

Pentachlorophenol 100 ND ND

Pyridine 5.0 ND ND

Trichloroethylene 0.5 ND ND

2,4,5-Trichlorophenol 400 ND ND

2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 2.0 ND ND

Vinyl Chloride 0.2 ND ND

Arsenic 5.0 ND ND 

Barium 100 0.02 0.0258 

Cadmium 1.0 ND ND 

Chromium 5.0 ND ND 

Lead 5.0 ND ND 

Mercury 0.2 ND ND 

Selenium 1.0 ND ND 

Silver 5.0 0.0059 ND 

(a) Source: 40 CFR 261.24, Table 1 

(b) Non-Detect: Results of laboratory analysis were below the lab’s minimum detection limits (MDL)

4.2.3.3 Sewage System Inspections 

The sewage system operators inspect active systems weekly and inactive lagoon systems quarterly. NDEP inspects 

both active and inactive NTS lagoon systems annually. Onsite operators inspect for abnormal conditions, weeds, 

algae blooms, pond color, abnormal odors, dike erosion, burrowing animals, discharge from ponds or lagoons, depth 

of staff gauge, crest level, excess insect population, maintenance/repairs needed, and general conditions. Weekly and 

quarterly inspections were conducted by NSTec throughout the year, and NDEP conducted its annual inspection in 

May 2007. The inspection covered field maintenance programs, lagoons, sites, and access roads functional to 

operations. There were no notable findings from the onsite and NDEP inspections in 2007. 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 5-1

5.0 Direct Radiation Monitoring 

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment, and DOE 

Order 435.1, Radioactive Waste Management, have requirements to protect the public and environment from exposure to 

radiation (see Section 2.3). Energy from radionuclides present in the Nevada Test Site (NTS) environment could 

potentially be deposited inside humans and animals through inhalation and ingestion. Section 3.1 and Section 4.1 

present the results of monitoring radionuclides in air and water on the NTS. Monitoring results are used to estimate 

internal radiation dose to the public via inhalation and ingestion. Energy absorbed from radioactive materials residing 

outside the body results in an external dose. In 2007, external dose was measured under the Direct Radiation 

Monitoring Program of National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec), Environmental Technical Services. This 

section presents the results of monitoring direct ionizing radiation on the NTS from all sources, including natural 

radioactivity from cosmic or terrestrial sources and from man-made radioactive sources. These data are then used to 

document and trend gamma radiation exposure rates on the NTS. 

Direct radiation monitoring is conducted to assess the state of the external radiation environment, detect changes in 

that environment, and measure gamma radiation levels near potential exposure sites. DOE Order 450.1, Environmental 

Protection Program, states that environmental monitoring should be conducted to detect, characterize, and respond to 

releases from DOE activities, assess impacts, and estimate dispersal patterns in the environment. In addition, DOE 

Order 5400.5 states that “it is also an objective that potential exposures to members of the public be as low as is 

reasonably achievable (ALARA).” 

Direct Radiation Monitoring Program Goals

Assess the proportion of dose to the public which comes from background radiation versus NTS operations. 

Measure the potential external dose to a member of the public in order to determine if the total dose (internal and 

external) exceeds 100 millirem per year (mrem/yr) (1 millisievert [mSv]/yr), the dose limit of DOE Order 5400.5. 

Determine if radiation levels from the Radioactive Waste Management Sites (RWMSs) are likely to result in a dose 

exceeding the 25 mrem/yr (0.25 mSv/yr) dose limit to members of the public as specified in DOE M 435.1-1. 

Monitor operational activities involving radioactive material, radiation-generating devices, or accidental releases of 

radioactive material to ensure exposure to members of the public are kept ALARA as stated in DOE Order 5400.5. 

Determine if the absorbed radiation dose (in a unit of measure called a rad [see Glossary, Appendix B]) from 

external radiation exposure to NTS terrestrial plants and aquatic animals is less than 1 rad per day (1 rad/d) (0.01 

gray [Gy]/d), and if the absorbed radiation dose to NTS terrestrial animals is less than 0.1 rad/d (1 milligray 

[mGy]/d) (limits prescribed by DOE Order 5400.5 and DOE Standard DOE-STD-1153-2002). 

Determine the exposure rates through time at various soil contamination areas to fulfill the requirements of DOE 

Order 450.1 to characterize releases in the environment. 

An offsite monitoring program has been established by the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security 

Administration Nevada Site Office to independently monitor direct radiation within communities adjacent to the 

NTS. This independent oversight is provided through the Community Environmental Monitoring Program (CEMP) 

and managed by the Desert Research Institute (DRI). DRI’s 2007 direct radiation monitoring results are presented in 

Sections 6.1.2 and 6.1.3. 

5.1 Measurement of Direct Radiation 

Direct radiation is exposure to electromagnetic (gamma and X-ray) radiation. Electromagnetic radiation is able to 

travel long distances through air and to penetrate living tissue causing ionization within the body tissues. In contrast, 

alpha and beta particles do not travel far in air (a few centimeters for alpha and about 10 meters (m) (33 feet [ft]) for 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

5-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

beta particles). Alpha particles deposit only negligible energy externally; they rarely penetrate the outer dead layer of 

skin. Beta particles are generally absorbed in the immediate layers of skin below the outer layer. 

Direct radiation exposure is usually reported in the unit milliroentgen (mR), which is a measure of exposure in terms of 

numbers of ionizations in air. Generally, the dose in human tissue resulting from an exposure from the most common 

external radionuclides can be approximated by equating a 1 mR exposure with a 1 millirem (mrem) (0.01 millisievert 

[mSv]) dose. 

5.2 Thermoluminescent Dosimetry Surveillance Network Design 

Monitoring is performed on the NTS because some NTS areas have elevated radiation levels resulting from one or 

more of the following: (1) historical weapons testing, (2) current and past radioactive waste management activities, and 

(3) current operations involving radioactive material or radiation-generating devices. A surveillance network of 

thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) sampling locations has been established on the NTS. The objectives and design 

of the network are described in detail in the Routine Radiological Environmental Monitoring Plan (RREMP) (DOE, 2003a). 

TLDs measure ionizing radiation exposure from all sources, including natural and man-made radioactivity. The TLD 

used is the Panasonic UD-814AS, which consists of four elements housed in an air-tight, water-tight, ultraviolet-lightprotected case. A slightly shielded lithium borate element is used to check low-energy radiation levels. The average of 

three calcium sulfate elements is used to measure penetrating gamma radiation. 

A pair of TLDs is placed at 1.0 ± 0.3 m (28 to 51 inches [in.]) above the ground at each monitoring location and is 

exchanged for analysis quarterly. The quarterly analysis of TLDs is performed using automated TLD readers that are 

calibrated and maintained by the NSTec Radiological Control Department (RCD). Reference TLDs are exposed to 

100 mR from a 137Cs radiation source under tightly controlled conditions. These are then read along with TLDs 

collected from the environment to calibrate their response. 

In 2007, there were 109 active environmental TLD locations on the NTS (Figure 5-1). They include the following 

numbers and types of locations: 

• Background (B) – 10 locations where radiation effects from NTS operations are negligible. 

• Environmental 1 (E1) – 41 locations where there is no measurable radioactivity from past operations but which 

are of interest due to either (1) the presence of personnel or the public in the area or (2) the potential for receiving 

radiation exposure from a current operation. 

• Environmental 2 (E2) – 35 locations where there is measurable added radioactivity from past operations and the 

locations are of interest due to (1) the potential for personnel to be in the area and (2) the need to monitor 

exposure trends in the area. Some locations fitting this description are grouped with the WO category below. 

• Waste Operations (WO) – 17 locations in and around the Area 3 RWMS and the Area 5 Radioactive Waste 

Management Complex (RWMC). 

• Control (C) – 5 locations in Building 652 and one location in Building 650 in Mercury. Control TLDs are kept in 

stable environments and are used as a quality check on the TLDs and the analysis process. 

5.2.1 Data Quality 

Quality assurance procedures for TLD monitoring of ambient radiation involve comparing the data from paired 

TLDs, to estimate measurement precision, and reviewing data from the TLDs in the control locations. Five of the six 

control locations are shielded; the sixth is unshielded, but located in Mercury in Building 650. These locations allow 

one to detect and estimate any systematic quarter-to-quarter variation that might be introduced by the measurement 

process itself. Agreement between the results provided by the paired TLDs was very good, with an average relative 

percent difference between measurements of 2.4 percent for 2007. 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 5-3

Figure 5-1. Location of TLDs on the NTS 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

5-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Some amount of systematic quarter-to-quarter variation is typical in the measurement process. In 2007 the first 

quarter results for the Control TLDs were found to be significantly higher than typical, however, as were the first 

quarter results for numerous other locations. This was determined to have been caused by excess exposure in 

Building 650 during a delay between collection and analysis. An adjustment was made for the first-quarter 

measurements for all TLD locations, based on the control location values. After adjustment, the quarter-to-quarter 

coefficient of variation (CV), identical to the relative standard deviation) ranged from 0.3 to 9.7 percent at all locations 

except Gate 100 Truck Parking #1 (see Section 5.3.1). Excluding that location, CVs averaged 2.7 percent in 2007. 

For comparison, CV values for control locations ranged from 1.2 to 10.0 percent in recent years. (CVs at control 

locations tend to be higher than those at environmental locations since the shielding makes the average levels lower.) 

At a programmatic level, Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) protocols, including Data Quality 

Objectives, have been developed and are maintained as essential elements of direct radiation monitoring, as directed 

by the RREMP. The QA/QC requirements established for the monitoring program include the use of sample 

packages to thoroughly document each sampling event, rigorous management of databases, and completion of 

essential training. The RCD maintains certification through the U.S. Department of Energy Laboratory Accreditation 

Program for dosimetry. 

5.2.2 Data Reporting

Direct radiation is reported as exposure per unit time. TLD analysis results are maintained in a database as 

milliroentgen per day (mR/d), calculated by dividing the measured mR exposure per quarter for each TLD by the 

number of days the TLD was exposed at its measurement location in the quarter. For annual reporting purposes, 

these are multiplied by 365. The estimated annual exposure is the average of the four quarterly annualized values; this 

is used to determine compliance with federal annual direct radiation exposure limits. 

5.3 Results 

Estimated annual exposures for all TLD locations are summarized in Table 5-1; summary statistics for the five 

location types are given in Table 5-2. During 2007, the average of the estimated annual exposures at background 

locations was 121 mR; these ranged from 65 to 165 mR over the ten background locations (Table 5-2). A 95 percent 

prediction interval (PI) for annual exposures based on the average of background location values for 2007 is 40.6 to 

201.0 mR (shown as “95% PI from BG” shown in Figures 5-2, 5-3, and 5-4). 

For comparison, the CEMP-estimated annual exposure in Las Vegas, Nevada (at 2,040 ft elevation) was 87 mR during 

2007 (see Table 6-3). Estimated exposures at CEMP locations ranged from 74 mR at Pahrump (2,550 ft elevation) to 

148 mR at Twin Springs (5,055 ft elevation). There is generally an increasing relationship between exposure and 

elevation, with a correlation coefficient around 0.45. For comparison, the NTS background locations with lowest and 

highest estimated exposures are at elevations 3,569 ft and 5,700 ft, respectively. Exposure estimates at all locations 

include the contribution from natural sources. Dose limits prescribed by DOE orders only apply to exposures above 

background levels. 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 5-5

Table 5-1. Annual direct radiation exposure rates measured at TLD locations on the NTS in 2007 

 Estimated Annual Exposure (mR/yr) 

NTS 

Area Location 

Location 

Type(a)

Number of 

Quarters Mean(b) SD(b) Min(b) Median(b) Max(b)

5 3.3 Mi SE of Aggregate B 4 65 4 62 64 71

14 Mid-Valley B 4 147 3 144 148 150 

16 Stake P-3 B 4 121 1 120 121 122 

20 Stake A-112 B 4 165 5 159 166 170 

20 Stake A-118 B 4 160 4 157 160 164 

22 Army #1 Water Well B 4 87 2 85 86 90 

25 Gate 25-4-P B 4 136 1 136 137 137 

25 Gate 510 B 4 130 1 129 130 131 

25 Jackass Flats & A-27 B 4 83 2 83 83 86 

25 Skull Mtn Pass B 4 112 2 110 112 114 

23 Building 650 Dosimetry C 4 62 2 60 61 65

23 Lead Cabinet, 1 C 4 28 2 25 27 31 

23 Lead Cabinet, 2 C 4 27 3 25 27 31 

23 Lead Cabinet, 3 C 4 27 2 26 27 30 

23 Lead Cabinet, 4 C 4 27 2 26 27 30 

23 Lead Cabinet, 5 C 4 27 2 26 27 30 

1 BJY E1 4 122 2 121 122 124

1 Sandbag Storage Hut E1 4 119 1 117 119 120 

1 Stake C-2 E1 4 122 0 122 123 123 

2 Stake M-140 E1 4 138 2 136 138 140 

2 Stake TH-58 E1 4 97 1 96 97 98 

3 LANL Trailers E1 4 128 4 125 127 133 

3 Stake OB-20 E1 4 92 2 89 91 94 

3 Well ER 3-1 E1 2 132 2 130 132 134 

4 Stake TH-41 E1 4 115 2 113 114 118 

4 Stake TH-48 E1 4 124 1 123 124 126 

5 Water Well 5B E1 4 115 4 111 113 120 

6 CP-6 E1 4 74 3 72 73 78 

6 DAF East E1 4 101 3 97 101 103 

6 DAF North E1 4 107 2 105 107 109 

6 DAF South E1 4 142 1 140 142 143 

6 DAF West E1 4 86 3 82 85 89 

6 Decon Facility NW E1 4 135 1 133 135 136 

6 Decon Facility SE E1 4 140 4 136 140 145 

6 Stake OB-11.5 E1 4 135 1 134 135 137 

6 Yucca Compliance E1 4 97 3 92 97 101 

6 Yucca Oil Storage E1 3 105 3 101 106 108 

7 Reitmann Seep E1 2 133 1 132 133 133 

7 Stake H-8 E1 3 132 1 131 133 133 

9 Papoose Lake Road E1 4 92 3 89 92 96 

9 U-9CW South E1 4 108 3 106 108 112 

9 V & G Road Junction E1 3 118 3 116 117 121 

10 Gate 700 South E1 4 137 3 132 137 140 

11 Stake A-21 E1 3 138 3 135 139 141 

12 Upper N Pond E1 4 136 2 134 136 138 

16 3545 Substation E1 4 145 2 142 145 146 

18 Stake A-83 E1 4 150 2 148 150 153 

18 Stake F-11 E1 4 151 3 148 150 155 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

5-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 5-1. Annual direct radiation exposure rates measured at TLD locations on the NTS in 2007 (continued) 

 Estimated Annual Exposure (mR) 

NTS 

Area Location 

Location 

Type(a)

Number of 

Quarters Mean(b) SD(b) Min(b) Median(b) Max(b)

19 Stake P-41 E1 4 165 3 162 164 170 

20 Stake J-41 E1 4 144 2 142 144 146 

23 Gate 100 Truck Parking 1 E1 4 164 96 70 159 268 

23 Gate 100 Truck Parking 2 E1 4 68 6 62 68 76 

23 Mercury Fitness Track E1 4 61 1 60 61 63 

25 Henre E1 4 128 1 127 128 129 

25 NRDS Warehouse E1 4 128 1 127 129 130 

27 Cafeteria E1 4 117 1 115 117 118 

27 JASPER-1 E1 4 117 1 116 117 119 

1 Bunker 1-300 E2 4 124 3 121 124 128 

1 T1 E2 4 290 6 283 291 297 

2 Stake L-9 E2 3 177 6 172 176 183 

2 Stake N-8 E2 4 557 10 548 556 569 

3 Stake A-6.5 E2 4 143 2 141 143 146 

3 T3 E2 4 383 9 371 385 392 

3 T3 West E2 4 373 9 366 370 385 

3 T3A E2 4 431 10 417 433 441 

3 T3B E2 4 471 11 455 475 479 

3 U-3co North E2 4 196 4 192 197 200 

3 U-3co South E2 4 149 1 147 149 149 

4 Stake A-9 E2 4 680 12 668 678 696 

5 Frenchman Lake E2 4 369 19 341 376 384 

7 Bunker 7-300 E2 4 248 4 243 248 251 

7 T7 E2 3 118 1 117 117 119 

8 Baneberry 1 E2 4 391 10 379 391 402 

8 Road 8-02 E2 4 129 1 128 129 131 

8 Stake K-25 E2 4 108 2 106 108 112 

8 Stake M-152 E2 4 169 4 164 169 174 

9 B9A E2 4 137 2 135 136 139 

9 Bunker 9-300 E2 4 129 2 126 129 130 

9 T9B E2 4 556 2 555 555 558 

10 Circle & L Roads E2 4 125 1 123 125 126 

10 Sedan East Visitor Box E2 4 140 1 139 140 142 

10 Sedan West E2 4 247 4 242 247 253 

10 T10 E2 4 272 4 268 273 276 

12 T-Tunnel #2 Pond E2 4 263 6 257 262 272 

12 Upper Haines Lake E2 4 113 2 110 113 115 

15 EPA Farm E2 4 116 1 115 116 117 

18 Johnnie Boy North E2 4 151 2 149 151 152 

20 Palanquin E2 4 237 5 230 237 242 

20 Schooner-1 E2 4 750 25 719 752 776 

20 Schooner-2 E2 4 275 5 270 274 280 

20 Schooner-3 E2 4 147 2 144 147 149 

20 Stake J-31 E2 4 170 2 167 170 172 

3 A3 RWMS Center WO 4 147 1 145 147 148 

3 A3 RWMS East WO 4 139 1 137 139 140 

3 A3 RWMS North WO 4 130 2 128 130 132 

3 A3 RWMS South WO 4 376 15 365 370 397 

3 A3 RWMS West WO 4 131 3 127 132 133 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 5-7

Table 5-1. Annual direct radiation exposure rates measured at TLD locations on the NTS in 2007 (continued)

 Estimated Annual Exposure (mR) 

NTS 

Area Location 

Location 

Type(a)

Number of 

Quarters Mean(b) SD(b) Min(b) Median(b) Max(b)

5 A5 RWMS East Gate WO 4 117 6 110 118 122 

5 A5 RWMS Expansion NE WO 4 149 6 143 149 157 

5 A5 RWMS Expansion NW WO 4 150 4 145 151 154 

5 A5 RWMS NE Corner WO 4 138 9 131 136 151 

5 A5 RWMS NW Corner WO 4 128 2 125 128 130 

5 A5 RWMS South Gate WO 4 112 3 110 111 116 

5 A5 RWMS SW Corner WO 4 130 2 128 130 131 

5 Building 5-31 WO 4 114 5 107 116 118 

5 WEF East WO 4 137 8 131 135 147 

5 WEF North WO 4 138 8 129 139 145 

5 WEF South WO 4 135 2 133 135 137 

5 WEF West WO 3 129 6 124 128 136 

(a) Location types: 

 B: Background locations 

 C: Control locations 

 E1: Environmental locations with exposure rates near background but monitored for potential for increased 

 exposure rates due to NTS operations 

 E2: Environmental locations with measurable radioactivity from past operations, excluding those designated WO 

 WO: Locations in or near waste operations 

(b) Mean, standard deviation (SD), minimum, median, and maximum values from quarterly estimates. In general, each quarterly estimate is 

the average of two TLD readings per location 

 Table 5-2. Summary statistics for 2007 annual direct radiation exposure by TLD location type 

 Estimated Annual Exposure (mR) 

Location Type 

Number of 

Locations Mean(a) SD(a) Min(a) Median(a) Max(a)

Background (B) 10 121 34 65 126 165 

Control (C) 6 33 14 27 27 62 

Environmental 1 (E1) 41 121 24 61 124 165 

Environmental 2 (E2) 35 267 170 108 196 750 

Waste Operations (WO) 17 147 60 112 135 376 

 (a) Mean, standard deviation (SD), minimum, median, and maximum values from annual estimated exposures 

5.3.1 Potential Exposure to the Public along the NTS Boundary 

Most of the NTS is not accessible to the public, as only the southern portion of the NTS boundary borders public 

land. Therefore, the only place the public has potential for exposure to direct radiation from the NTS is along the 

southern boundary. 

Gate 100 is the primary entrance point to the NTS. The outer parking areas are accessible to the public. Trucks 

hauling radioactive materials, primarily low-level radioactive waste being shipped for disposal in the RWMSs, often 

park outside Gate 100 while waiting for entry to the NTS. Two TLD locations were established in October 2003 to 

monitor this truck parking area. The TLD on the north end of the parking area (Gate 100 Truck Parking 2) had an 

estimated annual exposure of 68 mR, with quarterly estimates varying between 62 and 76 mR, all within the range of 

background exposures observed at the NTS. 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

5-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

The TLD location on the west side of the parking area (Gate 100 Truck Parking 1) had exposure levels at background 

levels through the first two quarters of 2007 but increased to annualized exposures of 268 and 221 mR in the third 

and fourth quarters, respectively. It is likely that waste shipments entering the NTS are responsible for these changes 

as they are similar to values measured during 2005 (DOE, 2006a). Even with the increased exposures measured in the 

second half of 2007, the annual estimated exposure at this location was 164 mR which is still within the range of 

background values measured on the NTS. 

While the public has access only to the southern portions of the NTS borders, other people may have access to other 

boundaries of the NTS. The great majority of the NTS is bounded by the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR). 

Military or other personnel on the NTTR who are not classified as radiation workers would also be subject to the 

100 mrem/yr public dose limit. Nuclear tests on the NTTR (Double Tracks and Project 57) consisted of experiments 

where weapons were conventionally exploded without going critical (safety experiments). These areas, therefore, only 

have a distribution of primarily alpha-emitting radionuclides that do not significantly contribute to external dose. 

The only place a radiological boundary extends beyond the NTS is in the Frenchman Lake region of Area 5 along the 

southeast boundary of the NTS. This region was a location of atmospheric weapons testing in the 1950s. A TLD 

location was established in July 2003 near the NTS boundary in the Frenchman Lake playa. The estimated annual 

exposure at Frenchman Lake during 2007 was 369 mR (down from 379 mR in 2006, 391 mR in 2005, and 411 in 

2004). The resulting above-background dose of approximately 204 to 304 mrem, depending on which background 

value is used, would exceed the 100 mrem dose limit to a person residing year-round at this location; however, there 

are no living quarters or full-time workers in this vicinity. 

5.3.2 Exposure Rates at RWMSs 

The Radioactive Waste Management Manual, DOE M 435.1-1 (DOE, 2001b), states that low-level waste disposal facilities 

shall be operated, maintained, and closed so that a reasonable expectation exists that annual dose to members of the 

public shall not exceed 25 mrem. Given that the RWMSs are located well within the NTS boundaries, no members of 

the public could access these areas for significant periods of time. Exposures are still measured by TLDs located at 

the RWMSs to show the potential dose to a hypothetical person residing year-round at each RWMS. 

The Area 3 RWMS is located in Yucca Flat. Between 1952 and 1972, 60 nuclear weapons tests were conducted within 

400 m of the Area 3 RWMS boundary. Fourteen of these tests were atmospheric tests which left radionuclidecontaminated surface soil and, therefore, elevated radiation exposures across the area. Waste pits in the Area 3 RWMS 

are subsidence craters from seven subsurface tests that are being filled with low-level radioactive waste. These are 

then covered with clean soil, resulting in lower exposures inside the Area 3 RWMS compared with the average 

exposures at the fence line or in Area 3 outside the fence line. 

Annual exposures during 2007 in and around the Area 3 RWMS are shown in Figure 5-2. The exposures measured 

inside Area 3 RWMS and three of four measurements at the boundary were within the range of background 

exposures. The estimated exposure above the range of NTS background levels at one location on the RWMS 

boundary is associated with historic aboveground nuclear weapon test locations. Given this, current Area 3 RWMS 

operations would have contributed negligible external exposure to a hypothetical person residing at the Area 3 RWMS 

boundary during 2007. 

The Area 5 RWMC, consisting of the Area 5 RWMS along with ancillary support facilities, is located in the northern 

portion of Frenchman Flat. Twenty-five nuclear weapons tests were conducted within 6.3 kilometers (km) (3.9 miles 

[mi]) of the Area 5 RWMC between 1951 and 1971. Fifteen of these were atmospheric tests and, of the remaining 

ten, nine released radioactivity to the surface which contribute to exposures in the area. No nuclear weapons testing 

occurred within the boundaries of the Area 5 RWMC itself. During 2007, estimated annual exposures at Area 5 

RWMC TLD locations were within the range of exposures measured at NTS background locations (Figure 5-3). The 

one exposure rate measured outside the RWMC in Area 5 that was higher than background levels was within 0.5 km 

(0.3 mi) of six atmospheric tests in Frenchman Lake Playa. 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 5-9

Area 3 RWMS Estimated Annual Exposures

0

200

400

600

800

 All B Inside RWMS Outside__

 Locations RWMS Boundary RWMS__

mR

B locations

E1 locations

E2 locations

WO locations

95% PI from BG 

Figure 5-2. 2007 annual exposure rates in and around Area 3 RWMS and at background locations 

Area 5 RWMC Estimated Annual Exposures

0

200

400

600

800

 All B RWMC Outside_

 Locations Boundary RWMC__

mR

B locations

E1 locations

E2 locations

WO locations

95% PI from BG

Figure 5-3. 2007 annual exposure rates around Area 5 RWMS and at background locations 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

5-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

5.3.3 Exposures from NTS Operational Activities 

During 2007, there were 41 TLDs in locations where there is negligible radioactivity from past operations but where 

monitoring is of interest due either to the presence of personnel or the public in the area or due to the potential for 

receiving radiation exposure from current operations (Environmental 1 locations). The estimated mean annual 

exposure at these locations was 121 mR, the same as the mean estimated annual exposure at background locations 

(see Table 5-2). Overall, annual exposures were not different between B (background) and E1 locations (Figure 5-4); 

the estimated annual exposures at all E1 locations were within the background-based PIs. 

Estimated Annual Exposures

by Location Type

0

200

400

600

800

CEMP B C E1 E2 WO 

Location Type

mR

95% PI from BG

Figure 5-4. 2007 annual exposure rates on the NTS by location type and off the NTS (CEMP stations) 

5.3.4 Exposure to NTS Plants and Animals 

The TLD location with the highest annual exposure (Schooner-1) had its highest measured exposure rate of 

2.13 mR/d during the second quarter (776 mR/yr, see Table 5-1). At an elevation near the ground (e.g., 3 centimeters 

[1.2 in.]), the exposure would be about four times higher than at the 1-m (3.3-ft) height where TLDs are placed. 

Therefore, the daily exposure rate near the ground surface at the Schooner-1 location would be less than 10 mR/d. 

This would result in an external dose that is approximately 10 percent of the most stringent total dose rate to biota, 

which is the 0.1 rad/d (approximately 100 mR/d) limit to terrestrial animals mandated by DOE-STD-1153-2002. 

Hence, doses to plants and animals from external radiation exposure at NTS monitoring locations are low compared 

with the mandated dose limit. 

5.3.5 Exposure Rate Patterns in the Environment over Time 

DOE Order 450.1 states that environmental monitoring should be conducted to characterize releases from DOE 

activities. Continued monitoring of exposures at locations of past releases on the NTS helps to do this. Small 

quarter-to-quarter changes are normally seen in exposure rates from all locations. In 2007, the inter-quarter CVs 

averaged 2.7 percent (excluding Gate 100 Truck Parking #1, and using adjusted first quarter data). The control 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 5-11

locations tended to have larger quarter-to-quarter relative differences, which suggests that systematic analytical 

variability is a major, but not the only, contributing factor to the observed quarter-to-quarter variation. 

Over all locations with at least 10-year data histories, the C and B locations showed no net change. The E1 locations 

show an average net decrease of 0.4 percent per year; the E2 locations decreased 2.0 percent per year on average, and 

the WO locations decreased 0.6 percent per year on average. Those E2 and WO locations whose 2007 estimated 

exposures were above the background-based prediction limits decreased 3.8 percent per year on average. 

Long-term trends are displayed in Figure 5-5 by location type for locations that have been monitored for at least ten 

years. The Schooner-1 TLD location, which has the highest exposure of any current NTS location, is not included in 

this figure because it was established in 2003. The two highest exposures shown in Figure 5-5, at Stake A-9 in Area 4 

and Stake N-8 in Area 2, continue to decrease by 4.1 and 5.0 percent per year, respectively; these correspond to halflives of about 17 and 14 years. The next highest exposures shown in Figure 5-5 are at the WO location RWMS South 

in Area 3; these are decreasing an average 3.7 percent per year. The observed decreases are due to a combination of 

natural radioactive decay and the dispersal of radionuclides in the environment. 

Estimated Annual Exposures

Locations With at Least 10-Year Histories by 2007

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

1988 1992 1996 2000 2004 2008

Year

mR

Control

Background

Environmental 1

Environmental 2

Waste Operations

A4 Stake A-9

A2 Stake N-8

A3 RWMS S

Figure 5-5. Trend in direct radiation exposure measured at TLD locations 

5.4 Environmental Impact 

Direct radiation exposure to the public from NTS operations in 2007 was negligible. Radionuclides historically 

released to the environment on the NTS have resulted in localized elevated exposures. These areas of elevated 

exposure are not open to the public, nor do personnel work in these areas full-time. Overall exposures at the RWMSs 

appear to be generally lower inside or at the boundary compared with those outside the RWMSs. This is likely due to 

the presence of radionuclides released from historical testing distributed throughout the area around the RWMSs 

compared with the clean soil used inside the RWMSs to cap waste pits. The external dose to plants and animals at the 

location with the highest measured exposure was a small fraction of the dose limit to biota; hence no detrimental 

effects to biota from external radiation exposure are expected at the NTS. 
Direct Radiation Monitoring

5-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 6-1 

6.0 Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and 

Water 

Community oversight for the Nevada Test Site (NTS) is provided through the Community Environmental 

Monitoring Program (CEMP) whose mission is to monitor and communicate environmental data that are relevant to 

the safety and well-being of participating communities and their surrounding areas. Previously, the CEMP network 

functioned as a first line of offsite detection of potential radiation releases from underground nuclear tests at the NTS, 

and it can be outfitted to fulfill this role again should underground testing resume. It currently exists as a nonregulatory public informational and outreach program, although quarterly reporting of monitoring data is furnished to 

the Nevada Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region IX as a 

supplemental requirement to NTS onsite monitoring. The CEMP is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, 

National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO), and is administered and operated by the 

Desert Research Institute (DRI) of the Nevada System of Higher Education. 

Monitored and collected data include, but are not necessarily limited to, background and airborne radiation data, 

meteorological data, and tritium concentrations in community and ranch drinking water. Network stations, located in 

Nevada, Utah, and California, are managed by local citizens, many of them high school science teachers, whose 

routine tasks are to ensure equipment is operating normally and collect air filters and route them to the DRI for 

analysis. These Community Environmental Monitors (CEMs) are also available to discuss the monitoring results with 

the public and to speak to community and school groups. DRI’s responsibilities include maintaining the physical 

monitoring network through monthly visitations by environmental radiation monitoring specialists, who also participate in training and interfacing with CEMs and interacting with other local community members and organizations to 

provide information related to the monitoring data. DRI also provides public access to the monitoring data through 

maintenance of a project Web site at <http://www.cemp.dri.edu/>. A detailed informational background of the 

CEMP can be found at <http://www.cemp.dri.edu/cemp/moreinfo.html> along with more detailed descriptions of 

the various types of sensors found at the stations and on outreach activities conducted by the CEMP. 

6.1 Offsite Air Monitoring 

During 2007, 29 CEMP stations managed by DRI comprised the Air Surveillance Network (ASN) (Figure 6-1). 

During the past year, the temporary station near Shoshone was moved to a permanent location near the Tecopa, 

California, U.S. Post Office (November 2007). The ASN stations include various equipment as described below. The 

Mesquite, Nevada CEMP station is shown in Figure 6-2.

CEMP Low-Volume Air Sampling Network – During 2007, the CEMP ASN included continuously operating lowvolume particulate air samplers located at 27 of the 29 CEMP station locations. No low-volume air samplers were 

located at Medlin’s Ranch or Warm Springs Summit, Nevada, during 2007. Duplicate air samples were collected from 

up to three ASN stations each week. The duplicate samplers are operated at randomly selected stations for three 

months (one calendar quarter) before being moved to a new location. 

Glass-fiber filters from the low-volume particulate samplers are collected by the CEMs, mailed to DRI, then prepared 

and forwarded to an independent laboratory to be analyzed for gross alpha and gross beta activity. Samples are held 

for a minimum of seven days after collection to allow for the decay of naturally occurring radon progeny. Upon 

completion of the gross alpha/beta analyses, the filters are returned to DRI to be composited on a quarterly basis for 

gamma spectroscopy analysis. 
6-2

 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 Figure 6-1. 2007 CEMP Air Surveillance Network 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 6-3 

Figure 6-2. CEMP station at Mesquite, Nevada 

CEMP Thermoluminescent Dosimetry Network – Thermoluminescent dosimetry is another of the essential 

components of environmental radiological assessments. This is used to determine both individual and population 

external exposure to ambient radiation from natural and artificial sources. In 2007, this network consisted of fixed 

environmental thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) at 28 of the 29 CEMP stations (see Figure 6-1). A TLD is not 

currently deployed at Warm Springs Summit due to limited access during the winter months. The TLD used was a 

Panasonic UD-814AS. Within the TLD, a slightly shielded lithium borate element is used to check low-energy 

radiation levels while three calcium sulfate elements are used to measure penetrating gamma radiation. For quality 

assurance (QA) purposes, duplicate TLDs are deployed at three randomly selected environmental stations. An 

average daily exposure rate was calculated for each quarterly exposure period. The average of the quarterly values was 

multiplied by 365.25 days to obtain the total annual exposure for each station. 

CEMP Pressurized Ion Chamber (PIC) Network – The PIC detector measures gamma radiation exposure rates, 

and because of its sensitivity may detect low-level exposures that go undetected by other monitoring methods. PICs 

are in place at all 29 stations in the CEMP network (see Figure 6-1). The primary function of the PIC network is to 

detect changes in ambient gamma radiation due to human activities. In the absence of such activities, ambient gamma 

radiation rates vary naturally among locations reflecting differences in altitude (cosmic radiation), radioactivity in the 

soil (terrestrial radiation), and slight variations at a single location due to weather patterns. Because a full suite of 

meteorological data is recorded at each CEMP station, variations in PIC readings caused by weather events such as 

precipitation or changes in barometric pressure are more readily identified. These variations can be easily viewed by 

selecting the Time Series Graph link from the CEMP home page, < http://www.cemp.dri.edu/>, after selecting a 

desired station and then selecting the desired variables. 

CEMP Meteorological (MET) Network – Because changing weather conditions can have a significant effect on 

measurable levels of background radiation, meteorological instrumentation is in place at each of the 29 CEMP 

stations. The MET network includes sensors that measure air temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, solar 

radiation, barometric pressure, precipitation, and soil temperature and moisture data. All of these data can be 

observed real-time at the onsite station display, and archived data are accessible by accessing the CEMP home page at 

<http://www.cemp.dri.edu/>. 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

6-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

6.1.1 Air Particulate Sampling Results 

A sample of airborne particulates from a CEMP ASN station is collected by drawing air through a 5-centimeter 

(2-inch) diameter glass-fiber filter at a constant flow rate of 86.6 liters per minute (2 cubic feet [ft3] per minute) at 

standard temperature and pressure. The actual flow rate and volume are measured and recorded with an in-line airflow calibrator. The particulate filter is mounted in a filter holder that faces downward at a height of 1.5 meters (m) 

(5 feet [ft]) above the ground. The total actual volume collected ranges from approximately 538 to 793 cubic meters 

[m3] (19,000 to 28,000 ft3), depending on the elevation of the station and changes in air temperature and/or pressure. 

6.1.1.1 Gross Alpha and Gross Beta 

Analyses of gross alpha and beta in airborne particulate samples are used to screen for long-lived radionuclides in the 

air. The mean annual gross alpha activity across all sample locations was 1.49 ± 0.45 x 10-15 microcuries per milliliter 

(μCi/mL) (5.51 ± 1.67 x 10-5 Becquerels [Bq]/m3) (Table 6-1). Most of the results for 2007 exceeded the analytical 

minimum detectable concentration (MDC) (see Glossary, Appendix B) and, overall, are similar to results from 

previous years. Figure 6-3 shows the long-term maximum, mean, and minimum alpha trend for the CEMP stations as 

a whole. 

Table 6-1. Gross alpha results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007 

Concentration (x 10-15 μCi/mL [3.7 x 10-5 Bq/m3]) 

Sampling Location 

Number 

of 

Samples Mean Standard 

Deviation Minimum Maximum 

Alamo 52 2.01 0.91 0.31 5.08 

Amargosa Valley 51 1.33 0.44 0.57 2.45 

Beatty 51 1.67 0.97 0.32 4.50 

Boulder City 52 2.62 1.42 0.78 5.23 

Caliente 52 1.93 0.72 0.50 3.85 

Cedar City 52 1.11 0.45 0.49 2.71 

Delta 52 1.23 0.57 0.45 2.87 

Duckwater 47 1.12 0.52 0.10 3.40 

Ely 49 1.14 0.47 0.49 2.25 

Garden Valley 52 1.17 0.32 0.62 1.92 

Goldfield 52 1.21 0.52 0.25 2.51 

Henderson 50 1.41 0.56 0.43 3.86 

Indian Springs 48 1.15 0.48 0.47 2.81 

Las Vegas 52 2.75 0.90 0.75 5.65 

Mesquite 48 1.67 0.86 0.42 5.26 

Milford 52 1.37 0.67 0.34 3.35 

Nyala Ranch 52 0.98 0.40 0.13 2.24 

Overton 52 1.65 0.73 0.32 3.95 

Pahrump 50 1.46 0.56 0.41 3.04 

Pioche 52 1.21 0.61 0.10 3.33 

Rachel 50 1.54 0.78 0.51 3.87 

Sarcobatus Flats 52 2.07 1.26 0.43 6.57 

Stone Cabin Ranch 52 1.02 0.35 0.23 1.93 

St. George 52 1.39 0.61 0.53 3.55 

Tecopa 43 1.45 0.94 0.29 6.60 

Tonopah 52 1.30 0.48 0.50 2.70 

Twin Springs 52 1.16 0.40 0.38 2.29 

Network Mean = 1.49 ± 0.45 x 10-15 μCi/mL 

Mean MDC = 0.47 x 10-15 μCi/mL Standard Error of Mean MDC = 0.08 x 10-15 μCi/mL 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 6-5 

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

x 10-15 μCi/mL

Max

Mean

Min

Figure 6-3. Historical trend for gross alpha analysis for all CEMP stations 

The mean annual gross beta activity across all sample locations was 2.30 ± 0.22 x 10-14 μCi/mL 

(8.51 ± 0.81 x 10-4 Bq/m3) (Table 6-2). Most of these results also exceeded the MDC, and are similar to previous 

years’ data. Figure 6-4 shows the long-term maximum, mean, and minimum beta trend for the CEMP stations as a 

whole. 

Table 6-2. Gross beta results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007 

Concentration (x 10-14 μCi/mL [3.7 x 10-4 Bq/m3]) 

Sampling Location 

Number of 

Samples Mean 

Standard 

Deviation Minimum Maximum 

Alamo 52 2.20 0.46 1.05 3.46 

Amargosa Valley 51 2.32 0.87 1.07 3.19 

Beatty 51 2.35 0.56 1.03 3.49 

Boulder City 52 2.63 0.80 1.15 5.65 

Caliente 52 2.35 0.59 1.12 3.73 

Cedar City 52 2.08 0.50 1.02 3.34 

Delta 52 2.52 1.15 1.15 6.88 

Duckwater 47 2.06 0.49 1.23 3.63 

Ely 49 2.08 0.52 0.73 3.06 

Garden Valley 52 2.17 0.46 1.36 3.71 

Goldfield 52 2.05 0.52 0.80 3.21 

Henderson 50 2.32 0.67 1.13 4.47 

Indian Springs 48 2.17 0.51 1.34 3.50 

Las Vegas 52 2.62 0.67 1.35 4.57 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

6-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 Table 6-2. Gross beta results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007 (continued) 

Concentration (x 10-14 μCi/mL [3.7 x 10-4 Bq/m3]) 

Sampling Location 

Number of 

Samples Mean 

Standard 

Deviation Minimum Maximum 

Mesquite 48 2.66 0.86 1.39 5.27 

Milford 52 2.61 0.96 1.28 5.60 

Nyala Ranch 52 1.95 0.53 1.08 3.48 

Overton 52 2.54 0.66 1.33 4.89 

Pahrump 50 2.28 0.50 1.30 3.28 

Pioche 52 2.05 0.58 1.04 3.24 

Rachel 50 2.31 0.58 1.11 3.39 

Sarcobatus Flats 52 2.38 0.62 1.22 4.13 

Stone Cabin 52 2.12 0.44 1.21 2.87 

St. George 52 2.58 0.76 1.56 4.49 

Tecopa/Shoshone 43 2.47 0.55 1.27 4.15 

Tonopah 52 2.02 0.50 1.05 3.42 

Twin Springs 52 2.23 0.64 1.18 3.92 

Network Mean = 2.30 ± 0.22 x 10-14 μCi/mL 

Mean MDC = 0.11 x 10-14 μCi/mL Standard Error of Mean MDC = 0.02 x 10-14 μCi/mL 

Figure 6-4. Historical trend for gross beta analysis for all CEMP stations 

The overall gross alpha results show a generally increasing trend from 1997 to 2001 before slightly trending downward 

the last six years. Likewise, the gross beta results show a similar trend beginning in 1998. These trends are also 

reflected by most of the stations on an individual basis. This trend is most likely explained as being a result of 

persistent drought conditions throughout the southwest and Great Basin states. Drought in these regions has existed 

to varying degrees since 1996. These dry conditions could be directly responsible for an increase in suspended air 

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

x 10-14 μCi/mL

Max

Mean

Min
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 6-7 

particles collected by the air-sampling network. The apparent spikes in the maximum trend lines for gross alpha and 

beta are the result of a single analysis for that year. These analyses occurred prior to the CEMP being directed by 

DRI, so specific information is not available. 

6.1.1.2 Gamma Spectroscopy 

Gamma spectroscopy analysis was performed on all samples from the low-volume air-sampling network. The filters 

were composited by station on a quarterly basis after gross alpha/beta analysis. As in previous years, all samples were 

gamma-spectrum negligible with respect to man-made radionuclides (i.e., gamma-emitting radionuclides were not 

detected). In most of the samples, naturally occurring 7Be was detected above the analytical MDC. This radionuclide 

is produced by cosmic ray interaction with nitrogen in the atmosphere. The mean annual activity for 7Be for the 

sampling network was 84.1 ± 12.9 x 10-15 μCi/mL. 

6.1.2 TLD Results 

TLDs measure ionizing radiation from all sources, including natural radioactivity from cosmic or terrestrial sources 

and from man-made radioactive sources. The TLDs are mounted in a plexiglass holder approximately 1 m above the 

ground, and are exchanged quarterly. TLD results are not presented for Warm Springs Summit at this time since its 

access is limited in the winter months. This does not allow for a proper quarterly change of the TLD as required. 

The total annual exposure for 2007 ranged from 74 milliroentgens (mR) (0.74 millisieverts [mSv]) at Pahrump, 

Nevada, to 148 mR (1.48 mSv) at Twin Springs, Nevada, with a mean annual exposure of 111 mR (1.11 mSv) for all 

operating locations. Results are summarized in Table 6-3 and are consistent with previous years’ data. Figure 6-5 

shows the long-term trend for the CEMP stations as a whole. 

Table 6-3. TLD monitoring results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007 

Sampling Daily Exposure (mR) 

Location 

Number of 

Days Mean Minimum Maximum 

Total Annual 

Exposure (mR) 

Alamo 371 0.30 0.23 0.37 109 

Amargosa Valley 364 0.28 0.25 0.30 102 

Beatty 371 0.37 0.34 0.41 137 

Boulder City 377 0.27 0.24 0.30 97 

Caliente 280 0.32 0.31 0.33 118 

Cedar City 371 0.26 0.25 0.29 94 

Delta 371 0.25 0.21 0.29 92 

Duckwater 357 0.30 0.28 0.33 110 

Ely 370 0.26 0.22 0.29 93 

Garden Valley 363 0.40 0.34 0.45 145 

Goldfield 371 0.31 0.28 0.33 113 

Henderson 377 0.30 0.29 0.31 110 

Indian Springs 364 0.27 0.24 0.30 100 

Las Vegas 295 0.24 0.23 0.25 87 

Medlin's Ranch 364 0.35 0.32 0.38 127 

Mesquite 378 0.26 0.25 0.27 97 

Milford 371 0.37 0.35 0.40 136 

Nyala Ranch 364 0.29 0.25 0.33 106 

Overton 378 0.23 0.21 0.24 82 

Pahrump 364 0.20 0.18 0.23 74 

Pioche 371 0.28 0.27 0.31 103 

Rachel 371 0.34 0.29 0.37 123 

Sarcobatus Flats 371 0.39 0.35 0.43 143 

Stone Cabin Ranch 365 0.36 0.33 0.39 131 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

6-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 6-3. TLD monitoring results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007 (continued) 

Sampling Daily Exposure (mR) 

Location 

Number of 

Days Mean Minimum Maximum 

Total Annual 

Exposure (mR) 

St. George 372 0.23 0.19 0.26 83 

Tecopa 364 0.31 0.27 0.35 113 

Tonopah 371 0.34 0.32 0.38 125 

Twin Springs 365 0.40 0.36 0.46 148 

Overall Annual Mean = 111 mR

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

200

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

mR/yr

Max

Mean

Min

Figure 6-5. Historical trend for TLD analysis for all CEMP stations 

As with the gross alpha and beta results, the TLD data also shows a generally increasing trend from 1997 to 2002 

before showing a slight decrease the last five years. This again may be consistent with drought conditions observed in 

the regions around the monitoring network. As the soil becomes drier due to lack of precipitation, the naturally 

occurring radionuclides may more easily escape into the atmosphere as part of the increased suspended particle load. 

This could result in an increase in natural radioactivity detected by the TLD, similar to the gross alpha and beta 

results. 

6.1.3 PIC Results 

The PIC data presented in this section are based on daily averages of gamma exposure rates from each station. 

Table 6-4 contains the maximum, minimum, and standard deviation of daily averages (in microroentgens per hour 

[μR/hr]) for the periods during 2007 when telemetry data were available. It also shows the average gamma exposure 

rate for each station during the year (in μR/hr) as well as the total annual exposure (in milliroentgens per year 

[mR/yr]). The exposure rate ranged from 72.40 mR/yr (0.72 mSv) in Pahrump to 175.55 mR/yr (1.76 mSv) in Warm 

Springs Summit, Nevada. Background levels of environmental gamma exposure rates in the United States (from 

combined effects of terrestrial and cosmic sources) vary between 49 and 247 mR/yr (BEIR III, 1980). Averages for 

selected regions of the United States were compiled by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and are shown in 

Table 6-5. The annual exposure levels observed at the CEMP stations in 2007 are well within these United States 

background levels. 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 6-9 

 Table 6-4. PIC monitoring results for the CEMP offsite ASN in 2007 

Daily Average Gamma Exposure Rate (μR/hr) 

Sampling Location Mean 

Standard 

Deviation Minimum Maximum 

Annual 

Exposure 

(mR/yr) 

Alamo 13.69 0.27 12.69 14.69 119.92 

Amargosa Valley 12.45 0.16 11.81 13.09 109.06 

Beatty 16.89 0.22 16.03 17.75 147.96 

Boulder City 15.43 0.14 14.76 16.10 135.17 

Caliente 16.31 0.33 15.26 17.35 142.83 

Cedar City 11.01 0.28 10.09 11.92 96.40 

Delta 11.69 0.32 10.61 12.76 102.36 

Duckwater 11.91 1.00 13.29 17.03 104.29 

Ely 11.88 0.66 9.89 13.86 104.03 

Garden Valley 18.58 0.43 17.44 19.72 162.76 

Goldfield 15.28 0.36 14.39 16.16 133.81 

Henderson 15.79 0.18 14.66 16.91 138.28 

Indian Springs 11.54 0.22 10.94 12.14 101.09 

Las Vegas 10.52 0.12 10.09 10.95 92.16 

Medlin's Ranch 17.17 0.38 15.93 18.40 150.37 

Mesquite 12.00 0.16 11.25 12.75 105.12 

Milford 19.16 1.68 16.17 22.14 167.80 

Nyala Ranch 13.54 0.50 12.20 14.88 118.61 

Overton 10.55 0.21 9. 50 11.59 92.37 

Pahrump 8.27 0.14 7.84 8.69 72.40 

Pioche 14.08 0. 33 12.69 15.47 123.34 

Rachel 15.59 0.28 14.66 16.51 136.52 

Sarcobatus Flats 17.47 0.27 16.31 18.62 152.99 

Stone Cabin Ranch 17.64 0.41 16.29 18.99 154.53 

St. George 9. 22 0. 19 8.56 9.87 80.72 

Tecopa/Shoshone 14.83 0.21 14.16 15.49 129.87 

Tonopah 16.27 0.27 15.52 17.02 142.53 

Twin Springs 19.45 0.47 17.89 21.00 170.34 

Warm Springs Summit 20.04 0.40 19.01 21.07 175.55 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

6-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 

Source: <http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/cemp/Radiation.html.> “Radiation in Perspective,” August 1990 (Access Date: 3/31/2007) 

6.1.4 Environmental Impact 

Results of analyses conducted on data obtained from the CEMP network of low-volume particulate air samplers, 

TLDs, and PICs showed no measurable evidence at CEMP station locations of offsite impact from radionuclides 

originating on the NTS. Activity observed in gross alpha and beta analyses of low-volume air sampler filters was 

consistent with previous years’ results and are within the range of activity found in other communities of the 

United States which are not adjacent to man-made radiation sources. Also, no man-made gamma-emitting 

radionuclides were detected. Likewise, TLD and PIC results remained consistent with previous years’ background 

levels and are well within average background levels observed in other parts of the United States (see Table 6-5). 

With two exceptions, occasional elevated gamma readings (10–50 percent above normal average background) in 2007 

were always associated with precipitation events and/or low barometric pressure. Low barometric pressure can result 

in the release of naturally occurring radon and its daughter products from the surrounding soil and rock substrates. 

Precipitation events can result in the “rainout” of globally distributed radionuclides occurring as airborne particulates 

in the upper atmosphere. Figure 6-6, generated from the CEMP Web site, illustrates an example of this phenomenon. 

Figure 6-6. The effect of meteorological phenomena on background gamma readings 

City Radiation (mR/yr) 

Denver, CO 164.6 

Tampa, FL 63.7 

Portland, OR 86.7 

Los Angeles, CA 73.6 

St. Louis, MO 87.9 

Rochester, NY 88.1 

Wheeling, WV 111.9 

Richmond, VA 64.1 

New Orleans, LA 63.7 

Fort Worth, TX 68.7 

Table 6-5. Average natural background radiation for selected U.S. cities (excluding radon) 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 6-11 

The first exception included anomalous gamma readings at the Milford, Utah CEMP station occurring between July 5 

and July 14, 2007. During this time, periodic gamma readings averaging between four and seven times normal 

background were observed. An investigation determined that the anomalous gamma readings were a result of 

malfunction of the pressurized ion chamber at the site. Detailed reports and presentations of these findings are 

available via links from the CEMP Web site home page at http://www.cemp.dri.edu. 

The second exception involved elevated gamma readings at the Henderson, Nevada CEMP station between approximately 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the evening of November 21, 2007. During this time, gamma readings registered 

approximately three and a half times normal background. Examination of the collected data on the CEMP Web site 

indicated an abrupt rise in average gamma readings around 7:00 p.m. from a norm of approximately 15 μR/hr to 

about 51 μR/hr, which then remained stable at the higher value for a period of approximately one and a half hours 

until around 8:30 p.m., after which time the readings abruptly returned to normal. Analysis of the collected data 

indicated it is unlikely that the elevated gamma readings were the result of an equipment malfunction. Based on 

analysis of the signature of the collected PIC data, the conclusion was that the readings represented measurement of a 

radiological source in close proximity to the PIC for the period in question. The PIC signature is not indicative of the 

passage of any sort of airborne plume, which would be more bell-shaped in passage and subsequent decay, but is 

more likely the result of a source being placed on or near the PIC for the period in question and then removed. 

Further investigation was unable to determine the origin or nature of this source, and subsequent analysis of air filter 

samples obtained from the station for the corresponding time period did not indicate any energy levels or 

radionuclides inconsistent with normal background at the site.

6.2 Offsite Surface and Groundwater Monitoring 

During 2007, DRI was tasked by NNSA/NSO to provide independent verification of the tritium activity within some 

of the offsite groundwater wells, surface waters, and springs used for water supplies in areas surrounding the NTS. 

Samples collected by DRI personnel provide, in some cases, a direct comparison to the results obtained by National 

Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec), under the Routine Radiological Environmental Monitoring Plan (RREMP) (see Section 

4.1). 

The sole analyte for this project was tritium. Tritium is one of the most abundant radionuclides generated by an 

underground nuclear test and, since it is a constituent of the water molecule itself, it is also one of the most mobile. 

6.2.1 Sample Locations and Methods 

During the period of June 26 to September 11, 2007, DRI sampled 4 springs, 21 wells, and 3 surface water bodies 

either directly or through municipal water supply systems. Sample locations were selected based upon input from the 

CEMs and local ranch owners participating in the CEMP project. The Duckwater, Nevada, water supply well was 

sampled for the first time in 2007. All wells were sampled utilizing downhole submersible pumps. Samples from 

surface water bodies were obtained via discharge from a faucet or valve connected to the water supply system that 

pumps that body of water. Springs were sampled by hand along surface drainage that emanates from the spring 

orifice, or from the water supply system connected to the spring discharge. Each well was pumped a minimum of 

5 to 15 minutes prior to sampling to purge water from the pump tubing and well annulus. This process ensured that 

the resultant sample was representative of local groundwater. Table 6-6 lists all of the sample points, their locations, 

the date they were sampled, and the sampling method. The locations of the sample points are shown in Figure 6-7.

6.2.2 Procedures and Quality Assurance 

DRI utilized several methods to ensure that radiological results reported herein conform to current QA protocols 

(see Section 19.0 for a detailed description of the CEMP QA program). This was achieved through the use of 

standard operating procedures, field QA samples, and laboratory QA procedures. DRI’s standard operating 

procedures are detailed procedures that describe the method and materials, using step-by-step instructions, which are 

required to collect field water quality samples and protect the samples from tampering and environmental conditions 

that may alter their chemistry. 
 

6-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 200 7

Table 6-6. CEMP water monitoring locations sampled in 2007 

Monitoring Location Description Latitude Longitude 

Date 

Sampled Sample Collect

Adaven Springs 38 08.25 -115 36.20 6/26/2007 By hand from stream discharging Alamo city water supply system - source of water is 

municipal well field 

37 21.74 -115 10.14 7/17/2007 By hand from municipal water w

Amargosa Valley school well 36 34.16 -116 27.66 8/30/2007 By hand at wellhead Beatty Water and Sewer municipal water distribution system 

36 50.00 -116 49.44 9/04/2007 By hand at holding tank containi

corner of Rhyolite and Bullfrog. of well supplying water to the ho

Boulder City municipal water distribution system 35 59.74 -114 49.90 8/28/2007 By hand from a drinking fountai

water originates from Lake Mead 

Caliente municipal water supply well 37 36.93 -114 30.98 7/17/2007 By hand at well in municipal welCedar City municipal water supply well about 7 miles (mi) 

west of town 

37 39.84 -113 13.03 7/19/2007 By hand at wellhead 

Delta municipal well 39 21.59 -112 34.65 7/18/2007 By hand at wellhead Duckwater water supply well 38 55.41 -115 41.99 6/27/2007 By hand at faucet inside pump hEly municipal water source 39 13.80 -114 54.01 6/27/2007 By hand from sump located in sp

are used as municipal water supp

Goldfield municipal water supply well about 11 mi north 

of town 

37 52.41 -117 14.96 9/04/2007 By hand at wellhead; sampled ne

Henderson municipal water distribution system 36 00.43 -114 57.95 8/28/2007 By hand from faucet inside CCSN 

originates from Lake Mead 

Indian Springs municipal well 36 34.41 -115 40.1 8/30/2007 By hand at wellhead. Coordinate

error. Coordinates have been cor

Las Vegas Valley Water District #103 36 13.94 -115 15.13 8/14/2007 By hand at wellhead Medlin’s Ranch - spring 10 mi west of ranch house 37 24.10 -115 32.25 9/05/2007 By hand at kitchen faucet; water 

west of ranch 

Mesquite municipal water supply well 2 mi S.E. of town 36 46.40 -114 03.26 9/07/2007 By hand at wellhead Milford municipal well 38 22.88 -112 59.78 7/18/2007 By hand at wellhead Nyala Ranch water well 38 14.93 -115 43.72 6/26/2007 By hand from front yard hose fau
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

 6-13

Table 6-6. CEMP water monitoring locations sampled in 2007 (continued) 

Monitoring Location Description Latitude Longitude 

Date 

Sampled Sample Collecti

Overton water well located at Arrow Canyon 

approximately 20 mi west of town 

36 44.06 -114 44.87 9/07/2007 By hand at wellhead 

Pahrump municipal water system 36 11.43 -116 00.38 9/11/2007 By hand from faucet inside Pahru

water originates from municipal w

Pioche municipal well 37 56.98 -114 25.78 7/17/2007 By hand at wellhead Rachel - Little Ale Inn well 37 38.79 -115 44.75 9/05/2007 By hand from faucet inside Lil Ale Sarcobatus Flats well 37 16.78 -117 01.92 9/04/2007 By hand at wellhead St. George municipal water distribution system 37 10.47 -113 23.92 7/19/2007 By hand at water treatment plant; 

Quail Creek Reservoir 

Stone Cabin Ranch 38 12.45 -116 37.99 6/26/2007 By hand from outside house fauce

spring 

Tecopa Residential Well 35 57.59 -116 15.71 8/30/2007 By hand at wellhead. Coordinates 

error. Coordinates corrected for th

Tonopah public utilities well field located approximately 

12 mi from town 

38 11.68 -117 04.70 9/05/2007 By hand at wellhead 

Twin Springs Ranch Well 38 12.21 -116 10.53 6/26/2007 By hand from wellhead. Coordin

error. Coordinates corrected for th

Note: Sample locations were resurveyed in 2007 using global positioning satellite data. Distances from well fields to sample locations we

Sample locations for Indian Springs, Tecopa, and Twin Springs Ranch did not change from previous years; however, coordinates winformation from the new survey. The following sample locations were moved in 2007: Beatty Water and Sewer, Goldfield, and Pwere based on discussions with the CEMP station managers. 
6-14 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 Figure 6-7. 2007 CEMP water monitoring locations 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 6-15 

The second tier of QA utilized on this project consisted of field QA samples. The intent of these samples and 

procedures was to provide direct measures of the contribution of radioactive material that was derived from the 

bottles, sampling equipment, and the environment to the activity of tritium measured within the samples. Duplicate 

samples were collected to establish a measure of the repeatability of the analysis. Nine samples (24 percent of the 

sample load) were collected for the purposes of meeting field QA requirements. Laboratory QA controls consisted of 

the utilization of published laboratory techniques for the analysis of tritium, method blanks, laboratory control 

samples, and laboratory duplicates. The laboratory QA samples provide a measure of the accuracy and the confidence 

of the reported results. 

Samples collected in 2007 were analyzed using gas proportional counting at the University of Miami. Detection limits 

were low enough that enrichment was not required. The decision level (LC) (see Glossary, Appendix B) of tritium 

ranged from 10.5 to 16.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The LC is the result that must be exceeded before there is a 

95 percent confidence that the sample contains radioactive material above laboratory background. The MDC (see 

Glossary, Appendix B) for tritium was approximately 26.5 pCi/L. NSTec reports that the MDC for enriched tritium 

analyses for the RREMP water samples ranged from 17 to 28 pCi/L with an average of 22.3 pCi/L (see Section 4.1.2). 

6.2.3 Results of Surface Water and Spring Discharge Monitoring 

Measured tritium (3H) concentrations from the springs and surface waters sampled in 2007 ranged from 

0 to 32.2 pCi/L (Table 6-7). Three of the samples, Adaven Springs, Medlin’s Ranch, and Stone Cabin Ranch, yielded 

results that were indistinguishable from background (i.e., ≤ LC). Samples from Ely, Boulder City, and St. George were 

above background (i.e., ≥ LC), yet the activity was too low to quantitatively distinguish from background at 95 percent 

confidence (i.e, < MDC). The sample from Henderson had a tritium activity that was sufficiently high to quantify 

above background with 95 percent confidence (i.e., ≥ MDC). The water in samples from Boulder City and 

Henderson originated from Lake Mead. Slightly elevated tritium activities in Lake Mead are well documented by 

previous investigations (U.S. Department of Energy [DOE], 2002e; 2003b; 2004b; 2005) and are due to residual 

tritium persisting in the environment that originated from global atmospheric nuclear testing. All tritium results were 

well below the safe drinking water limit of 20,000 pCi/L. 

All samples were analyzed for the presence of trends with respect to samples collected in previous years. No significant upward or downward trends in tritium concentrations were observed. The degree to which measured tritium 

fluctuates from year to year is consistent with, and due to, the relatively high level of uncertainty associated with each 

sample. 

Table 6-7. Tritium results for CEMP offsite surface water and spring discharges in 2007 

Monitoring Location 

3H ± Uncertainty (a)

(pCi/L) 

LC 

(pCi/L) 

Adaven Springs 9.7 ± 12.8 10.5 

Ely municipal water source 16.1 ± 12.8 10.5 

Medlin's Ranch 3.2 ± 12.8 10.5 

Stone Cabin Ranch -6.4 ± 12.8 10.5 

Boulder City municipal water distribution system 19.3 ± 19.4 10.5 

Henderson municipal water distribution system 32.2 ± 19.4 10.5 

St. George municipal water distribution system 22.6 ± 19.4 10.5 

(a) ± 2 standard deviations 

6.2.4 Results of Groundwater Monitoring 

The results for the 21 groundwater tritium analyses from the DRI Tritium Laboratory are presented in Table 6-8. 

One new sample location, Duckwater, Nevada, was added this year. The measured activities ranged from -9.7 to 

74.1 pCi/L. Most of the samples yielded results that were statistically indistinguishable from laboratory background 

(≤LC). The exceptions were samples obtained from Las Vegas, Mesquite, Overton, Rachel, and Sarcobatus Flat. Of 

these samples, only two exceeded the MDC (26.5 pCi/L). These samples were from Mesquite (74.1 ± 25.8 pCi/L) 
Oversight Radiological Monitoring of Air and Water

6-16 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

and Rachel (64.4 ± 25.8 pCi/L). The tritium activities for the Mesquite and Rachel samples were significantly elevated 

with respect to samples collected in 2006, which were 0.0 and 3.2 pCi/L, respectively. The elevated activities 

prompted DRI to request the reanalysis of the original samples as no duplicates were collected from these sites. The 

reanalysis of the Mesquite samples yielded an activity of 0 ± 19.4 pCi/L. The reanalysis of the Rachel sample yielded 

-6.4 ± 19.4 pCi/L. The mean value of the reanalysis was consistent with results obtained from previous years, casting 

doubt as to the results of the initial analysis. Examination of laboratory protocols failed to yield a definitive answer as 

to why the initial analyses yielded elevated results. All samples were well below the safe drinking water limit of 

20,000 pCi/L. 

All samples were analyzed for the presence of trends in tritium concentrations with respect to samples collected 

in previous years. The 2007 samples from Las Vegas, Overton, and Sarcobatus Flat had greater concentrations 

relative to their 2006 samples by 9.7, 6.5, and 19.3 pCi/L, respectively, while Milford had a lower concentration by 

12.9 pCi/L. Because the largest difference was observed with the Sarcobatus Flat sample, DRI requested reanalysis of 

this groundwater sample. The result of this reanalysis was -6.4 ± 19.4 pCi/L, which is consistent with previous years’ 

analyses. The difference in results between samples collected in 2006 and 2007 from Las Vegas, Overton, and 

Milford are not considered significant as the absolute differences are well within the range of uncertainty associated 

with each of the analyses. 

Table 6-8. Tritium results for CEMP offsite wells in 2007 

Monitoring Location 

3H ± Uncertainty (a) 

(pCi/L) 

LC 

(pCi/L) 

Alamo City -6.4 ± 12.8 10.5 

Amargosa Valley 6.4 ± 19.4 16 

Beatty 3.2 ± 12.8 16 

Caliente 3.2 ± 19.4 10.5 

Cedar City 6.4 ± 19.4 10.5 

Delta 3.2 ± 12.8 10.5 

Duckwater 6.4 ± 19.4 10.5 

Goldfield 3.2 ± 12.8 16 

Indian Springs 3.2 ± 12.8 16 

Las Vegas 12.9 ± 19.4 10.5 

Mesquite 74.1 (b) ± 25.8 10.5 

Milford 0 ± 19.4 10.5 

Nyala Ranch -3.2 ± 12.8 10.5 

Overton 12.9 ± 12.8 10.5 

Pahrump 0 ± 12.8 10.5 

Pioche 0 ± 19.4 10.5 

Rachel 64.4 (c) ± 25.8 10.5 

Sarcobatus Flats 19.3 ± 12.8 10.5 

Tecopa 3.2 ± 12.8 10.5 

Tonopah 9.7 ± 12.8 16 

Twin Springs Ranch -9.7 ± 12.8 10.5 

(a) ± 2 standard deviations 

(b) Result of sample reanalysis was 0 ± 19.4 pCi/L) 

(c) Result of sample reanalysis was -6.4 ± 19.4 pCi/L) 

6.2.5 Environmental Impact 

Results of the CEMP tritium analyses conducted on selected offsite groundwater wells and water supply systems 

surrounding the NTS showed no evidence of tritium migration offsite via groundwater. Most of the samples analyzed 

were below the LC for tritium (see Tables 6-7 and 6-8). The greatest observed activities, 74.1 pCi/L for Mesquite and 

64.4 pCi/L for Rachel, were not substantiated through reanalysis of the samples. All samples were well below the safe 

drinking water standard of 20,000 pCi/L. 
Radiological Biota Monitoring 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 7-1 

7.0 Radiological Biota Monitoring 

Historical atmospheric nuclear weapons testing, outfalls from underground nuclear tests, and radioactive waste 

disposal sites provide a source of potential radiation contamination and exposure to Nevada Test Site (NTS) plants 

and animals (biota). U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the 

Environment, requires that all DOE sites monitor radioactivity in the environment to ensure that the public does not 

receive a radiological dose greater than 100 millirems per year (mrem/yr) from all pathways of exposure, including the 

ingestion of contaminated plants and animals. The DOE also requires monitoring to determine if the radiological 

dose to aquatic and terrestrial biota on site exceeds DOE-established limits expressed in rad (for radiation absorbed 

dose, see Glossary, Appendix B) per day (rad/d). 

Current NTS land use precludes the harvest of plants or plant parts (e.g., pine nuts and wolf berries) for direct 

consumption by humans. Therefore, the ingestion of game animals is the primary potential biotic pathway for 

radionuclide contamination from the NTS to the public. Game birds and game mammals that occur on the NTS may 

travel off the site and become available, through hunting, for consumption by the public. Game animals are therefore 

monitored under the Routine Radiological Environmental Monitoring Plan (RREMP) (DOE, 2003a). In 2007, National 

Security Technologies, LLC, Environmental Technical Services, conducted the monitoring. 

Game animals and plants are sampled annually from known contaminated sites on the NTS to estimate hypothetical 

doses to hunters (i.e., the public), measure the potential for radionuclide transfer through the food chain, and 

determine if NTS plants and animals themselves are exposed to radiation levels harmful to their populations. Plants 

and animals are also sampled from Radioactive Waste Management Sites (RWMS) as a measure of potential contact 

with the waste (integrity of waste containment). This section describes the biota monitoring program designed to 

meet public and environmental radiation protection regulations (see Section 2.3) and presents the results of field 

sampling and analyses in 2007. The reader is directed to the RREMP (DOE, 2003a) for a more detailed description of 

monitoring design and methods. The estimated radiological dose, both to humans consuming game animals from the 

NTS and to biota found in contaminated areas of the NTS, that was calculated based on 2007 monitoring data is 

presented in Section 8.0. 

Radiological Biota Monitoring Goals Analytes Measured in 

Plant and Animal Tissues 

Determine if the potential dose to humans consuming game animals from the 

NTS is less than 100 mrem/yr, the limit set by DOE Order 5400.5. 

Demonstrate that projected releases of radionuclides to the environment from 

the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs shall be maintained as per Performance 

Assessments required by DOE Order 435.1. 

Determine if the absorbed radiation dose to NTS biota is less than the 

following limits set by DOE Order 5400.5 and DOE Standard DOE-STD1153-2002: 

 < 1 rad/d for terrestrial plants and aquatic animals 

 < 0.1 rad/d for terrestrial animals 

Americium-241 (241Am) 

Cesium-137 (137Cs) 

Tritium (3H) 

Plutonium-239+240 (239+240Pu) 

Strontium-90 (90Sr) 

Uranium isotopes 

7.1 Species Selection 

The goal for vegetation monitoring is to sample the most contaminated plants within the NTS environment. 

Contaminated plants are generally found inside demarcated radiological areas near the “ground zero” locations of 

historical aboveground nuclear tests. The plant species selected for sampling represent the most dominant plant life 

forms (e.g., trees, shrubs, herbs, or grasses) at these sites. Woody vegetation (i.e., shrubs versus forbs or grasses) is 
Radiological Biota Monitoring

7-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

primarily selected for sampling because such vegetation is reported to have deeper penetrating roots and higher 

concentrations of 3H (Hunter and Kinnison, 1998). Additionally, this vegetation serves as a major source of browse 

for game animals that might eat such vegetation and potentially migrate off site. Grasses and forbs are also sampled 

when present, however, because they are also a source of food for wildlife. Plant parts collected for analysis represent 

new growth over the past year. 

Three criteria were used to determine which animal species to monitor for assessing potential dose to the public: 

(1) the species has a relatively high probability of entering the human food chain; (2) the species has a home range 

which overlaps a contaminated site and, as a result, has the potential for relatively high radionuclide body burdens 

from exposure to contaminated soil, air, water, or plants at the contaminated site; and (3) the species is sufficiently 

abundant at a site to acquire an adequate tissue sample for laboratory analysis. These criteria limited the candidate 

game animals on the NTS to those listed below. 

Candidate NTS Game Animals Monitored for Dose Assessments 

Birds Small Mammals Large Mammals 

Mourning dove 

 (Zenaida macroura) 

Cottontail rabbit 

 (Sylvilagus audubonii) 

Mule deer 

 (Odocoileus hemionus)

Chukar 

 (Alectoris chukar) 

Jackrabbit 

 (Lepus californicus) 

Pronghorn antelope 

 (Antilocapra americana) 

Gambel’s quail 

 (Callipepla gambelii) 

Mule deer and pronghorn antelope are only collected as the opportunity arises if they are found dead on the NTS 

(e.g., from accidentally being hit by a vehicle). Tissues from other game species, such as predators, or species 

analogous to big game, such as feral horses, may be collected opportunistically as well. 

No native fish or amphibians are found in surface waters of the NTS. There is no potential radiological dose pathway 

directly from NTS aquatic animals to humans. No aquatic invertebrates or non-native fish or amphibians are sampled 

for radionuclide tissue analyses. 

The criteria used to select animals to monitor for assessing the integrity of waste containment at radioactive waste sites 

were (1) the species burrows and lives predominantly underground (fossorial), (2) the species has a home range small 

enough to ensure it resides most of its time on the waste disposal site if trapped there, and (3) the species is 

sufficiently abundant at a site to acquire an adequate tissue sample for laboratory analysis. These criteria limited the 

candidate game animals on the NTS to those listed below. 

Candidate NTS Small Mammals Monitored for RWMS Integrity 

Kangaroo rat (Dipodomys sp.) 

Mice (Peromyscus sp.) 

Desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida)

7.2 Site Selection and Description 

The monitoring design for estimating human and animal doses focuses on sampling those sites having the highest 

known concentrations of radionuclides in other media (e.g., soil and surface water) and sites that have relatively high 

densities of candidate animals. Currently, five sites are selected for regular monitoring; each site is sampled at least 

once every five years. These sites are E Tunnel Ponds, Palanquin, Sedan, T2, and Plutonium Valley (Figure 7-1). The 

control site selected for each contaminated site has similar biological and physical features. Control sites are sampled 

to document radionuclide levels representative of background. Other sites may be monitored if new sites become 

radiologically contaminated or if contamination conditions change (e.g., through the addition of water pumped from 

contaminated groundwater or from soil disturbance). 
Radiological Biota Monitoring 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 7-3 

 Figure 7-1. Radiological biota monitoring sites on the NTS and sites sampled in 2007 
Radiological Biota Monitoring

7-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

In 2007, E Tunnel Ponds site was sampled. The site is located just southeast of Rainier Mesa in Area 12 in the 

northern part of the NTS at an elevation of 1,828 meters (m) (6,000 feet [ft]). Radionuclide-contaminated water and 

soils occur at this site. The ponds were constructed to collect and hold contaminated water (mainly from 3H) which 

drains out of E Tunnel where nuclear testing was conducted. The water is perched groundwater that has percolated 

through fractures in the tunnel system. Mourning doves occur at relatively high densities near these ponds. Camp 17 

pond is the control site for E Tunnel Ponds. 

The Area 3 RWMS, Area 5 RWMS, and their control sites were also sampled in 2007. The Area 3 RWMS is in Yucca 

Flat at an elevation of 1,223 m (4,012 ft). Yucca Flat was one of several primary nuclear test areas. Between 1952 and 

1972, 60 nuclear weapons tests were conducted within 400 m (1,312 ft) of the Area 3 RWMS boundary. Fourteen of 

these tests were atmospheric, which left radionuclides, primarily 3H, 90Sr, 137Cs, 152Eu, 239+240Pu, and 241Am, in the 

surface soil across the area. Waste disposal cells within the Area 3 RWMS are subsidence craters resulting from 

underground nuclear testing. Craters U-3ax and U-3bl were combined to form the U-3ax/bl disposal unit (Corrective 

Action Unit 110), which is now covered with a vegetated, native alluvium closure cover that is at least 2.4 m (8 ft) 

thick. Sampling in 2007 was conducted on the U-3ax/bl cover. 

The Area 5 RWMS is in northern Frenchman Flat at an elevation of 962 m (3,156 ft) and consists of numerous landfill 

pits, trenches, and boreholes (see Section 9.1.3). Waste disposal has occurred at the site since the early 1960s. Disposal consists of placing waste in various sealed containers in unlined pits and trenches that range in depth from 4.6 to 

15 m (15 to 48 ft). Soil backfill, approximately 2.4 m (8 ft) thick, is pushed over the containers that extend approximately 1.2 m (4 ft) below original grade. Buried radioactive materials at the Area 5 RWMS consist primarily of 3H, 

90Sr, 137Cs, uranium (various isotopes), plutonium (various isotopes), and 241Am. No nuclear weapons testing occurred 

within the boundaries of the Area 5 RWMS. Sampling was conducted on pits 1, 2, 5, and 8, and trenches 2, 6, and 7. 

The control site for both the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs is in Area 22 (Figure 7-1). 

7.3 Sampling Methods 

7.3.1 Plants 

Plant sampling occurred on June 27 at the E Tunnel Ponds and its control site, on August 27 at the RWMSs’ control 

site, and on August 28 at the RWMSs. The plant species sampled (Table 7-1) represent the dominant shrubs present 

at each site. Each sample consisted of about 150 to 500 grams (5.3 to 17.6 ounces) of fresh-weight plant material. 

Samples from the RWMSs were individual plants while the E Tunnel Ponds and control site samples consisted of a 

composite of material from many plants of the same species in the sample area. Leaves and stems were hand-plucked 

and stored in airtight plastic bags. Rubber gloves were used by samplers and changed between each composite sample 

collected. Samples were labeled and stored in an ice chest. Within four hours of collection, the samples were 

delivered to the laboratory. Water was separated from plant samples by distillation. Water and dried plant tissues 

were submitted to a commercial laboratory for analysis of radionuclides. Water from plants was analyzed for 3H and 

dried plant tissue was analyzed for gamma-emitting radionuclides, 90Sr, uranium, plutonium, and 241Am. 

Table 7-1. Plant species sampled at E Tunnel Ponds, Area 3 RWMS, Area 5 RWMS, and control sites in 2007 

Common Name 

Name 

Abbreviation(a) Scientific Name 

E Tunnel 

Ponds

Control 

Site 

Area 3 

RWMS 

Area 5 

RWMS 

Control 

Site 

Basin big sagebrush ARTR Artemisia tridentata XX 

Four-wing saltbush ATCA Atriplex canescens X X 

Shadscale saltbush ATCO Atriplex confertifolia X 

Cattle saltbush ATPO Atriplex polycarpa X 

Rubber rabbitbrush ERNA Ericameria nauseosus X X 

Utah juniper JUOS Juniperus osteosperma X X 

Narrowleaf willow SAEX Salix exigua X 

Russian thistle Salsola Salsola sp. X 

Saltcedar TARA Tamarix ramosissima X 

Creosote bush LATR Larrea tridentata X 

(a) Plant name abbreviation used in the sample results table (Table 7-2) 
Radiological Biota Monitoring 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 7-5 

7.3.2 Animals 

State and federal permits were secured to trap and analyze kangaroo rats, mice, rabbits, Gambel’s quail, chukar, and 

mourning doves during 2007 as well as to sample road-killed, large game animals. Animal trapping took place July 

through August. Two mourning doves were trapped at the E Tunnel Ponds, five kangaroo rats were trapped at the 

Area 3 RWMS (U-3ax/bl), one kangaroo rat was trapped at the Area 5 RWMS, and three woodrats were trapped at 

the RWMS control site. No animals were successfully trapped at the E Tunnel Ponds control site during 2007. The 

animals trapped at the Area 3 RWMS were composited as were the animals trapped at the RWMS control site. 

Opportunistic sampling of two large mammals occurred in 2007: a pronghorn antelope killed by an automobile on the 

5-01 road in Area 5, and a wild horse foal killed by predators in Area 18. Only muscle tissue was collected from these 

animals. 

In the laboratory, samples were individually homogenized using an industrial meat grinder and food processor. Past 

results have shown radionuclide concentrations generally higher in the skin, bone, and viscera of animals compared 

with muscle tissue. Though muscle tissue is usually the only portion consumed by humans, whole animals were 

homogenized to give a more conservative (higher) estimate of potential dose to someone consuming the animals (see 

Section 8.1.3). Water was distilled from the samples and submitted to a laboratory for 3H analysis, and the dried 

tissue samples were submitted for analysis of gamma-emitting radionuclides, 90Sr, uranium, plutonium, and 241Am. 

7.4 Results 

7.4.1 Plants 

Concentrations of man-made radionuclides detected in 2007 NTS plant samples are shown in Table 7-2. Uranium 

was detected, but at levels and isotopic ratios consistent with natural uranium. All plant samples from the E Tunnel 

Ponds, Area 3 RWMS and Area 5 RWMS had detectable concentrations of man-made radionuclides. Activity in 

samples was dominated by 3H but also included 90Sr, 137Cs, and 239+240Pu. Only two samples, one each from the E 

Tunnel Ponds and RWMS control site, had concentrations of 90Sr slightly higher than the minimum detectable concentration (MDC). As expected, monitored sites had higher concentrations of radionuclides than their control sites. 

At E Tunnel Ponds, the average concentrations of all detected radionuclides, except for 90Sr, were higher in 2007 than 

in 1999, the last time the site was sampled (Figure 7-2). The variability between samples within each year was high 

enough to make them not significantly different between years. At the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs, the median 3H 

concentration in water from plants sampled in the years 1999–2002, 2005, and 2007 are also not significantly different 

across years due to the high variability within each year (Figure 7-3). 

7.4.2 Animals 

Man-made radionuclides were detected in all animal samples except those from the RWMS control site (Table 7-3). 

Activity levels were dominated by 3H in samples from the E Tunnel Ponds and the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs. 90Sr, 

137Cs, 239+240Pu, and 241Am were detected in the composite sample from Area 3 RWMS but not in samples from Area 5 

RWMS or E Tunnel Ponds. A trace amount of 3H was detected in the muscle tissue of the pronghorn antelope 

sampled from Area 5, and a trace amount of 90Sr was detected in the muscle tissue of the horse sampled in Area 18. 

Uranium was also detected, but at levels and isotopic ratios not different from those expected with natural uranium. 

Figure 7-4 displays average concentrations of radionuclides detected in animal samples collected from the E Tunnel 

site during 2007 compared with those detected in samples collected since 2000. Variability of results within each year 

was relatively high, making differences between years negligible. 

Over the past ten years, animals have only been sampled at the RWMSs in 2005 and 2007. 3H activity dominates the 

radionuclides detected (Figure 7-5). Only single samples were analyzed for Area 3 RWMS in 2005 and for both the 

Area 3 and Area 5 RWMS in 2007, so the sample-to-sample variability, which usually dominates, is unknown. For this 

reason, differences between years shown in Figure 7-5 should be interpreted cautiously. 
7-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 Table 7-2. Concentrations of man-made radionuclides in plants sampled in 2007 

Radionuclide Concentrations ± Uncertainty(a) Sample 3H(b) 90Sr(c) 137Cs(c) 

E Tunnel Ponds ARTR #1 399,000 ± 40,600 0.00 ± 0.04 -0.04 ± 0.09 0.00

ARTR #2 441,000 ± 44,900 0.03 ± 0.03 0.15 ± 0.16 0.01ERNA #1 480,000 ± 48,900 -0.03 ± 0.06 0.01 ± 0.25 -0.00ERNA #2 498,000 ± 50,700 0.01 ± 0.04 0.07 ± 0.12 0.00JUOS #1 456,000 ± 46,400 0.03 ± 0.05 0.25 ± 0.13 -0.00JUOS #2 358,000 ± 36,400 0.10 ± 0.04 0.08 ± 0.13 0.00TARA #1 555,000 ± 56,500 0.00 ± 0.04 0.30 ± 0.17 0.01TARA #2 461,000 ± 46,900 0.02 ± 0.04 0.17 ± 0.13 0.00

 % Above MDC (Average MDC): 100% (461) 12.5% (0.08) 50% (0.15) 2

Area 3 RWMS (AX/BL) 

ATCA #1 52,200 ± 5,320 0.08 ± 0.03 0.08 ± 0.08 -0.00ATCO #1 3,850 ± 486 0.17 ± 0.05 0.02 ± 0.06 0.02ATCO #2 16,900 ± 1,780 0.37 ± 0.09 -0.01 ± 0.04 0.01

 % Above MDC (Average MDC): 100% (249) 100% (0.04) 33.3% (0.06) 33

Area 5 RWMS 

ATCA #1 151,000 ± 15,400 -0.03 ± 0.03 0.02 ± 0.06 0.00ATPO #1 169,000 ± 17,200 0.01 ± 0.03 0.01 ± 0.04 0.00ATPO #2 13,800 ± 1,470 -0.02 ± 0.02 -0.02 ± 0.03 0.00Salsola #1 149,000 ± 15,200 -0.02 ± 0.02 0.01 ± 0.07 0.00Salsola #2 4,240 ± 526 0.01 ± 0.03 -0.01 ± 0.08 0.00

 % Above MDC (Average MDC): 100% (329) 0% (0.05) 0% (0.07) 0

E Tunnel Ponds - Control 

ARTR #1 90 ± 167 0.01 ± 0.04 -0.16 ± 0.16 0.00ARTR #2 37 ± 156 -0.06 ± 0.05 0.13 ± 0.11 0.00ERNA #1 37 ± 155 -0.05 ± 0.03 -0.18 ± 0.14 0.00ERNA #2 51 ± 154 0.05 ± 0.05 0.00 ± 0.10 0.00JUOS #1 0 ± 141 0.00 ± 0.05 -0.05 ± 0.14 -0.00JUOS #2 35 ± 148 0.12 ± 0.05 0.01 ± 0.11 0.00SAEX #1 0 ± 146 0.08 ± 0.06 0.03 ± 0.12 -0.00SAEX #2 71 ± 161 0.07 ± 0.05 0.04 ± 0.09 -0.00

 % Above MDC (Average MDC): 0% (295) 12.5% (0.08) 0% (0.17) 0

RWMS Control 

LATR 187 ± 145 0.04 ± 0.03 -0.02 ± 0.04 0.00

 % Above MDC (Average MDC): 0% (235) 100% (0.04) 0% (0.067) 0

Green-shaded results are considered detected (results greater than the sample-specific MDC). (a) ± 2 standard deviations (b) picocuries per liter water from sample (c) picocuries per gram dry weight of sample 
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 7-7

Table 7-3. Concentrations of man-made radionuclides in animals sampled in 2007

 Radionuclide Concentrations ± Uncertainty(a)

Sample 3H(b) 90Sr(c) 137Cs(c) 239/240Pu(c) 

E Tunnel  Dove #1 308,000 ± 31,400 -0.01 ± 0.06 0.02 ± 0.12 0.0059 ± 0.0095  Dove #2 363,000 ± 37,000 0.01 ± 0.06 -0.01 ± 0.10 0.0000 ± 0.0059 

% Above MDC (Average MDC) 100% (817) 0% (0.12) 0% (0.13) 0% (0.0126) 

Area 3 RWMS (AX/BL) 

Kangaroo Rats (composite of 5) 5,910 ± 689 0.11 ± 0.04 0.06 ± 0.04 0.1120 ± 0.0444 

% Above MDC (Average MDC) 100% (246) 100% (0.05) 100% (0.05) 100% (0.0201) 

Area 5 RWMS 

Kangaroo Rat (one animal) 95,800 ± 9,750 0.00 ± 0.03 0.08 ± 0.12 -0.0007 ± 0.0055 

% Above MDC (Average MDC) 100% (318) 0% (0.06) 0% (0.19) 0% (0.0130) 

RWMS Control Site 

Wood Rat (composite of 3) 80.9 ± 147 0.03 ± 0.04 -0.02 ± 0.09 0.0023 ± 0.0062 

% Above MDC (Average MDC) 0% (252) 0% (0.07) 0% (0.13) 0% (0.0146) 

Opportunistic Sampling 

Pronghorn muscle (Area 5) 837 ± 258 0.07 ± 0.12 0.26 ± 0.32 0.0119 ± 0.0234 

 Horse muscle (Area 18) -284 ± 201 0.16 ± 0.27 0.41 ± 0.30 0.0361 ± 0.0452 

% Above MDC (Average MDC) 50% (364) 0% (0.32) 50% (0.40) 0% (0.0492) 

Green-shaded results are considered detected (results greater than the sample-specific MDC). (a) ± 2 standard deviations (b) picocuries per liter water from sample (c) picocuries per gram dry weight of sample - samples about 75% water by weight 
Radiological Biota Monitoring

7-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

0

100000

200000

300000

400000

500000

600000

H-3

Average Concentration (pCi/L)

0.00

0.05

0.10

0.15

0.20

0.25

0.30

Sr-90 Cs-137 Pu-239+240

Radionuclide Average Concentration (pCi/g)

1999

2007

Figure 7-2. Concentrations of man-made radionuclides in plants from E Tunnel Ponds, 1999 and 2007 

100

1,000

10,000

100,000

1,000,000

10,000,000

100,000,000

1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Median Concentration of H-3 in Water

from Sampled Plants (pCi/L)

Area 3 RWMS (ax/bl)

Area 5 RWMS

Error bars extend from the minimum to maximum value observed in that year. No error bars indicate a single composite sample was collected. No Plant Samples Collected No Plant Samples Collected No Plant Samples Collected

 

Figure 7-3. Average 3H in plants sampled at the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMS, 2002, 2005, and 2007
Radiological Biota Monitoring 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 7-9 

0

100,000

200,000

300,000

400,000

500,000

600,000

700,000

800,000

H-3

Radionuclide

Average Concentration

in Water from Animal Samples (pCi/L)

2000 2001 2002 2003 2007

-0.05

0.45

0.95

1.45

1.95

2.45

2.95

Sr-90 Cs-137 Pu 239+240 Am-241

Average Concentration

in Tissue (pCi/g - dry wt)

Figure 7-4. Concentrations of man-made radionuclides in animals sampled from E Tunnel Ponds, 2000–2007 

100

1,000

10,000

100,000

1,000,000

2005 2006 2007

Median Concentratin of H-3

in Water from Sampled Animals (pCi/L)

Area 3 RWMS (ax/bl)

Area 5 RWMS

No Animal Samples Collected

Error bars extend from the minimum to maximum value observed. If no error bars, only one composite or grab sample taken.

Figure 7-5. 3H in animals sampled at the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs, 2005 and 2007 
Radiological Biota Monitoring

7-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

7.5 Data Assessment 

As expected, higher concentrations of radionuclides were detected in biota sampled at locations with known 

radionuclide sources compared with control locations. To assess the integrity of waste containment methods at the 

Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs, continued monitoring of plants at these sites will be conducted. Significant increases in 

plant and animal radionuclide burdens over time may indicate their access to waste. 3H is a very mobile radionuclide. 

It may move as a gas, or more commonly, as water vapor. It is therefore expected to be found in both plants and 

animals inhabiting waste sites. The limited biota monitoring data over the last ten years provide no evidence of 

significant changes in plant and animal uptake of 3H and therefore an increased accessibility to waste at the RWMS. 

There are also no significant changes in radionuclide concentrations in plants and game animals at the E Tunnel 

Ponds. While radionuclides were detected, they pose negligible risk to humans. The potential dose to a person 

hunting and consuming these animals is well below dose limits to members of the public (see Section 8.1.4). Also, 

radionuclide concentrations were below levels considered harmful to the health of the plants or animals; the dose 

resulting from observed concentrations were less than 1 percent of dose limits set to protect populations of plants and 

animals (see Section 8.2). 
Radiological Dose Assessment

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 8-1 

8.0 Radiological Dose Assessment 

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program, and DOE Order 5400.5, 

Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment (see Section 2.3), require DOE facilities to estimate the radiological 

dose to the general public and to plants and animals in the environment caused by past or present facility operations. 

Mathematical models are used to estimate these radiological doses along with data gathered by National Security 

Technologies, LLC (NSTec), in 2007 and data from past radiation surveys that inventoried the radionuclide content of 

Nevada Test Site (NTS) surface soils. The 2007 data used are presented in Sections 3.0 through 7.0 of this report and 

include the results for onsite compliance monitoring of air, water, direct radiation, and biota, and the offsite monitoring results of air, direct radiation, and water reported by the Community Environmental Monitoring Program 

(CEMP). The specific goals for the dose assessment component of radiological monitoring are shown below along 

with the compliance measures which are calculated in order to accomplish these assessment goals. 

Radiological Dose Assessment Goals Compliance Measures 

Determine if the maximum radiation dose to a member of the general 

public from airborne radionuclide emissions at the NTS is less than the 

Clean Air Act, National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air 

Pollutants (NESHAP) limit of 10 millirems per year (mrem/yr) (0.1 

millisieverts [mSv]/yr). 

Determine if the total radiation dose to a member of the general public 

from all possible pathways (direct exposure, inhalation, ingestion of 

water and food) as a result of NTS operations is less than the limit of 

100 mrem/yr established by DOE Order 5400.5. 

Determine if the radiation dose (in a unit of measure called a rad [see 

Glossary, Appendix B]) to NTS biota is less than the following limits 

set by DOE Order 5400.5 and DOE Standard DOE-STD-1153-2002: 

 < 1 rad per day (rad/d) for terrestrial plants and aquatic animals 

 < 0.1 rad/d for terrestrial animals 

Annual average concentrations of 

radionuclides at six NTS critical-receptor 

air sampling locations compared to the 

Concentration Levels for Environmental 

Compliance, Table 2, Appendix E, 

40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 61 

(NESHAP) 

Committed effective dose equivalent 

(CEDE) for an offsite resident from all 

pathways, in mrem/yr (or mSv/yr) 

Absorbed dose to onsite plants and 

animals, in rad/d 

8.1 Radiological Dose to the Public 

Several steps are taken to compute radiological dose to the public from all pathways. This section briefly describes 

these steps, identifies how field monitoring data interface with other NTS data sources (e.g., radionuclide inventory 

data) to provide input to the dose estimates, and presents the results of each step. 

8.1.1 Possible Exposure Pathways to the Public 

As prescribed in the Routine Radiological Environmental Monitoring Plan (DOE, 2003a), NSTec routinely sampled air, 

groundwater, and biota to document the amount of radioactivity in these media and to provide data that can be used 

to assess the radiation dose received by the general public. 

The potential pathways by which a member of the general public residing offsite might receive a radiation dose 

resulting from past or present NTS operations include: 

1. Inhalation of, ingestion of, or direct external exposure to airborne radionuclide emissions transported offsite 

by wind 
Radiological Dose Assessment

8-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

2. Ingestion of meat from wild game animals that drink from surface waters and eat vegetation containing NTSrelated radioactivity 

3. Drinking contaminated water from underground aquifers containing radionuclides that have migrated from 

the sites of past underground nuclear tests 

4. Exposure to direct radiation along the borders of the NTS 

5. Exposure to direct radiation from the release of property (e.g., equipment, building materials) containing 

residual radioactive material 

In 2007, only the wind transport pathway (pathway 1), the ingestion of wild game (pathway 2), and the exposure to 

property containing radioactive material (pathway 5) were credible pathways of exposure to the public residing offsite. 

The subsections below address all of the potential pathways and their contribution to public dose estimated for 2007. 

8.1.2 Dose to the Public from NTS Air Emissions 

Six air particulate and tritium (3H) sampling stations located near the boundaries and the center of the NTS are 

approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region IX as critical receptor samplers to demonstrate 

compliance with the NESHAP public dose limit of 10 mrem/yr from air emissions. Analysis of air particulate and 3H 

data obtained at these six stations was performed in 2007 (Section 3.1.5). To be in compliance with NESHAP, the 

annual average concentration of an airborne radionuclide must be less than its NESHAP Concentration Level for 

Environmental Compliance (abbreviated as compliance level [CL]) (see Table 3-1 of Section 3.1.1). The CL for each 

radionuclide represents the annual average concentration of that radionuclide in air which would result in a CEDE of 

10 mrem/yr. If multiple radionuclides are detected at a station, then compliance with NESHAP is demonstrated 

when the sum of the fractions (determined by dividing each radionuclide’s concentration by its CL and then adding 

the fractions together) is less than 1.0. 

The following radionuclides were detected at three or more of the critical receptor samplers: americium-241 (241Am), 

plutonium-238 (238Pu), plutonium-239+240 (239+240Pu), uranium-233+234 (233+234U), uranium-235+236 (235+236U), 

uranium-238 (238U), and 3H (Section 3.1.5). All concentrations of these radionuclides were well below their CLs. The 

uranium isotopes are attributed to naturally occurring uranium. The concentration of each measured radionuclide 

(excluding uranium, since it has been determined to be of natural origin) at each of the six critical receptor samplers 

was divided by its respective CL to obtain a “fraction of CL.” These fractions were then summed for each location 

and all were less than 1.0 (see Table 3-12, Section 3.1.5). As in previous years, the 2007 data from the six critical 

receptor samplers show that the NESHAP dose limit to the public of 10 mrem/yr was not exceeded. The Schooner 

critical receptor station in the far northwest corner of the NTS had the highest concentrations of radioactive air 

emissions, yet an individual residing at this station would experience a dose from air emissions of only 1.9 mrem/yr, 

19 percent of the admissible dose limit. No one resides at this location, and the dose at offsite populated locations 

20–80 kilometers (km) (12–50 miles [mi]) from the Schooner station would be much lower due to wind dispersion. 

 

In previous years (1992–2004), the air transport model called Clean Air Package 1988 (CAP88-PC) was used to 

calculate the dose to the public from NTS air emissions, including diffuse emissions from legacy soil contamination.

Beginning in 2005, CAP88-PC was no longer used. The air sampling data from the critical receptor stations, now 

used to calculate public dose, provides a more conservative estimate of potential dose to the public. See Sections 3.1 

and 8.0 of the Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2005 (DOE, 2006a) for discussions on this change in dose 

assessment methods. The CAP88-PC model is used, however, to evaluate new projects and activities for NESHAP 

compliance (see Sections 3.1.7–3.1.9). In 2007, no unplanned releases occurred and airborne emissions from planned 

projects and new activities resulted in an emission less than ten percent of that estimated from legacy soil 

contamination (Warren and Grossman, 2008). 

 
Radiological Dose Assessment

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 8-3 

8.1.3 Dose to the Public from Ingestion of Wild Game from the NTS 

Few data suggest that NTS small game animals travel offsite and become available to hunters. However, they are 

sampled on the NTS near contaminated areas as a conservative (worst case) estimate of the levels of radionuclides 

that hunters may consume if game animals did leave the NTS and were harvested. In 2007, mourning doves were 

sampled from the E Tunnel Ponds site and the E Tunnel Ponds control site, and one pronghorn antelope and one 

feral horse (analog of a big game animal) were opportunistically sampled (see Section 7.0) for radioanalysis. 

Only 3H was detected in the dove and antelope samples, and only cesium-137 (137Cs) was detected in the horse sample 

(see Table 7-3, Section 7.0). As the horse is an analog to a big game animal, the 137Cs concentration in its muscle 

tissue was attributed to the antelope for the calculation of potential dose. The potential dose from consuming these 

game animals was calculated using the following assumptions: 

• One individual consumed 20 doves and one antelope over the year (these numbers are the possession limits set 

for these species by the Nevada Division of Wildlife).

• Each animal consumed contained the average concentration of radionuclides (expressed as picocuries per liter 

(pCi/L) or picocuries per gram (pCi/g) that was detected in the muscle tissue of the doves and antelope 

sampled. 

• The amount consumed was 600 grams (g) of dove meat (30 g per dove) and 17,600 g of antelope meat. 

• The moisture content of meat consumed was 75 percent. 

The CEDE was calculated using dose conversion factors (DOE, 1988) multiplied by the total activity estimated to be 

consumed for each of the detected radionuclides. The resultant potential doses are shown in Table 8-1. The highest 

estimated CEDE was 0.091 mrem (0.00091 mSv), which is only 0.091 percent of the annual dose limit for members 

of the public. The dose from consuming 20 doves from the E Tunnel Ponds, based on 2007 samples, would be 

0.0095 mrem (0.000095 mSv). If someone were to consume just one dove from the E Tunnel Ponds, the potential 

dose would be only about 0.0005 mrem (0.000005 mSv). 

The radionuclide contributing most to dose was 137Cs in the muscle tissue of the horse, which was assumed to be in 

the antelope. 3H was present in higher concentrations than 137Cs, but contributes relatively little to the dose because it 

only emits low energy beta particles and has a short biological half-life. 

To put these potential doses in perspective, the dose from naturally occurring cosmic radiation received during a onehour airplane flight at 39,000 feet is about 0.5 mrem (0.005 mSv), or over five times higher than the CEDE from 

consuming the antelope from Area 5 and over 50 times higher than consuming 20 doves like the ones sampled in 2007. 

Table 8-1. Hypothetical dose to a human consuming NTS doves and pronghorn antelope based on 2007 samples 

 

Average Radionuclide 

Concentrations(a)

Dose Conversion 

Factor (mrem/pCi 

ingested)(b)

Committed 

Effective Dose 

Equivalent 

(mrem)(c)

Total CEDE 

(mrem) 

E Tunnel Ponds 

 Mourning dove 3H 335,500 pCi/L(d) 0.000000063 0.0095 0.0095 

Opportunistic Sampling 

 Pronghorn antelope 3H 837 pCi/L(d) 0.000000063 0.00070 

 137Cs 0.41 pCi/g(e) 0.000050000 0.090 0.091 

 

(a) Negative values were set to zero prior to obtaining average 

(b) Dose conversion factors for human ingestion are from DOE (1988) 

(c) CEDE calculation assumes 600 g of dove breast meat and 17,600 g of antelope meat were consumed 

(d) Muscle water content was 75 percent by weight 

(e) pCi/g are for dry weight 
Radiological Dose Assessment

8-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

8.1.4 Dose to the Public from Drinking Contaminated Groundwater 

The migration of radioactivity in groundwater has not been detected in the past or in 2007 (see Section 4.1). 

Therefore, drinking contaminated groundwater is not a possible pathway of exposure to the public residing offsite. 

8.1.5 Dose to the Public from Direct Radiation Exposure along NTS Borders 

The direct exposure pathway from gamma radiation to the public is monitored annually (see Section 5.0). In 2007, the 

only place where the public had the potential to be exposed to direct radiation along the NTS borders was at Gate 100, 

the primary entrance to the site on the southern NTS border. Trucks hauling radioactive materials, primarily low-level 

radioactive waste being shipped for disposal at the Area 3 and 5 Radioactive Waste Management Sites, park outside 

Gate 100 while waiting for entry approval. Only during these times is there a potential for exposure to the public on 

the NTS. However, no member of the public resides or remains full-time at the Gate 100 truck parking area. 

8.1.6 Dose to the Public from Release of Property Containing Residual 

Radioactive Material 

The release of property off the NTS that contains residual radioactive material is another type of release to the 

environment and potential contributor to the dose received by the public. No vehicles, equipment, structures, or 

other materials can be released from the NTS unless the amount of radiological contamination on such items is less 

than the authorized limits specified in the NV/YMP Radiological Control Manual (Table 8-2) (DOE, 2004c) as 

specified in DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment. Items proposed for unrestricted 

release must be surveyed to document compliance with the release criteria. 

In 2000, DOE placed a moratorium on the release of scrap material from radiological areas for recycling. This 

moratorium is still in effect. Government vehicles and equipment are routinely released or excessed when they are no 

longer needed by NTS projects or if they are required to be replaced. They are permitted to be released based on a 

combination of process knowledge and direct and indirect surveys such that the release criteria of Table 8-2 are met. 

Some building structures on the NTS once housed uncontained contamination. NSTec has no plans to release such 

structures off the NTS. If, in the future, there are plans to do so, the criteria for their unrestricted release will be 

determined through agreements between the affected stakeholders (e.g., DOE and the State of Nevada). 

In September of 2007, it was discovered that a piece of heavy equipment that contained radioactive material slightly 

above the unrestricted release criteria of DOE Order 5400.5 had been released off site (see Section 2.3.1). The 

equipment was returned with the radioactive material still on it. The estimated maximum dose consequence to an 

individual who spent 12 hours per day within 1 foot of the radioactive material for all 112 days the equipment was 

offsite and ingested all the removable radioactive material is less than 0.2 mrem. NSTec is upgrading their process for 

release of materials and equipment to prevent the occurrence of similar events in the future.

Table 8-2. Allowable total residual surface contamination for property released off NTS 

 Residual Surface Contamination (dpm/100 cm2)(a)

Radionuclide Removable

Average(b)

(Fixed & Removable) 

Maximum Allowable(c) 

(Fixed & Removable) 

Transuranics, 125I, 129I, 226Ra, 227Ac, 228Ra, 228Th, 230Th, 231Pa 20 100 300 

Th-natural, 90Sr, 126I, 131I, 133I, 223Ra, 224Ra, 232U, 232Th 200 1,000 3,000 

U-natural, 235U, 238U and associated decay products, alpha emitters 1,000 5,000 15,000 

Beta-gamma emitters (radionuclides with decay modes other than 

alpha emission or spontaneous fission) except 90Sr and others 

noted above 

1,000 5,000 15,000 

 (a) Disintegrations per minute per 100 square centimeters Source: DOE (2004c) 

 (b) Averaged over an area of not more than 1 square meter 

 (c) Applicable to an area of not more than 100 cm2
Radiological Dose Assessment

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 8-5 

8.1.7 Total Offsite Dose to the Public from all Pathways

DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment, establishes a radiation dose limit to a member 

of the general public from all possible pathways as a result of DOE facility operations. This limit is 100 mrem/yr 

(1 mSv/yr) over and above background radiation and includes the air transport pathway, ingestion pathway, and direct 

exposure pathway. For 2007, the only possible pathways of public exposure to man-made radionuclides from current 

or past NTS activities included the air transport pathway, the ingestion of game animals, and exposure to property 

containing radioactive material. The doses from these pathways are combined below to present an estimate of the 

total 2007 dose to the maximally exposed individual (MEI) (see Glossary, Appendix B) residing off site. 

The dose estimate for an offsite MEI from radionuclides in air is expected to be no greater than 1.9 mrem/yr 

(0.019 mSv) (see Section 3.1.5). If the offsite MEI is assumed to eat a pronghorn antelope from Area 5, this 

individual may receive an estimated additional 0.091 mrem/yr (0.00091 mSv/yr) dose (see Table 8 -1). If the offsite 

MEI is also assumed to be the individual spending 112 days next to the equipment containing radioactive material (see 

Section 8.1.6), this individual may receive an additional 0.2 mrem (0.002 mSv). The total CEDE to this hypothetical 

MEI would be 2.19 mrem/yr (0.022 mSv/yr) (Table 8-3). The total dose of 2.19 mrem/yr is 2.19 percent of the 

DOE limit of 100 mrem/yr and about 0.6 percent of the total dose the MEI receives from natural background 

radiation (340 mrem/yr) (Figure 8-2). 

Table 8-3. Estimated radiological dose to a hypothetical maximally exposed member of the 

general public from 2007 NTS operations 

 Dose to MEI 

Pathway (mrem/yr) (mSv/yr) 

Percent of DOE 

100-mrem/yr Limit 

Air (a) 1.9 0.019 1.9 

Water (b) 0 0 0 

Wildlife ( c) 0.091 0.00091 0.091 

Property Containing Radioactive Material (d) 0.2 0.002 0.2 

Direct (d) 0 0 0 

All Pathways 2.19 0.022 2.19 

(a) Based on maximum observed annual average concentrations at compliance stations on the NTS, 2007 (Section 3.1.5) 

(b) Based on all offsite groundwater sampling in 2006 (Sections 4.1 and 5.2) 

(c) Assumes that the MEI consumes a pronghorn antelope from Area 5 (Table 8-1) 

(d) Based on 2007 property release tracking (Section 8.1.6) 

(e) Based on 2007 gamma radiation monitoring data (Section 5.0) 

 

Natural background radiation consists of cosmic radiation, terrestrial radiation, radiation from radionuclides (primarily 

potassium-40 [40K]) within the composition of the human body, and radiation from the inhalation of naturally 

occurring radon and its progeny. The cosmic and terrestrial components of background radiation shown in 

Figure 8-2 were estimated from the annual mean radiation exposure rate measured with a pressurized ion chamber 

(PIC) at Indian Springs by the CEMP (101 milliroentgens per year [mR/yr], see Table 6-4 in Section 6.0). The 

radiation exposure in air measured by the PIC in units of mR/yr is approximately equivalent to the unit of mrem/yr 

for tissue. The portion of the background dose from the internally deposited, naturally occurring radionuclides, and 

from the inhalation of radon and its daughters shown in Figure 8-2 were estimated as 40 mrem/yr and 200 mrem/yr, 

respectively, using the approximations by the National Council on Radiation Protection (NCRP) (NCRP, 1996). 
Radiological Dose Assessment

8-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

0

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

0.9

1

1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

Year

person-rem/yr

29.4%

11.7% 58.3%

0.6%

Dose from cosmic and

terrestrial radiation at 

Indian Springs, 101 mrem/y

Dose from natural

radionuclides in body,

40 mrem/yr

Dose from inhalation of

decay products from natural

radon, 200 mrem/yr

Dose from NTS emissions,

consumption of wildlife,

& property containing 

radioactive material,

2.19 mrem/yr

Figure 8-1. Comparison of radiation dose to the MEI from the NTS and natural background (percent of total) 

8.1.8 Collective Population Dose 

The collective population dose to residents within 80 km (50 mi) of the NTS emission sources was not estimated in 

2007 because this assessment depends upon CAP88-PC estimations which were not calculated. The collective 

population dose has been below 0.6 person-rem/yr for the period 1992 to 2004 (Figure 8-3). The DOE approved the 

discontinuance of reporting collective population dose because it is so low for the NTS. The DOE recommended, 

however, that the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office should 

consider reporting it once again if ever it exceeds 1.0 person-rem/yr (DOE, 2004d). 

Figure 8-2. Collective population dose within 80 km of NTS emission sources from 1992 to 2004 
Radiological Dose Assessment

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 8-7 

8.2 Dose to Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota 

DOE Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program, requires DOE facilities to evaluate the potential impacts of 

radiation exposure to biota in the vicinity of DOE activities. DOE Standard DOE-STD-1153-2002, A Graded 

Approach for Evaluating Radiation Doses to Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota (DOE, 2002b), was developed by DOE’s Biota 

Dose Assessment Committee to assist in such an evaluation. The following radiological dose limits were established 

(DOE, 2002b). Dose rates equal to or less than these are expected to have no direct, observable effect on plant or 

animal reproduction: 

• 1 rad/d (0.01 grays per day [Gy/d]) for aquatic animals 

• 1 rad/d (0.01 Gy/d) for terrestrial plants 

• 0.1 rad/d (1 milligrays per day [mGy/d]) for terrestrial animals 

The goal for the NTS biota dose assessment component of radiological monitoring is to determine if the established 

dose limits shown above are exceeded at the NTS using the graded approach for dose evaluation described in 

DOE Standard DOE-STD-1153-2002. The standard also provides concentration values for radionuclides in soil, 

water, and sediment that are to be used as a guide for determining if biota are potentially receiving radiation doses that 

exceed the limits. These concentrations are called the Biota Concentration Guide (BCG) values. They are defined as 

the minimum concentration of a radionuclide that would cause dose limits to be exceeded using very conservative 

uptake and exposure assumptions. 

The graded approach is a three-step process consisting of a data assembly step, a general screening step, and an 

analysis step. The analysis step consists of site-specific screening, site-specific analysis, and site-specific biota dose 

assessment. The following information is required by the graded approach: 

• Identification of terrestrial and aquatic habitats on the NTS that have radionuclides in soil, water, or sediment 

• Identification of terrestrial and aquatic biota on the NTS that occur in contaminated habitats and which are at 

risk of exposure 

• Measured or calculated radionuclide concentrations in soil, water, and sediment in contaminated habitats on the 

NTS that can be compared to BCG values to determine the potential for exceeding biota dose limits 

• Measured radionuclide concentrations in NTS biota, soil, water, and sediment in contaminated habitats on the 

NTS to estimate site-specific dose to biota 

A comprehensive biota dose assessment for the NTS using the graded approach was reported in the Nevada Test Site 

Environmental Report 2003 (DOE, 2004b). This dose assessment demonstrated that the potential radiological dose to 

biota on the NTS was not likely to exceed dose limits. No data exist to suggest that NTS surface contamination 

conditions have changed; therefore, the terrestrial biota dose evaluation conclusion remains the same for 2007. 

8.2.1 2007 Site-Specific Biota Dose Assessment 

Most of the graded approach for assessing dose to biota is based on radionuclide concentrations in soil, water, and 

sediment. The site-specific biota dose assessment phase, however, centers on the actual collection and analysis of 

biota. In 2007, animal and plant samples were collected from the known contaminated E Tunnel Ponds site and from 

the Area 3 and Area 5 Radioactive Waste Management Sites (RWMSs) (see Figure 7-1). Sampling methods and 

radionuclide concentrations in these samples are presented in Section 7.0. To obtain a predicted dose to biota at these 

sites, the RESRAD-BIOTA, Version 1.21 computer model (DOE, 2004e) was used. Input to the model included the 

average concentrations of radionuclides in soil, as determined by 2007 samples, and the maximum measured 

concentrations in animals and plants sampled from the monitoring sites (see Tables 7-2 and 7-3). Internal dose is 

calculated using measured concentrations in biota tissue, and external dose is predicted from the average soil 

concentrations. 
Radiological Dose Assessment

8-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Dose to biota at sites monitored in 2007 ranged from 0.000014 to 0.00019 rad/d for plants and from 0.000010 to 

0.00016 rad/d for animals (Table 8-4). At the Area 3 RWMS, external dose accounted for 62 to 78 percent of the 

total dose to biota and this was dominated by europium-152 (an activation product from atmospheric testing) in the 

soil which was not present at the other monitored sites. 3H accounted for about 79 percent of the dose to biota at the 

E Tunnel Ponds and Area 5 RWMS. The total estimated dose rates are less than 0.2 percent of the dose limits for 

terrestrial plants and animals. 

 Table 8-4. Site-specific dose assessment for terrestrial plants and animals sampled in 2007 

 Estimated Radiological Dose (rad/d) 

 To Plants(a) To Animals 

Location Internal External Total Internal External Total 

E Tunnel Ponds 0.000099 0.000091 0.00019 0.000073 0.000091 0.00016 

Area 3 RWMS 0.0000053 0.0000086 0.000014 0.0000015 0.0000086 0.000010 

Area 5 RWMS 0.000021 0.0000057 0.000027 0.000021 0.0000057 0.000027 

DOE Dose Limit: 1 0.1 

 (a) For information on plants and animals sampled, see Section 7.0 

8.2.2 Environmental Impact 

NTS related radionuclides in the environments do not contribute significant dose to the public or biota. Worst case 

dose to the MEI for 2007 was only 2.19 percent of limits set to protect human health. Dose to biota at NTS sites 

monitored during 2007 were much less than 1 percent of dose limits set to protect plant and animal populations. 

Based on the low potential doses from NTS radionuclides, impacts from those radionuclides are expected to be 

negligible. 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 9-1 

9.0 Waste Management and Environmental Restoration 

Several federal and state regulations govern the safe management, storage, and disposal of radioactive, hazardous, and 

solid wastes generated or received on the Nevada Test Site (NTS) for the purpose of protecting the environment and 

the public (see Section 2.4). This section describes both the waste management and environmental restoration 

operations conducted under the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site 

Office (NNSA/NSO) Environmental Management Program and summarizes the activities performed in 2007 to meet 

all environmental/public safety regulations. The goals of the program are shown below. The compliance measures 

and actions tracked and taken to meet the program goals are also listed. 

9.1 Radioactive Waste Management 

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Order 435.1, Radioactive Waste Management, requires that DOE radioactive waste 

management activities be systematically planned, documented, executed, and evaluated. Radioactive waste is managed 

to protect the public, the environment, and workers from exposure to radiation from radioactive materials and to 

comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations; Executive Orders; and DOE directives. The 

major tasks within Radioactive Waste Management include: 

• Verifying that NTS waste acceptance criteria are met for waste received 

• Characterization of LLW and LLMW that has been generated by the DOE within the State of Nevada 

• Disposal of LLW and LLMW at the Radioactive Waste Management Complex (RWMC) consisting of the Area 3 

Radioactive Waste Management Site (RWMS) and the Area 5 RWMS (the Area 3 RWMS is currently not being 

utilized but is being maintained for future use, as needed) 

• Characterization, visual examination, and repackaging of legacy TRU waste at the Waste Examination Facility 

(WEF) at the RWMC 

• Loading of legacy TRU waste at the Area 5 RWMS for shipment to either the WIPP or INL 

Waste Management and 

Environmental Restoration Goals Compliance Measures/Actions 

Manage and safely dispose of the following wastes 

generated by NNSA/NSO and the U.S. Department of 

Defense (DoD) operations: 

 Low-level radioactive waste (LLW) 

 Low-level radioactive mixed waste (LLMW) 

 Hazardous waste (HW) 

Continue to characterize, inspect, repackage, load, and 

ship transuranic (TRU) wastes stored on an interim 

basis at the NTS to either the Waste Isolation Pilot 

Plant (WIPP) in Carlsbad, New Mexico or to the Idaho 

National Laboratory (INL). 

Characterize and remediate historic sites contaminated 

by NNSA/NSO testing activities. 

Manage and safely dispose of solid/sanitary wastes 

generated by NNSA/NSO.

Completion/maintenance of documents required for a 

Class II Nuclear Facility Establishment of Waste 

Acceptance criteria for radioactive wastes received for 

disposal/storage 

Volume of disposed LLW 

Volume of stored nonradioactive hazardous waste 

Volume of disposed LLMW 

Weight of approved explosive ordnance wastes detonated 

Vadose zone monitoring 

Groundwater monitoring 

Site characterization, remediation, closure, and postclosure site monitoring 

Weight and volume of solid waste disposed 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

9-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

9.1.1 Maintenance of Key Documents 

Table 9-1 lists the key documents which must be current and in place at each RWMS for disposal operations to occur. 

In 2007, all of these key documents were maintained and three were revised. 

Table 9-1. Key documents required for Area 3 RWMS and Area 5 RWMS operations 

Disposal Authorization Statement 

 Disposal Authorization Statement for Area 5 RWMS, December 2000 

 Disposal Authorization Statement for Area 3 RWMS, October 1999 

Performance Assessment 

 Addendum 2 to Performance Assessment for Area 5 RWMS, Revision 2.1, September 2005 

 Performance Assessment/Composite Analysis for Area 3 RWMS, Revision 2.1, October 2000 

Composite Analysis 

 Composite Analysis for Area 5 RWMS, September 2001 

 Performance Assessment/Composite Analysis for Area 3 RWMS, Revision 2.1, October 2000 

NTS Waste Acceptance Criteria 

 NTS Waste Acceptance Criteria, Revision 6-02, October 2006 

Integrated Closure and Monitoring Plan 

 

Integrated Closure and Monitoring Plan for the Area 3 and 5 RWMSs, June 2005 

Closure Plan for the Area 3 RWMS at the NTS, September 2007 

Auditable Safety Analysis 

 Documented Safety Analysis for the NTS Area 5 RWMC, Revision 3, November 2007 

 Documented Safety Analysis for the NTS Area 3 RWMS, Revision 2, March 2006 

 Technical Safety Requirements for the Area 5 RWMC LLW Activities, Revision 5, October 2007 

 Technical Safety Requirements for the Area 5 RWMC TRU Waste Activities, Revision 5, October 2007 

 

Technical Safety Requirements for the Area 3 RWMS, Revision 2, March 2006 

Authorization Agreement for Area 5 RWMC, January 2007 

9.1.2 Characterization of LLW and LLMW 

Waste Generator Services (WGS) characterizes LLW and LLMW generated by the DOE within Nevada, primarily at 

the NTS. Characterization is performed utilizing either knowledge of the generating process or sampling and analysis. 

Following the characterization of a waste stream, a Waste Profile is completed for approval by an appropriate disposal 

facility. The Waste Profile delineates the pedigree of the waste, including but not limited to a description of the waste 

generating process, physical and chemical characteristics, radioactive isotopes and their quantities, and detailed 

packaging information. WGS then packs and ships approved waste streams in accordance with U.S. Department of 

Transportation requirements to either the Area 3 or Area 5 RWMS or to an offsite treatment, storage, and disposal 

facility. 

In 2007, LLW and MW were characterized by WGS for the following general waste stream categories: 

• Lead Solids • Compactable Trash 

• Sealed Sources • Contaminated Soils 

• Miscellaneous Debris • Contaminated Liquids 

• Depleted Uranium • Lead Soils 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 9-3 

9.1.3 Disposal of LLW and LLMW 

The RWMC operates as a Category II Nuclear Facility. The RWMC, which includes the Area 3 and Area 5 RWMSs, 

is designed and operated to perform three functions: 

• Dispose of LLW and LLMW from NNSA/NSO activities performed on and off the NTS and from offsite 

generators located in the State of Nevada. 

• Dispose of DOE LLW from around the DOE complex, primarily from the cleanup of sites associated with the 

manufacture of weapons components. 

• Dispose of LLMW from around the DOE complex. 

All generators of waste streams must first request to dispose of waste, submit a request to NNSA/NSO requesting to 

ship waste to the NTS for disposal, submit profiles characterizing specific waste streams, meet the NTS Radioactive 

Waste Acceptance Criteria, and receive programmatic approval from NNSA/NSO. The NNSA/NSO assesses and 

predicts the long-term performance of LLW disposal sites by conducting a Performance Assessment (PA) and a 

Composite Analysis (CA). A PA is a systematic analysis of the potential risks posed by a waste disposal site to the 

public and to the environment. A CA is an assessment of the risks posed by all wastes disposed in a LLW disposal 

site and by all other sources of residual contamination that may interact with the disposal site. The RWMC receives 

LLW generated within the DOE complex from numerous DOE sites across the United States, LLW from DoD sites 

that carry a national security classification, and LLMW generated within the DOE complex for disposal. 

The Area 5 RWMS includes 81 hectares (ha) (200 acres [ac]) of existing and proposed disposal cells for burial of both 

LLW and LLMW, and approximately 202 ha (500 ac) of land available for future radioactive disposal cells. Waste 

disposal at the Area 5 RWMS has occurred in a 37 ha (92 ac) portion of the site since the early 1960s. This part of the 

Area 5 RWMS (commonly referred to as the “92-Acre Area”) consists of 31 disposal cells (pits and trenches) and 13 

Greater Confinement Disposal (GCD) boreholes (listed below). This site is used for disposal of waste in drums, soft 

sided containers, large cargo containers, and boxes. The 92-Acre Area is expected to be filled and closed by 2011, and 

new cells extending to the north and west are expected to close by 2027. LLW and LLMW disposal services are 

expected to continue at Area 5 RWMS as long as the DOE complex requires the disposal of wastes from the weapons 

program. Disposal services for offsite LLMW will continue through November 2010 or until a total volume of 20,000 

cubic meters is received, whichever occurs first. 

 31 Disposal Cells at Area 5 RWMS: 13 GCD Boreholes at Area 5 RWMS: 

6 active which receive standard LLW 4 inactive (open but have not received any waste) 

1 active and permitted to receive asbestiform LLW (P06U) 4 closed containing TRU waste 

1 active and permitted by the state to receive LLMW (P03U) 5 closed containing LLW 

11 operationally closed containing LLW 

11 cells operationally closed containing LLW and LLMW 

 (Corrective Action Unit [CAU] 111) 

1 operationally closed containing asbestiform LLW (P07U) 

Disposal operations at the Area 3 RWMS began in the late 1960s. The Area 3 RWMS consists of seven craters 

making up five disposal cells. Each subsidence crater was created by an underground weapons test. Until July 1, 

2006, when the site was placed into inactive status, the site was used for disposal of bulk LLW waste, such as soils or 

debris, and waste in large cargo containers. The site consists of the following seven craters: 

 3 Disposal Cells (Inactive Status): 2 Closed Cells: 2 Undeveloped Cells: 

 U-3ah/at U-3ax/bl (CAU 110) U-3az 

 U-3bh U-3bg 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

9-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

In calendar year 2007, the Area 5 RWMS received shipments containing 26,017 cubic meters (m3) (918,796 cubic feet 

[ft3]) of LLW and 4,368 m3 (154,257 ft3) of LLMW for disposal. The majority of disposed LLW and LLMW were 

received from offsite generators. Only 2,553 m3 (90,182 ft3) of the LLW disposed in 2007 was generated onsite. 

Fiscal year 2007 (October 1–September 30) volumes of waste shipments are reported in DOE (2007a). 

In 2007, the Area 5 RWMS received and disposed of 0.19 tons (net weight) of asbestiform LLW in P06UA. 

9.1.4 TRU Waste Operations 

The TRU-Pad/Transuranic Pad Cover Building (TPCB) at the Area 5 RWMC is a Resource Conservation and 

Recovery Act (RCRA) Part B interim status facility designed for the safe storage of TRU waste generated by Lawrence 

Livermore National Laboratory and other small-quantity sites. The TPCB accepts TRU waste from NTS generators 

including the Joint Actinide Shock Physics Experimental Research facility. The TPCB stores TRU waste until it is 

characterized at the WEF at the Area 5 RWMC. Once characterized, the TRU waste is loaded at the mobile loading 

unit for shipment either to the WIPP at Carlsbad, New Mexico, for disposal or to an interim site for further 

characterization. Current agreements between NNSA/NSO and WIPP plan for TRU waste shipments to be 

completed by September 2008. In 2007, TRU waste stored at the TPCB continued to be characterized, visually 

inspected, repackaged, and prepared for shipment. 

9.1.5 Assessments 

In 2007, assessments were conducted at the RWMC in accordance with National Security Technologies, LLC 

(NSTec), procedures. Schedules for management self-assessments (MSAs) are developed for the RWMC. In addition 

to the MSAs performed internally at the RWMC, assessments were performed periodically by other NSTec 

organizations, NNSA/NSO, and the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. The results of each assessment and any 

required corrective action(s) were logged for NNSA/NSO in the companywide issues tracking system known as 

CaWeb. 

9.1.6 Groundwater Monitoring for Mixed Waste Disposal Unit (Pit P03U) 

P03U is operated according to RCRA Interim Status standards for the disposal of mixed LLW. Title 40 Code of 

Federal Regulations (CFR) 265 (Groundwater Monitoring) Subpart F (40 CFR 265.92) requires groundwater 

monitoring to verify the performance of P03U to protect groundwater from buried radioactive wastes. Wells 

UE5 PW-1, UE5 PW-2, and UE5 PW-3 are monitored for this purpose; these wells comprise 3 of the 14 onsite 

monitoring wells sampled periodically for radionuclide analyses of groundwater (see Section 4.1.7). Investigation 

levels (ILs) for five indicators of groundwater contamination (Table 9-2) were established by NNSA/NSO and the 

Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) for these three wells in 1998. Further groundwater analyses 

will be required if the results from all replicate samples exceed a parameter’s IL. None of the samples collected semiannually from the wells had contaminant levels above their ILs (Table 9-2). General water chemistry parameters are 

also monitored; all sample analysis results are presented in NSTec (2008a). Table 4-4 of Section 4.1.7 presents the 

tritium results for UE5 PW-1, UE5 PW-2, and UE5 PW-3. 

Table 9-2. Results of groundwater monitoring of UE5 PW-1, UE5 PW-2, and UE PW-3 in 2007 

Parameter Investigation Level (IL) Sample Levels 

pH < 7.6 or > 9.2 S.U.(a) 8.09 to 8.44 S.U. 

Specific conductance (SC) 0.440 mmhos/cm(b) 0.330 to 0.390 mmhos/cm 

Total organic carbon (TOC) 1 mg/L <0.5 to 0.85 mg/L 

Total organic halides (TOX) 50 μg/L(c) < 5.2 μg/L 

Tritium (3H) 2,000 pCi/L(d) -16.0 to -2.61 pCi/L 

(a) S.U. = standard unit(s) (for measuring pH) (b) mmhos/cm = millimhos per centimeter Source: NSTec (2008a) 

(c) μg/L = microgram(s) per liter (d) pCi/L = picocuries per liter 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 9-5 

9.1.7 Vadose Zone Monitoring 

Monitoring of the vadose zone (unsaturated zone above the water table) is conducted at the RWMC to demonstrate 

(1) that the PA assumptions at the RWMSs are valid regarding the hydrologic conceptual models used, including soil 

water contents, and upward and downward flux rates and (2) that there is negligible infiltration of precipitation into 

zones of buried waste at the RWMSs. Vadose zone monitoring (VZM) offers many advantages over groundwater 

monitoring, including detecting potential problems long before groundwater resources would be impacted, allowing 

corrective actions to be made early, and being less expensive than groundwater monitoring. All VZM conducted in 

2007 continued to demonstrate that there is negligible infiltration of precipitation into zones of buried waste at the 

RWMC and that the performance criteria of the waste disposal cells are being met to prevent contamination of 

groundwater and the environment. A few components of the VZM monitoring program implemented in 2007 are 

presented below. For more details on the program refer to the Nevada Test Site 2007 Waste Management Monitoring 

Report Area 3 and Area 5 Radioactive Waste Management Sites (NSTec, 2008b). 

9.1.7.1 Area 3 RWMS Drainage Lysimeter Facility 

In December 2000, a Drainage Lysimeter Facility was constructed immediately northwest of the U-3ax/bl disposal 

unit at the Area 3 RWMS. The facility consists of eight cylindrical drainage lysimeters, each 3.1 m (10.0 ft) in diameter 

and 2.4 m (8.0 ft) deep. Each lysimeter is filled with native soil and packed to mimic the U-3ax/bl soil cover. Each 

lysimeter has eight time-domain reflectometry (TDR) probes to measure moisture content depth profiles paired with 

eight heat dissipation probes to measure soil water potential depth profiles. Measured water contents at the bottom 

of the lysimeters and gravity drainage from the lysimeters provide an indirect measure of potential drainage from the 

U-3ax/bl soil cover. The lysimeter facility was constructed to fulfill data needs including reducing uncertainty in the 

expected performance of monolayer-evapotranspiration closure covers under various surface vegetation treatments 

and climatic change scenarios such as increased rainfall. 

There are three surface vegetation treatments subject to two climate treatments on the lysimeters. The three surface 

vegetation treatments are bare soil; natural plant recolonization (primarily by invader species Salsola tragus [prickly 

Russian thistle], Halogeton glomeratus [halogeton], and Sisymbrium alitissimum [tumblemustard]); and revegetation with 

former plant community species (primarily Atriplex confertifolia [shadscale], Krascheninnikovia lanata [winterfat], Ephedra 

nevadensis [Nevada ephedra], and Achnatherum hymenoides [Indian ricegrass]). The bare soil lysimeters mimic operational 

waste covers, the invader species lysimeters mimic operational waste covers that are not maintained, and revegetation 

lysimeters mimic final closure covers. The climate treatments are natural precipitation and three times the amount of 

natural precipitation. The increased precipitation lysimeters receive natural precipitation and are irrigated at a rate 

equal to two times natural precipitation. 

No drainage has ever occurred from any of the four non-irrigated lysimeters. After a period of heavy precipitation in 

the fall of 2004 and the spring of 2005, there was drainage from every irrigated lysimeter, but the vegetated lysimeters 

had much less drainage than the bare soil lysimeter. Measured volumetric water content data confirm that vegetation 

effectively removes moisture from the lysimeters, helping prevent deep percolation of infiltrated precipitation. 

9.1.7.2 Area 5 RWMS Weighing Lysimeter Facility 

The Area 5 Weighing Lysimeter Facility consists of two precision weighing lysimeters located about 400 m 

(0.25 miles) southwest of the Area 5 RWMS. Each lysimeter consists of a 2 x 4 m (6.6 x 13 ft) by 2 m (6.6 ft) deep 

steel box filled with soil. The load cells in each lysimeter can measure approximately 0.1 millimeters (0.004 inches 

[in.]) of precipitation or evapotranspiration. One lysimeter is vegetated with native plant species at the approximate 

density of the surrounding desert, and one lysimeter is kept bare to simulate operational waste covers at the Area 5 

RWMS. The load cells have been monitored continuously since March 1994, providing an accurate dataset of the 

surface water balance at the Area 5 RWMS. 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

9-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

The weighing lysimeter data represent a simplified water balance: the change in soil water storage is equal to 

precipitation minus evaporation on bare lysimeters, or precipitation minus evapotranspiration on vegetated lysimeters. 

The water balance is simplified because no drainage can occur through the solid bottoms of the lysimeters and 

because a 2.5 centimeter (cm) (1 in.) lip around the edge of the lysimeters prevents run-on and runoff. No water has 

ever accumulated at the bottom of the vegetated lysimeter. Heavy precipitation and low evaporation rates during the 

period from October 2004 to February 2005 combined with initially higher water contents, resulted in water accumulating at the bottom of the bare lysimeter starting in March 2005. Long-term numerical simulations (30 years) using a 

unit gradient bottom boundary were used to determine the amount of drainage that would have occurred if water 

could drain from the lysimeters. These simulations indicate that an average of 1.0 cm per year of water reaches the 

bottom of the bare lysimeter and that essentially no water reaches the bottom of the vegetated lysimeter (Desotell et 

al., 2006). 

9.1.7.3 RWMS Waste Cover Automated Monitoring 

Automated monitoring systems are installed in the operational covers on Pits P03U, P04U, and P05U; the floor of 

P05U underneath the waste; and the vegetated closure cover on U-3ax/bl. These monitoring systems measure 

moisture content depth profiles with TDR probes. The system at P05U also has heat dissipation probes to measure 

water potential depth profiles. The precipitation events, beginning in October 2004, infiltrated into the operational 

covers of Pits P03U, P04U, and P05U, and percolated below the deepest probes at 180 cm (71 in.) in March 2005. 

This moisture is below the range of substantial surface evaporation, and the observed gradual drying at these locations 

is most likely due to downward percolation. This is the deepest observed moisture percolation in the operational 

covers. Precipitation only percolated to 152 cm (60 in.) in the vegetated U-3ax/bl closure cover and was removed to 

the atmosphere by evapotranspiration in six months. The measurements in the floor of P05U do not show any 

evidence of water movement.

9.1.7.4 RWMS Supplemental Automated Monitoring 

Additional automated data-acquisition stations are maintained to provide ancillary data in support of the more direct 

monitoring of RWMS disposal units and the lysimeters in Areas 3 and 5. These stations include meteorological 

towers that continuously measure precipitation, air temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, barometric 

pressure, and solar radiation. 

9.1.7.5 Gas-phase Tritium Monitoring 

Tritium monitoring is conducted via soil gas sampling at Well GCD-05U, one of the 13 GCD boreholes at the Area 5 

RWMS. Radioactive wastes were buried in this 3 m (10 ft) diameter borehole from 36 to 20 m (119 to 65 ft) below 

the surface. The borehole was then backfilled with clean soil. Monitoring provides a direct measure of changes in 

tritium activity with depth due to degradation of waste containers, advection, and diffusion. The 17-year trend in 

results indicates that upward migration of tritium through the soil from the buried waste is extremely slow. The 

tritium concentrations from sample ports adjacent to the buried waste at depths of 20, 26, 33, and 36 m (65, 85, 110, 

and 119 ft) have increased by a factor of three since 1990, with the highest concentration of 381 microcuries per cubic 

meter (μCi/m3) of soil gas measured at 26 m (85 ft) in September 2001. Tritium concentrations have remained 

constant and low at about 0.01 μCi/m3 in soil gas samples taken above the tritium source at depths of 3, 6, 9, and 

12 m (10, 20, 30, and 40 ft). 

9.1.7.6 Radon Flux 

Radon flux measurements were taken on the U-3ax/bl cover at the Area 3 RWMS and on the P01U cover at the 

Area 5 RWMS during 2007. Electrets inserted in domes (Rad Elec, Inc.) measure radon flux from the ground. 

Radon flux measurements from the covers are similar to those from undisturbed or control locations. 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 9-7 

9.2 Hazardous Waste Management 

Hazardous wastes (HW) (see Glossary, Appendix B) regulated under RCRA are generated at the NTS from a broad 

range of activities including onsite laboratories, paint shops, vehicle maintenance, communications and photo 

operations, and environmental restoration of historic contaminated sites (see Section 9.3). The RCRA Part B Permit 

(NEV HW0021) regulates the operation of three HW facilities on the NTS: P03U at the Area 5 RWMS, the 

Hazardous Waste Storage Unit (HWSU) in Area 5, and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit (EODU) in Area 11. 

Quarterly reports are submitted to the State of Nevada which document the weight of HW received each quarter at 

each of these HW units for management (i.e., for disposal, temporary storage, or detonation). Quarterly fees are paid 

to the state based on the weights of HW received. Also, Part II.K.2 of the permit requires preparation of a U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency Biennial Hazardous Waste Report of all hazardous waste volumes generated at the 

NTS and at the North Las Vegas Facility (NLVF) during a year. This report is prepared for odd-numbered years, and 

the 2007 calendar year report was prepared and submitted to NDEP on February 28, 2008. 

9.2.1 Pit P03U 

Pit P03U began receiving LLMW from offsite DOE facilities in April 2006. P03U received a total of 2,490 tons in 

2007 (Table 9-3). 

9.2.2 HWSU and Waste Accumulation Areas 

The HWSU is a pre-fabricated, rigid steel framed, roofed shelter which is permitted to store a maximum of 

61,600 liters (16,280 gallons) of approved waste at a time. HW generated at NSTec restoration sites off the NTS 

(e.g., at the Tonopah Test Range [TTR]) or generated at the NLVF are direct-shipped to approved disposal facilities. 

HW generated on the NTS are also direct-shipped if the sites generate bulk, non-packaged HW which is not accepted 

at the HWSU for storage. HW would also be direct-shipped in the unlikely case when the waste volume capacity of 

the HWSU is approaching its permitted limits. Satellite Accumulation Areas (SAAs) and 90-day Hazardous Waste 

Accumulation Areas (HWAAs) are used at the NTS for the temporary storage of HW prior to shipment off site or to 

the HWSU. 

In 2007, a total of 23.84 tons of HW was managed at the HWSU that included treatment, storage, and disposal 

activities (Table 9-3). The HW managed at the HWSU in 2007 included drums of light ballasts and debris contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) totaling 1.06 tons (see Section 10.1). In 2007, no HW was directshipped from NTS SAAs, but a total of 32.91 tons of HW were direct-shipped off site from HWAAs (Table 9-3). No 

storage limits were exceeded. Quarterly reports of applicable waste quantities were submitted on time to NDEP. 

9.2.3 EODU 

Conventional explosive wastes are generated at the NTS from tunnel operations, the NTS firing range, the resident 

national laboratories, and other activities. The permit allows NNSA/NSO to treat explosive ordnance wastes at the 

EODU by open detonation of no more than 45.4 kilograms (100 pounds) of approved waste at a time, not to exceed 

one detonation event per hour. In 2007, no explosive ordnance were detonated at the EODU (Table 9-3). 

 Table 9-3. Hazardous waste managed at the NTS in 2007 

Permitted Unit Total Waste Managed (tons) (a)

P03U 2,490 

HWSU 23.84 

HWSU – PCB Waste 1.06 

HWAAs 32.91 (b) 

EODU 0 

(a) The permitted storage limit for LLMW at P03U is 20,000 m3 (706,293 ft3), and for HW at the HWSU, it is 61,600 liters 

(16,280 gallons). However, the reporting units are tons, by which quarterly fees to the State of Nevada are based. 

(b) Tons shipped directly off site from HWAAs. 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

9-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

9.3 Underground Storage Tank (UST) Management 

By 1998, the NTS UST program met all regulatory compliance schedules for the reporting, upgrading, or removal of 

documented USTs. The NNSA/NSO operates one deferred UST and three excluded USTs at the Device Assembly 

Facility (DAF). The NNSA/NSO also maintains a fully regulated UST at the Area 6 helicopter pad which is not in 

service. In 2007, NDEP inspected the deferred UST at the DAF and the fully regulated UST at the Area 6 Helipad. 

No deficiencies were noted at either location. 

9.4 Environmental Restoration - Remediation of Historic 

Contaminated Sites 

In April 1996, the DOE, DoD, and the State of Nevada entered into a Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order 

(FFACO) to address the environmental restoration of historic contaminated sites at the NTS, parts of TTR, parts of 

the Nellis Air Force Range (now known as the Nevada Test and Training Range), the Central Nevada Test Area, and 

the Project Shoal Area. These sites, known as Corrective Action Sites (CASs), may be contaminated with both 

radioactive and nonradioactive wastes. Appendix VI of the FFACO, as amended (February 2008), describes the 

strategy that will be employed to plan, implement, and complete environmental corrective actions at facilities where 

nuclear-related operations were conducted. Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture conducted most site characterization 

activities, while the NTS Management and Operating contractor (NSTec) conducted site restoration, soil remediation, 

and some facility decontamination and decommissioning activities in 2007. 

9.4.1 Corrective Actions 

The corrective action strategy is based on four steps: (1) identifying the CASs, (2) grouping the CASs into CAUs, 

(3) prioritizing the CAUs for funding and work, and (4) implementing the corrective action investigations (CAIs) 

and/or corrective actions, as applicable. CASs are broadly organized into the following four categories based on the 

source of contamination: 

• Industrial Sites – CASs located on the NTS and TTR where activities were conducted that supported nuclear 

testing activities 

• Underground Test Area (UGTA) Sites – CASs located where underground nuclear tests have resulted or might 

result in local or regional impacts to groundwater resources 

• Soil Sites – CASs where tests have resulted in extensive surface and/or shallow subsurface contamination 

• Nevada Off-Sites – Additional CASs associated with underground nuclear testing at the Project Shoal Area and 

the Central Nevada Test Area, located in northern and central Nevada, respectively 

Identifying CASs – The first step in the strategy is to identify CASs potentially requiring CAIs and/or corrective 

actions. As CASs are identified, a literature search may be completed and each CAS is verified on aerial photographs 

or in the field to confirm its location and site condition. A data repository has been created containing or referencing 

all information currently available for each CAS. 

Grouping CASs into CAUs – A CAU may have several CASs or only one. In addition to the four categories noted 

above, criteria for grouping CASs into CAUs include the following: 

• Potential source of contamination 

• Agency responsible for cleanup of the CAS 

• Function of the CAS and the nature of the contamination 

• Geographic proximity of CASs to one another 

• Potential for investigation or cleanup of grouped CASs to be accomplished within a similar time frame 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 9-9 

Implementing Corrective Action Investigations and/or Corrective Actions – When a CAU is assigned priority 

and funding, environmental restoration activities follow a formal work process beginning with a Data Quality 

Objectives (DQO) meeting between the NNSA/NSO, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, NDEP, and contractors. 

If existing information about the nature and extent of contamination at the CASs is insufficient to evaluate and select 

preferred corrective actions, a CAI will be conducted. A Corrective Action Investigation Plan (CAIP) is prepared that 

provides a conceptual model of the site and defines how the site is to be characterized in conformance with the DQO 

process. 

Site characterization is performed in the field and documented in a Corrective Action Decision Document (CADD). 

This document provides the information that either confirms or modifies the preliminary conceptual model. If 

suitable information is available to make a decision, a remedial action alternative is selected that best provides site 

closure. In some instances, additional site characterization may be required before the CADD can be prepared. 

If a site requires a closure action, a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is prepared that will implement the recommended 

remedial action/closure alternative. A CAP is composed of the following elements for site closure: a detailed scope of 

work, target field schedule, quality control measures, waste management strategy, design specifications/drawings 

(when applicable), verification sampling strategies (for clean closures), and other information necessary for satisfying 

the specific closure requirements. Some sites also require a Post-Closure Plan as the site or parts of the site are closed 

in place. Information on field inspections, types of monitoring, monitoring frequency, and maintenance/repairs are 

provided in an Annual Post-Closure Monitoring Report. 

Once the closure has been completed, a Closure Report (CR) is prepared. This report provides information on the 

scope of work performed, results of verification sampling, as-built drawings, waste management, and post-closure 

requirements for closed-in-place sites, etc. Some sites are closed under the Streamlined Approach for Environmental 

Restoration (SAFER) process identified in the FFACO. These sites typically have enough information available to 

remediate the site within a shorter duration. For such sites, a SAFER plan is prepared that will implement the plan 

for site closure. After closure, a SAFER closure report is prepared that documents the scope of work performed. 

The NDEP is a participant throughout the remediation process. The Community Advisory Board (CAB) is also kept 

informed by NNSA/NSO of the progress made. The Board’s comments are strongly considered before final 

prioritization of corrective actions. A public participation working group made up of representatives from DOE, 

DoD, the State of Nevada, and the CAB meets twice a year to discuss quarterly progress, upcoming environmental 

restoration activities, priority-setting activities established under the FFACO, and the level of public involvement 

required. 

Table 9-4 lists the CAUs for which some step of the site remediation process was completed in calendar year 2007. 

All 2007 milestones were met. A total of 114 CASs were closed, either under the SAFER process or the complex 

closure process. 

9.4.2 Post-Closure Monitoring and Inspections 

There are nine sites on the NTS for which remediation was indicated or completed under RCRA regulations prior to 

enactment of the FFACO. Eight have been closed and are referred to as historic RCRA closure units. For the ninth 

site, the Area 5 Retired Mixed Waste Pits and Trenches, the NDEP has determined that NNSA/NSO shall close the 

site (in the future) subject to the conditions of 40 CFR 265.310. Three of the eight RCRA closure units require no 

further post-closure monitoring (Area 23 Building 650 Leachfield, Area 6 Steam Cleaning Effluent Ponds, and Area 2 

U-2bu Subsidence Crater). Three of the eight closed units require quarterly site inspections (Area 6 Decon Pond 

[CAU 92], Area 3 U-3ax/bl Subsidence Crater [CAU 110], and Area 23 Hazardous Waste Trenches [CAU 112]), and 

two currently require semi-annual post-closure inspections (Area 2 Bitcutter Containment [CAU 90] and Area 3 U-3fi 

Injection Well [CAU 91]). VZM for the Area 3 U-3fi Injection Well and Area 23 Hazardous Waste Trenches is no 

longer conducted because the most recent monitoring results demonstrated continuing stable conditions at these sites. 

The one site still requiring VZM is CAU 110, the Area 3 U-3ax/bl Subsidence Crater. At this site, post-closure 

inspections are performed quarterly and consist of visual observations to check that the cover is intact. The U-3ax/bl 

Subsidence Crater cover is designed to limit infiltration into the disposal unit and is monitored using TDR soil water 

content sensors buried at various depths within the waste cover to provide water content profile data. The soil water 
9-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 Table 9-4. Environmental restoration activities conducted in 2007 CAU CAU Description Number of CASs Milestone Due Date Da

Subm

DOE Industrial Sites – Defense Project 536 Area 3 Release Site 1 Closure Report to State 09/30/07 08/0

540 Spill Sites 9 Closure Report to State 02/28/07 10/1555 Septic Systems 5 CADD/CR to State 04/30/07 03/1556 Dry Wells and Surface Release Points 4 CAIP to State 03/31/07 02/1563 Septic Systems 4 CAIP to State 02/28/07 01/2565 Stored Samples 1 CADD/CR to State 01/11/08 12/1

Defense Threat Reduction Agency/DOE - Industrial Sites 383 Area 12 E-Tunnel Sites 3 CADD/CR to State 02/2

Defense Threat Reduction Agency - Industrial Sites 476 Area 12 T-Tunnel Muckpile 1 CADD/CR to State 05/2

477 Area 12 N-Tunnel Muckpile 1 CADD/CR to State 06/0478 Area 12 T-Tunnel Ponds 1 CADD/CR to State 05/2480 Area 12 N-Tunnel Ponds 1 CADD/CR to State 05/1482 Area 15 U15a/e Muckpiles and Ponds 3 CADD/CR to State 06/0504 16a-Tunnel Muckpile 4 CADD/CR to State 08/0

DOE Industrial Sites – Environmental Restoration Project (ERP) 117 Area 26 Pluto Disassembly Facility 1 SAFER Plan to State 09/30/07 09/2

118 Area 27 Super Kukla Facility 1 Closure Report to State 09/30/07 09/1121 Storage Tanks and Miscellaneous Sites 3 SAFER Plan to State 07/31/07 07/0124 Storage Tanks 5 SAFER Plan to State 10/31/07 04/0137 Waste Disposal Sites 8 CADD/CR to State 04/30/07 03/1139 Waste Disposal Sites 7 CAP to State 03/31/08 08/0139 Waste Disposal Sites 7 CADD to State 06/30/07 01/1151 Septic Systems and Discharge Area 8 CAP to State 05/31/07 03/0166 Storage Yards and Contaminated Materials 7 CAP to State 09/30/08 10/1166 Storage Yards and Contaminated Materials 7 CADD to State 10/31/07 03/2168 Area 25 & 26 Contaminated Materials & Waste Dumps 12 Closure Report to State 01/31/07 01/2177 Mud Pits and Cellars 12 Closure Report to State 04/30/07 02/1190 Contaminated Waste Sites 4 CAIP to State 01/31/07 12/1224 Decon Pad and Septic Systems 9 Closure Report to State 10/31/07 10/2234 Mud Pits, Cellars, and Mud Spills 12 CAIP to State 08/31/07 08/0300 Surface Release Areas 7 Closure Report to State 10/31/07 09/0484 Surface Debris, Waste Sites, and Burn Area (TTR) 6 Closure Report to State 09/30/07 09/2
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 9-11

Table 9-4. Environmental restoration activities conducted in 2007 (continued) 

CAU CAU Description 

Number of CASs Milestone 

Due Date 

Date Subm

DOE Industrial Sites – ERP cont. 

496 Buried Rocket Site - Antelope Lake (TTR) 1 Closure Letter Report to State 05/1516 Septic Systems and Discharge Points 6 Closure Report to State 06/30/07 04/1528 Polychlorinated Biphenyls Contamination 1 Closure Report to State 02/28/07 09/2537 Waste Sites 2 Closure Report to State 09/30/07 07/1538 Spill Sites 7 Closure Report to State 03/31/07 02/2542 Disposal Holes 8 CADD/CR to State 11/30/07 04/1543 Liquid Disposal Units 7 CAP to State 01/31/07 10/0543 Liquid Disposal Units 7 CAP Rev 1 to State 05/1545 Dumps, Waste Disposal Sites, and Buried Radioactive 

Materials 

8 CAIP to State 04/30/08 06/0

553 Areas 19, 20 Mud Pits and Cellars 4 Closure Report to State 09/30/07 08/2

DOE UGTA Sites 

97 Yucca Flat/Climax Mine 720 Submit Final Phase I Transport 

Parameters (SNJV, 2007a) 

07/02/07 06/1

97 Yucca Flat/Climax Mine 720 Submit Phase I Hydrology 

Documentation Package 

(SNJV, 2006a; 2006b) 

Addendum (SNJV, 2007b) 

07/01/06 06/2

99 Rainier/Shoshone 66 Submit Final Phase I 

Hydrostratigraphic Model 

(NSTec, 2007) 

03/30/07 03/2

101 Central Pahute Mesa 64 Submit Final Phase I Flow 

Model Report (SNJV, 2006c) 

Addendum (SNJV, 2007c) 

07/31/06 06/0

102 Western Pahute Mesa 18 Submit Final Phase I Flow 

Model Report (SNJV, 2006c) 

Addendum (SNJV, 2007c) 

07/31/06 06/0
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

9-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

content profile data are used to demonstrate whether the cover is performing as expected. An annual report of postclosure monitoring includes monthly precipitation data for the reporting period, an annual vegetation survey, and 

results of semi-annual subsidence surveys. The annual report is submitted to NDEP by the last day of August. 

All required VZM and inspections of the applicable RCRA closed sites were conducted in 2007 as specified by RCRA 

permit or by each site’s closure report. VZM results for the RCRA closure site CAU 110 indicated that surface water 

is not migrating into buried wastes. Annual reports were prepared for the 5 RCRA post closure sites and submitted to 

NDEP. 

The 41 CAUs for which physical inspections were conducted during the 2007 post-closure inspection period are: 

CAU 005 Landfills 

CAU 90 Area 2 Bitcutter Containment 

CAU 91 Area 3 U-3fi Injection Well 

CAU 92 Area 6 Decon Pond Facility 

CAU 110 Area 3 U-3ax/bl Subsidence Crater 

CAU 112 Area 23 Hazardous Waste Trenches 

CAU 137 Waste Disposal Sites 

CAU 140 Waste Dumps, Burn Pits, and Storage Area 

CAU 143 Area 25 Contaminated Waste Dumps 

CAU 165 Area 25 and 26 Dry Well and Washdown Areas 

CAU 168 Area 25 and Area 26 Contaminated Materials and Waste Dumps 

CAU 204 Storage Bunkers 

CAU 214 Bunkers and Storage Areas 

CAU 254 Area 25 Reactor Maintenance, Assembly, and Disassembly Decontamination Facility 

CAU 261 Area 25 Test Cell A Leachfield 

CAU 262 Area 25 Septic Systems and UDP 

CAU 271 Areas 25, 26, and 27 Septic Systems 

CAU 309 Area 12 Muckpiles 

CAU 322 Areas 1 and 3 Release Sites and Injection Wells 

CAU 333 U-3auS Disposal Site (not required until 2011) 

CAU 335 Area 6 Injection Well and Drain Pit 

CAU 339 Area 12 Fleet Operations Steam Cleaning Effluent 

CAU 342 Mercury Fire Training Pit 

CAU 357 Mud Pits and Waste Dump 

CAU 383 Area 12 E-Tunnel Sites 

CAU 400 Bomblet Pit and Five Points Landfill (TTR) 

CAU 404 Roller Coaster Lagoons and Trench (TTR) 

CAU 407 Roller Coaster RadSafe Area (TTR) 

CAU 417 Central Nevada Test Area -Surface 

CAU 423 Area 3 Underground Discharge Point, Building 0360 (TTR) 

CAU 424 Area 3 Landfill Complexes (TTR) 

CAU 426 Cactus Spring Waste Trenches (TTR) 

CAU 427 Area 3 Septic Waste Systems 2, 6 (TTR) 

CAU 453 Area 9 UXO Landfill (TTR) 

CAU 487 Thunderwell Site (TTR) 

CAU 528 Polychlorinated Biphenyls Contamination 

CAU 529 Area 25 Contaminated Materials 

CAU 542 Disposal Holes 

CAU 551 Area 12 Muckpiles 

CAU 552 Area 12 Muckpiles and Ponds 

CAU 554 Area 23 Release Sites 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 9-13 

9.5 Solid and Sanitary Waste Management 

9.5.1 Landfills

The NTS has three landfills for solid waste disposal that are regulated and permitted by the State of Nevada (see 

Table 2-11 for list of permits). No liquids, hazardous waste, or radioactive waste are accepted in these landfills. They 

include: 

• Area 6 Hydrocarbon Disposal Site – accepts hydrocarbon-contaminated wastes, such as soil and absorbents. 

• Area 9 U10c Solid Waste Disposal Site – designated for industrial waste such as construction and demolition 

debris. 

• Area 23 Solid Waste Disposal Site – accepts municipal-type wastes such as food waste and office waste. 

Regulated asbestos-containing material is also permitted in a special section. The permit allows disposal of no 

more than an average of 20 tons/day at this site. 

These landfills are designed, constructed, operated, maintained, and monitored in adherence to the requirements of 

their state-issued permits. The NDEP visually inspects the landfills and checks the records on an annual basis to 

ensure compliance with the permits. 

The vadose zone is monitored at two of the permitted sanitary landfills: the Area 6 Hydrocarbon Disposal Site and 

the Area 9 U10c Solid Waste Disposal Site. VZM is performed once annually in lieu of groundwater monitoring to 

demonstrate that contaminants from the landfills are not leaching into the groundwater. VZM in 2007 indicated that 

there was no soil moisture migration and, therefore, no waste leachate migration to the water table. 

The amount of waste disposed of in each solid waste landfill in 2007 is shown in Table 9-5. An average of 3.2 

tons/day was disposed at the Area 23 landfill, well within permit limits. State inspections of the three permitted 

landfills were conducted in May 2007. No out-of-compliance issues were noted. 

 Table 9-5. Quantity of solid wastes disposed in NTS landfills in calendar year 2007 

Metric Tons (Tons) of Waste 

Area 6 Hydrocarbon 

Disposal Site 

Area 9 U10c Solid Waste 

Disposal Site 

Area 23 Solid Waste 

Disposal Site 

600 (661) 5,778 (6,368) 591 (651) 

9.5.2 Sewage Lagoons 

The NTS also has two state-permitted sewage lagoons that were operated by NSTec Waste Management in 2007, as 

were the solid waste landfills. They are the Area 6 Yucca Lake and Area 23 Mercury lagoons. The operations and 

monitoring requirements for these sewage lagoons are specified by Nevada water pollution control regulations. 

Because of this, the discussion of their operations and compliance monitoring are presented in Section 4.2.3. 
Waste Management and Environmental Restoration

9-14 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

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 Hazardous Materials Control and Management

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 10-1 

10.0 Hazardous Materials Control and Management 

Hazardous materials used or stored on the Nevada Test Site (NTS) are controlled and managed through the use of a 

Hazardous Substance Inventory database. The NTS Management and Operating contractor and all other U.S. 

Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) subcontractors 

utilize this database if they use or store hazardous materials. They are required to comply with the operational and 

reporting requirements of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA); Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide 

Act (FIFRA); the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA); and the Nevada Chemical 

Catastrophe Act (see Section 2.5). Chemicals to be purchased are subject to a requisition compliance review process. 

Environmental Services (ES) personnel with National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec), reviewed each chemical 

purchase in 2007 to ensure that toxic chemicals and products were not purchased when less hazardous chemical 

substitutes were commercially available. Requirements and responsibilities for the use and management of 

hazardous/toxic chemicals were provided in company documents and were aimed at meeting the goals shown below. 

The reports or activities that are prepared or performed annually to document compliance with hazardous materials 

regulations are also listed below. 

10.1 TSCA Program 

There are no known pieces of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-containing electrical equipment (transformers, 

capacitors, or regulators) at the NTS; however, sometimes during demolition activities, old hydraulic systems are 

found to contain PCB liquids. The TSCA program consists mainly of properly characterizing, storing, and disposing 

of various PCB wastes generated through remediation activities and maintenance of fluorescent lights. The 

remediation waste is generated by NSTec and Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture at Corrective Action Sites during 

environmental restoration activities (see Section 9.4) and during maintenance activities and building decontamination 

and decommissioning activities performed by NSTec. These activities can generate PCB-contaminated fluids and 

bulk product waste containing PCBs. 

Waste classified as bulk product waste generated on the NTS by remediation and site operations can be disposed of 

on site in the U10c landfill with prior State of Nevada approval. PCB-containing light ballasts removed during normal 

maintenance can also go to an on site landfill, but when remediation or upgrade activities generate several ballasts, 

these must be disposed of off site at an approved PCB disposal facility. Soil and other materials contaminated with 

PCBs must also be sent off site for disposal. 

During 2007, 13 drums of PCB light ballasts and PCB-contaminated hydraulic fluid were generated from demolition 

and renovation activities and sent off site for disposal in three separate shipments. One onsite disposal of PCB Bulk 

Product Waste resulting from the demolition of the Super Kukla facility in Area 27 occurred in 2007. When PCB 

Hazardous Materials Control 

and Management Goals Compliance Activities/Reports 

Use of Hazardous Substance Inventory database

Annual TSCA report 

FIFRA management assessments

Annual EPCRA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) Report, Form R 

Annual Nevada Combined Agency (NCA) Report 

Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP)-Chemical 

Accident Prevention Program Annual Registration Form 

Minimize the adverse effects of improper 

use, storage, or management of 

hazardous/toxic chemicals. 

Ensure compliance with applicable federal 

and state environmental regulations related 

to hazardous materials. 

Use of electronic Hazardous Materials Notification System (known 

as HAZTRAK) for tracking the movements of such materials 
Hazardous Materials Control and Management

10-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

equipment or PCB fluids are managed during a calendar year, NNSA/NSO has been submitting an annual report to 

the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by July 1 of the following year. In 2003, NNSA/NSO determined 

that annual reports were not required to be sent to regulators since the NTS is not considered a commercial storer or 

disposer of PCBs. On March 13, 2008, an Annual Report was generated for PCB management activities during 

calendar year 2007, and may again be sent to outside regulators. 

There were no TSCA inspections by outside regulators performed at the NTS in 2007. 

10.2 FIFRA Program 

ES personnel performed the following oversight functions to ensure FIFRA compliance: (1) screened all purchase 

requisitions for restricted-use pesticides; (2) reviewed operating procedures for handling, storing, and applying 

pesticide products; and (3) conducted facility inspections for unauthorized pesticide storage/use. On the NTS, 

pesticides are applied under the direction of a State of Nevada certified applicator. This service was provided by Solid 

Waste Operations (SWO). SWO maintained appropriate Commercial Category (Industrial) certifications for applying 

restricted-use pesticides, but only non-restricted pesticides were used. Pesticide applications in food service facilities 

are subcontracted to state-certified vendors. 

SWO did not purchase any restricted-use pesticides during 2007. Training was provided to affected personnel. 

Certifications were kept current in 2007 for Industrial Category application(s) of restricted-use pesticides. Facility 

inspections were conducted and indicated that there were no restricted-use pesticides being used or stored in violation 

of federal/state requirements. 

10.3 EPCRA Program 

In response to the EPCRA requirements, all chemicals that are purchased are entered into a hazardous substance 

inventory database and assigned specific hazard classifications (e.g., corrosive liquid, flammable, diesel fuel). Annually, 

this database is updated to show the maximum amounts of chemicals that were present in each building at the NTS, 

the Non-Proliferation Test and Evaluation Complex, the North Las Vegas Facility (NLVF) (see Section A.1.4), and 

the Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL)-Nellis (see Section A.3.3). This information is then used to complete the NCA 

Report. This report satisfies EPCRA reporting requirements (Table 10-1). It provides information to the State of 

Nevada, community, and local emergency planning commissions on the maximum amount of any chemical, based on 

its hazard classification, present at any given time during the preceding year. This report also provides the 

commissions with new chemicals or chemical classes that were not previously on site. The State Fire Marshall then 

issues permits to store hazardous chemicals on the NTS, as well as at the RSL-Nellis and the NLVF. 

 Table 10-1. EPCRA compliance reporting at the NTS in 2007 

Section of the Act Activity Regulated Notification/Report Submitted per 

Applicable Requirement 

Section 302–303 Planning Notification NCA Report 

Section 304 Extremely Hazardous Substance 

Release Notification 

Not applicable (no releases occurred) 

Section 311–312 Material Safety Data Sheet/ 

Chemical Inventory 

NCA Report 

Section 313 TRI Reporting TRI Report 

The 2007 chemical inventory for NTS facilities was updated and submitted to the State of Nevada in the NCA Report 

on February 27, 2008. No accidental or unplanned release of an extremely hazardous substance occurred on the NTS 

in 2007. 
 Hazardous Materials Control and Management

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 10-3 

The hazardous substance inventory database is also used to complete the TRI Report, Form R. This report provides 

EPA and the State Emergency Response Commission information on any toxic chemical that enters the environment 

above a given threshold. It also provides these agencies with the amounts of toxic chemicals that are recycled. 

NNSA/NSO submitted this report for calendar year 2007 to EPA on June 24, 2008. Lead was the only listed toxic 

chemical released into the NTS environment in 2007 that was reportable (Table 10-2). The total amount of lead 

released into the air was 74 pounds (lb). Lead that is either recovered during site remediation activities or is excess to 

NTS operational needs (e.g., lead bricks, lead shielding) is sent off site for recycling or proper disposal. A total of 

1,775 lb was sent off site for recycling and 43,359 lb were sent off for disposal. 

 Table 10-2. EPCRA reportable releases of toxic chemicals in 2007 

Toxic Chemical Source Quantity (lb) 

Lead – solid Ammunition - 

Mercury Firing Range 

7,606 

Lead – air release Ammunition - 

Mercury Firing Range 

53 

Lead – air release Solder 21 

There were no EPCRA inspections by outside regulators performed at the NTS in 2007. 

HAZTRAK is a tracking system that monitors hazardous materials while they are in transit. When a truck 

transporting hazardous material enters the NTS, all information concerning the load is entered into the tracking 

system. Once the delivery is complete, the information provided at the time of entry is removed from the tracking 

system. 

10.4 Nevada Chemical Catastrophe Prevention Act 

If extremely hazardous substances (EHSs) are stored in quantities which exceed threshold quantities established by 

NDEP, then NNSA/NSO submits a report notifying the State of Nevada. During 2007, the Non-Proliferation Test 

and Evaluation Complex in Area 5 stored an EHS (nitrogen dioxide) in quantities which required state notification. A 

Nevada Chemical Accident Prevention Program Report was prepared regarding calendar year 2007 NTS operations 

and was submitted to NDEP on June 3, 2008. 
Hazardous Materials Control and Management

10-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 
Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 11-1 

11.0 Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization 

The U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) has 

pollution prevention and waste minimization (P2/WM) initiatives. These initiatives establish a process to reduce the 

volume and toxicity of waste generated by NNSA/NSO on the Nevada Test Site (NTS) and its satellite facilities. 

They also ensure that proposed methods of treatment, storage, and disposal of waste minimize potential threats to 

human health and the environment. These initiatives also address the requirements of several federal and state 

regulations applicable to operations on the NTS (see Section 2.7). The following information provides an overview of 

the P2/WM goals, major accomplishments during the reporting year, and a description of efforts undertaken by 

National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec), in 2007 to reduce the volume and toxicity of waste generated. 

11.1 P2/WM Goals and Components 

It is the priority of NNSA/NSO to minimize the generation, release, and disposal of pollutants to the environment by 

implementing cost-effective P2 technologies, practices, and policies. A commitment to P2 minimizes the impact on 

the environment, improves the safety of operations, improves energy efficiency, and promotes the sustainable use of 

natural resources. This commitment includes providing adequate administrative and financial materials on a 

continuing basis to ensure goals are achieved. When economically feasible, source reduction is the preferred method 

of handling waste, followed by reuse and recycling, treatment, and, as a last resort, landfill disposal. 

Source Reduction – Source reduction is the minimization or elimination of waste before it is generated by a project 

or operation. Examples of source reduction include chemical substitution, process modification, and segregation. 

NNSA/NSO’s Integrated Safety Management System requires that every project/operation address waste 

minimization issues during the planning phase and ensure that adequate funds are allocated to perform any identified 

waste minimization activities. 

To minimize the generation of waste, project managers are required to incorporate waste minimization into the 

planning phase of their projects. Waste-generating processes must be assessed to determine if the waste can be 

economically reduced or eliminated. Waste minimization activities that are determined to be cost-effective should be 

incorporated into the project plan and adequate funding allocated to ensure their implementation. 

Recycling – For wastes that are generated, an aggressive recycling program is maintained. Items recycled through the 

NNSA/NSO recycling program in 2007 included paper, cardboard, aluminum cans, toner cartridges, inkjet cartridges, 

used oil, food waste from the cafeteria, plastic, scrap metal, rechargeable batteries, lead-acid batteries, fluorescent light 

bulbs, mercury lamps, metal hydride lamps, and sodium lamps. 

An effective method for reuse is the coordination of the Material Exchange Program. Created in 1998, the Material 

Exchange Program diverts supplies, chemicals, and equipment from landfills. Unwanted chemicals, supplies, and 

equipment are made available through electronic mail or postings on the intranet Material Exchange Database so that 

individuals in need can obtain the items at no cost. These materials are destined for disposal, either as solid or hazardous waste, as a result of process modification, discontinued use, or shelf-life expiration. Rather than disposing of 

these items, the majority of them are provided to other employees for their intended purpose, thus avoiding disposal 

costs and costs for new purchases. If items are not placed with another user, they can be returned to the vendor for 

recycle/reuse, or given to other U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) sites, other government agencies, or local schools. 

Affirmative Procurement – As required by Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Section 42 United 

States Code (USC) 6962, the NNSA/NSO maintains an Affirmative Procurement process that stimulates a market for 

recycled content products and closes the loop on recycling. RCRA Section 42 USC 6962 requires the U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop a list of items containing recycled materials that should be 

purchased. The EPA is also required to determine what the minimum content of recycled material should be for each 

item. Once this EPA-designated list was developed, federal facilities were required to ensure that a process was in 

place for purchasing the EPA-designated items containing the minimum content of recycled materials. Executive 

Order 13101, Greening the Government through Waste Prevention, Recycling and Federal Acquisition, goes one step further and 

requires federal facilities to ensure, where possible, that 100 percent of purchases of items from the EPA-designated 
Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization

11-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

list contain recycled materials at the specified minimum content. Of these items NNSA/NSO purchased from the 

EPA-designated list in 2007, about 52 percent of those purchases contained recycled materials. 

Employee and Public Awareness – The NNSA/NSO P2 and WM initiatives also include an employee and public 

awareness program. Awareness of P2/WM issues is accomplished by dissemination of articles through electronic 

mail, contractor and NNSA/NSO newsletters, the maintenance of a P2/WM intranet Web site, employee training 

courses, and participation at employee and community events. These activities are intended to increase awareness of 

P2/WM and environmental issues and highlight the importance of P2/WM for improving environmental conditions 

in the workplace and community. 

Establishing P2/WM Related Goals – The new Executive Order 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, 

and Transportation Management, requires federal facilities to begin establishing goals to improve efficiency in energy and 

water use, procure goods and services that use sustainable environmental practices, reduce amounts of toxic materials 

acquired, maintain a cost-effective waste prevention and recycling program, ensure construction and major renovation 

of buildings which incorporate sustainable practices, reduce use of petroleum products in motor vehicles and increase 

use of alternative fuels, and acquire and dispose of electronic products using environmentally sound practices. 

11.2 Major P2/WM Accomplishments and Awards 

11.2.1 Accomplishments 

The NNSA/NSO North Las Vegas Facility (NLVF) had applied for inclusion in the State of Nevada’s Storm Water 

General Permit to comply with the storm water pollution prevention regulations of the Clean Water Act. The layout 

and logistics of the facility, however, made compliance with the permit’s standards and conditions, especially the 

monitoring requirements, difficult to quantify and was projected to be very costly. NSTec developed a plan in 2007 to 

evaluate the need for raw materials stored out in the open, then to either recycle, excess, scrap, relocate, or protect the 

exposed materials. By carrying out this plan, the company was able to qualify for a Condition of No Exposure, an 

exemption from state and federal storm water pollution prevention regulations. This cleanup project allowed NSTec 

to do something positive for the environment, prevent future regulatory liability, save compliance costs, and recycle a 

significant amount of material. Some needed materials were moved inside or covered, and a total of 1,073 metric tons 

(mtons) (1,180 tons) of materials were removed from NLVF, of which 375 mtons (413 tons) were sold to a recycler. 

Per NSTec’s Environmental Management System (EMS), the Material Exchange Program is continually striving for 

improvement. News articles were published in site and contractor newsletters and disseminated to employees from all 

organizations within NNSA/NSO to raise the level of awareness of the program and its website. The Material 

Exchange Program diverted 1.1 mtons (1.2 tons) of chemicals, office supplies, and equipment from solid and 

hazardous waste landfills in 2007 and a total of 191 mtons (210 tons) of usable materials from such landfills since the 

program’s inception in 1998. 

A number of P2/WM goals were identified and tracked in 2007. These goals are integrated into the NSTec EMS and 

are presented in Chapter 17 of this report (see Table 17-1). 

By December 31, 2007, NSTec completed the 2007 fiscal year (October 1, 2006–September 31, 2007) Waste 

Generation and Pollution Prevention Progress Report for the NTS. This was done by entering the site’s data, 

including annual recycling totals and waste minimization accomplishments, into the DOE Headquarters electronic 

database. NSTec also submitted the calendar year 2007 Waste Minimization Summary Report to NNSA/NSO on 

February 12, 2008, for their subsequent transmittal to the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection. 

11.2.2 Award-winning Accomplishments 

NNSA/NSO received one NNSA Pollution Prevention Award for P2 activities in 2007. The B-3 renovation project 

received an Environmental Stewardship Award. Building B-3 had been vacant for two years, and rather than 

demolish the building, NNSA/NSO and NSTec decided to remediate, renovate, and upgrade it. This project resulted 

in extending the life cycle of the building, reconfiguring office space to increase capacity, conserving resources, 

reducing waste material going to landfills, contributing to recycling efforts, eliminating a 20-mile round trip drive for 
Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 11-3 

displaced employees, and an expectation of being certified a green building in the Leadership in Energy and 

Environmental Design by the U.S. Green Building Council. 

Remediation and demolition activities began with the removal of interior walls, floor coverings, some duct work, and 

some electrical systems. The ozone-depleting refrigerant was removed from the old heating, ventilation, and air 

conditioning (HVAC) units and reclaimed. The 430 office partitions went to an office furniture recycler. More than 

109 mtons (240,600 pounds [lb]) of materials were removed from the interior and recycled locally. Recyclable items 

removed were aluminum (17.14 mtons [37,780 lb]), cardboard (0.66 mtons [1,460 lb]), copper (5.06 mtons 

[11,170 lb]), 21 HVAC units (13.60 mtons [29,980 lb]), iron (1.36 mtons [3,000 lb]), stainless steel (0.16 mtons 

[360 lb]) and tin (71.15 mtons [156,860 lb]). 

More than 75 percent of the existing building structure was conserved. The 25 percent new construction included 

water and energy conservation from new landscaping, a new roof, new HVAC units, glazed windows, low-flow 

bathroom fixtures, improved lighting, better insulation, and adding B-3 to the automated energy monitoring and 

management system. The new building now houses 400 workers, an increase of 70 employees. 

11.3 Waste Reductions 

P2/WM techniques and practices are implemented for all activities that may generate waste. These P2/WM activities 

result in reductions to the volume and/or toxicity of waste actually generated on site. Table 11-1 shows a summary of 

the waste reduction activities accomplished during 2007. Estimated reductions of 167 mtons of hazardous waste 

(including RCRA, Toxic Substance Control Act, and state-regulated hazardous wastes) and 1,698 mtons of solid waste 

(sanitary waste) occurred in 2007, all from recycling and reuse. Table 11-2 compares the amounts of radioactive, 

hazardous, and solid wastes reduced in 2007 to the amounts in prior years. 

 Table 11-1. Waste reduction activities in 2007 

Activity 

Reduction 

(mtons)(a)

Hazardous Waste

Bulk used oil was sent to an offsite vendor for recycling 76.6 

Lead acid batteries were shipped to an offsite vendor for recycling 48.3 

Computer equipment was returned to the vendor where it is refurbished and sold for reuse 38.2 

Lead scrap metal was sold for reuse/recycling 0.8 

 Spent fluorescent light bulbs, mercury lamps, metal hydride lamps, and sodium lamps 

 were sent to an offsite vendor for recycling 

2.1 

Rechargeable batteries were sent to an offsite vendor for recycling 0.3 

 Lead tire weights were reused instead of being disposed as hazardous waste 0.7 

 Hazardous chemicals were relocated to new users through the Material Exchange Program, 

 diverting them from landfill disposal 

0.0 

Total 167.0 

Solid Waste

Scrap ferrous metal was sold to a vendor for recycling 791.8 

Mixed paper and cardboard was sent off site for recycling 606.2 

Food waste from the cafeterias was sent off site to be reused as pig feed for a local pig farmer 47.5 

Shipping materials including pallets, styrofoam, bubble wrap, and shipping containers were reused 16.0 

Scrap non-ferrous metal was sold to a vendor for recycling 232.3 

Spent toner cartridges were sent off site for recycling 2.9 

Non-hazardous chemicals, equipment, and supplies were relocated to new users through 

 the Material Exchange Program, diverting them from landfill disposal 

1.1 

Aluminum cans were sent off site for recycling 0.7 

Total 1,698.5

(a) 1 mton = 1.1 ton 
Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization

11-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 Table 11-2. Quantities of waste reduced through P2/WM activities by waste type and year 

Calendar Year Radioactive (m3)(a) Hazardous (mtons)(b) Solid (mtons)

2007 0 167 1,698 

2006 0 149 803 

2005 0 13,992 1,194 

2004 0 115 1,438 

2003 40.0 207 1,547 

2002 63.2 177 904 

(a) 1 cubic meter (m3) = 1.3 cubic yards 

(b) 1 mton = 1.1 ton 
Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources Management

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 12-1

12.0 Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources 

Management 

The historic landscape of the Nevada Test Site (NTS) contains archaeological sites, buildings, structures, and places of 

importance to American Indians and others. These are referred to as “cultural resources.” U.S. Department of 

Energy (DOE) Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program, requires that NTS activities and programs comply with all 

applicable cultural resources regulations (see Section 2.8) and that such resources on the NTS be monitored. The 

Cultural Resources Management (CRM) program has been established and is implemented by the Desert Research 

Institute (DRI) on the NTS to meet this requirement. The CRM program is designed to meet the specific goals 

shown below. 

In order to achieve the program goals and meet federal and state requirements, the CRM program is multifaceted and 

contains the following major components: (1) inventories and historical evaluations, (2) curation of archaeological 

collections, and (3) the American Indian Program. The guidance for the CRM program work is provided in the 

Cultural Resources Management Plan for the Nevada Test Site (Drollinger et al., 2002). Historic preservation personnel and 

archaeologists of DRI who meet the Secretary of the Interior standards conduct the work and the archaeological 

efforts are permitted under the Archeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA). 

A brief description of the CRM program components and their 2007 accomplishments are provided in this chapter. 

The methods used to conduct inventories and historical evaluations in support of NTS operations were summarized 

in the 2003 NTS Environmental Report (DOE, 2004b). The reader is directed to a separate file called Nevada Test Site 

Description on the compact disc of this 2007 report. The Nevada Test Site Description contains a summary of the known 

human occupation and use of the NTS from the Paleo-Indian Period, about 12,000 years ago, until the mining and 

ranching period of the twentieth century, just before NTS lands were withdrawn for federal use. 

Cultural Resources Management Program Goals 

Ensure compliance with all regulations pertaining to cultural resources on the NTS (see Section 2.8). 

Inventory and manage cultural resources on the NTS. 

Provide information that can be used to evaluate the potential impacts of proposed projects and programs to 

cultural resources on the NTS and mitigate adverse effects . 

Curate archaeological collections in accordance with Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 79. 

Conduct American Indian consultations related to places and items of importance to the Consolidated Group 

of Tribal Organizations. 
Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources Management

12-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

12.1 Cultural Resources Inventories, Historical Evaluations, and 

Associated Activities 

Cultural resources inventories are conducted at the NTS to meet the requirements of the National Historic 

Preservation Act (NHPA) and the ARPA. The inventories are completed prior to proposed projects that may disturb 

or otherwise alter the environment. The following information is maintained in databases: 

• Number of cultural resources inventories conducted 

• Location of each inventory 

• Number of acres surveyed at each project location 

• Types of cultural resources identified at each project location 

• Number of cultural resources determined eligible to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) 

• Eligible properties avoided by project activities 

• Cultural resources requiring mitigation to address an adverse effect 

• Final report on results 

12.1.1 Cultural Resources Inventories 

In 2007, two cultural resources inventories were conducted for proposed projects: (1) the Nevada Test Site Fire and 

Rescue Training Area in Area 5 and (2) the Sandia JTA drill holes in Areas 5, 6, and 14. No cultural resources were 

identified during these surveys (Table 12-1). A separate inventory was conducted of a recently discovered 

archaeological site that is a dual component site, consisting of a historic mining support camp and a prehistoric lithic 

artifact scatter. This project was still in progress at the end of 2007. 

12.1.2 Evaluations of Historic Structures

Historical evaluations were completed in 2007 for the U12e Tunnel and the Area 25 BREN (Bare Reactor Experiment 

Nevada) Tower Complex. Evaluation findings are summarized below. Two additional historical evaluations were 

conducted for U12t Tunnel and the Structural Response Structures, and were both still in progress at the end of 2007. 

The U12e Tunnel was in operation from 1958 to 1978 and was used for tests related to nuclear weapons development 

and effects conducted by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and the U.S. Department of Defense. Nine 

nuclear tests and seven high explosive tests were performed within the U12e Tunnel. There are 43 cultural features 

associated with the portal areas of the U12e Tunnel and range from wood beams serving as simple footings to the 

portal entrances. The U12e Tunnel and all associated features are eligible to the NRHP as a historic landscape. 

Scientific research conducted at the tunnel made significant contributions to the broad patterns of our history, 

particularly in regard to the Cold War era that was characterized by competing social, economic, and political 

ideologies between the former Soviet Union and United States. The tunnel also possesses a distinctive type and 

method of construction and engineering for conducting underground nuclear tests. The U12e Tunnel is to be left in 

place as a historic landscape. 

The Area 25 BREN Tower Complex was used for a High Energy Neutron Reactions Experiment research program, 

commonly known as Operation HENRE. This program had 10 experiments related to radiation (e.g., general 

radiation propagation studies, shielding investigations, emulsion spectrometry, and radiological armor design testing). 

Some of the test data were crucial to the development of accurate dose-rate calculations for people exposed to 

radiation, including the survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The complex contains 2 buildings, 24 structures, and 

12 features. The 2 buildings, 18 of the structures, and 8 of the features were determined eligible to the NRHP for 

their significance in the history of nuclear testing, especially for their contributions to dosimetry studies. The BREN 

Tower itself is also eligible for its construction techniques and engineering. With a height of 1,527 feet, BREN Tower 
Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources Management

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 12-3

is 50 feet taller than the Empire State Building and is the tallest structure ever built for the United States government. 

Originally, the tower was installed in Area 4 of the NTS in 1962 and then moved to Area 25 in 1966. 

As summarized in Table 12-1, a total of 199.95 hectares (370.47 acres) was examined during cultural resources 

inventories and historical evaluations. No historic or prehistoric archaeological sites were studied for inclusion to the 

NRHP. 

 Table 12-1. Summary data for cultural resources inventories and historical evaluations conducted in 2007

Area Surveyed 

Inventory/Historical 

Evaluation 

Prehistoric/Historic 

Sites Found 

Cultural 

Resources 

Evaluated 

Cultural 

Resources 

Determined 

NRHP Eligible Acres Hectares 

Nevada Test Site Fire and Rescue 

Training Area 0 0 0 5.57 2.25 

Sandia JTA Drilling Program 0 0 0 3.0 1.0 

U12e Tunnel Historical Evaluation 0 43 43 84.9 74.7 

Area 25 BREN Tower Complex 0 38 28 277.0 122.0 

Totals 0 81 71 370.47 199.95 

12.1.3 Associated Cultural Resources Activities

12.1.3.1 Adverse Effect Assessments and Mitigation Activities 

One project was undertaken to develop a plan to mitigate the cumulative effects of nuclear tests, the passage of time, 

and the desert climate on two buildings. These two-story houses, one wood and the other brick, were part of the civil 

effects component of the 1955 Apple 2 atmospheric nuclear test and have been determined eligible to the NRHP as 

properties contributing to the Apple 2 district. Architects and a structural engineer examined the buildings and 

provided direction on methods to stabilize the houses. 

12.1.3.2 General Reconnaissance/Archival Research 

General reconnaissance and other activities were also conducted in 2007. There were six field projects and eight 

archival research projects. The first field project was the annual site monitoring program. The NHPA requires federal 

agencies to identify and maintain the integrity of historic properties under their jurisdiction. Historic properties are 

cultural resources that have been determined eligible to the NRHP through consultation between the NNSA/NSO 

and the Nevada State Historic Preservation Office. The purpose of the monitoring program is to periodically 

document that the historic properties, traditional cultural properties, and American Indian sacred sites on the NTS 

retain their integrity and NRHP eligibility. Monitoring the condition of cultural resources is an integral part of the 

NNSA/NSO historic preservation program. The 2007 monitoring project focused on 10 properties eligible to the 

NRHP. The sites monitored were three prehistoric temporary camps, two dual component camps (prehistoric and 

historic), two mining camps, one historic cabin, Yucca Lake Historic District structures, and six sets of atmospheric 

viewing benches. The monitoring provided the opportunity to update site information, evaluate the condition of site 

locations and make further recommendations for the protection of the sites. The condition of a cabin at one of the 

mining camps has deteriorated with the collapse of the roof into the interior of the cabin impacting the inside walls, 

making entrance impossible. The age of the cabin and weathering produced this result. Seven of the sites were in a 

good state of preservation experiencing only normal weathering (wind, rain, sun and rodent activity). Two of the sites 

have been moderately affected by visitor traffic. Four field projects focused on the photo-documentation of structures 

in Areas 2, 6, and 7. The sixth field project was the archaeological support for the placement of 125 16-inch square 
Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources Management

12-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

orthophoto targets in various areas on the NTS. The purpose of the targets is to serve as optical ground control 

points for correctly registering aerial photography. 

Two archival research projects involved gathering information on the history of the U15a and U15e tests. The third 

project was to compile a list of NTS buildings and structures that have had either historical evaluations conducted or 

documentation completed for the Historic American Engineering Records and the Historic American Building 

Survey, as well as a bibliography of the documentation and associated short and technical reports. The fourth project 

involved a review of the documentation of eligibility for Building 2201 in Area 26 and mitigation efforts completed to 

date in anticipation of further activities at this location. The fifth consisted of archival research for the rack tower 

module located at the North Las Vegas NNSA/NSO facility. The last three projects were archival research on two 

prehistoric obsidian source sites, a proposed landfill extension in Area 23, and the compilation of previous research 

and results for two proposed project locations in Areas 5 and 6. 

12.1.3.3 Reports 

One inventory report (SR), one historical evaluation (HE), one monitoring report (MR), one letter report (LR) and 

one technical research report (TR) were completed in 2007 and are listed in Table 12-2. Site location information is 

protected from public distribution and those reports containing such data are not available to the public. Technical 

reports can be obtained from the DOE’s Office of Scientific and Technical Information at 

<http://www.osti.gov/bridge>. 

The data on NTS archaeological activities also were provided to DOE Headquarters in the formal Archeology 

Questionnaire for transmittal to the Secretary of the Interior and, ultimately, to the U.S. Congress as part of the 

Secretary of the Interior’s Annual Archeology Report to Congress. 

Table 12-2. Short reports, historical evaluation reports, monitoring reports, letter reports, and technical 

reports, prepared in 2007 

Project Report Author(s) Report No. 

Reference 

Citation 

Proposed Nevada Test Site Fire and Rescue 

Training Area 

Robert C. Jones SR092407-1 Jones, 2007a 

Historical Evaluation of BREN Tower Complex Susan R. Edwards, Nancy G. 

Goldenberg 

HE110106-1 Edwards and 

Goldenberg, 2007 

Fiscal Year 2007 Cultural Resources Monitoring 

Program 

Barbara A. Holz MR052907-1 Holz, 2007 

Sandia JTA Drilling Areas 5, 6, and 14 Robert C. Jones LR060207-1 Jones, 2007b 

Historical Evaluation of U12e Tunnel Drollinger, Harold., Robert C. 

Jones, Thomas F. Bullard, 

Wayne Griffin, Larry Ashbaugh 

TR104 Drollinger et al., 

 2007 

12.2 Curation 

The NHPA requires that archaeological collections and associated records be maintained at professional standards; 

the specific requirements are delineated in 36 CFR Part 79, Curation of Federally-Owned and Administered Archeological 

Collections. Requirements for curation of the NTS archaeological collection include the following: 

• Maintain a catalog of the items in the NTS collection 

• Package the NTS collection in materials that meet archival standards (e.g., acid-free boxes) 
Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources Management

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 12-5

• Store the NTS collection and records in a facility that is secure and has environmental controls 

• Establish and follow curation procedures for the NTS collection and facility 

• Comply with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act 

In the 1990s, NNSA/NSO completed the required inventory and summary of NTS cultural materials accessioned into 

the NTS Archaeological Collection and distributed the inventory list and summary to the tribes affiliated with the 

NTS and adjacent lands. Consultations followed and all artifacts the tribes requested were repatriated to them. This 

process was completed in 2002; it will be repeated for any new additions to the NTS collection in the future. Known 

locations of American Indian human remains at the NTS continued to be protected from NTS activities in 2007. 

The NTS Archaeological Collection contains over 400,000 artifacts and is curated in accordance with 36 CFR Part 79. 

The curation procedures provide guidelines to follow in order to comply with 36 CFR Part 79. During 2007, several 

curation tasks were conducted. An inventory was completed of artifacts that had been transferred from the Yucca 

Mountain program to the NNSA/NSO in a prior year in preparation for their inclusion into the NNSA/NSO 

collection. 

Most efforts focused on upgrading the storage system and reorganizing the archival records. The content of all 

project files was inspected for relevance with duplicate and non-project documents discarded. All files were then 

reorganized sequentially into fire proof cabinets in the archival records room. Correspondence and other miscellaneous documents were also reviewed and those pertaining to projects were incorporated into the project files. Original 

copies of technical reports in the records room were also transferred to fireproof cabinets (Drollinger, 2007). 

Photographs and negatives as well as the photo log records from various projects were organized into three-ring 

binders. Scanning of individual site records to pdf format was also implemented. These electronic files are backup 

files to the paper records and are going to be incorporated into the NTS cultural resources Geographic Information 

System (GIS) system (Drollinger, 2007). Similarly, the transference of site data and report texts files in electronic 

format has been started in order to upgrade to current standards. These files consist of site information, data analysis, 

and report texts on outdated electronic media that includes tapes and floppy disks for hardware not in use or available 

anymore. The electronic data are being transferred to computers in the archival records room for storage (Drollinger, 

2007). 

12.3 American Indian Program 

NNSA/NSO has had an active American Indian Program since the late 1980s. The function of the program is to 

conduct consultations between NNSA/NSO and NTS-affiliated American Indian tribes. Such consultation occurs 

through the Consolidated Group of Tribes and Organizations (CGTO). The CGTO is composed of 16 groups of 

Southern Paiute, Western Shoshone, and Owens Valley Paiute-Shoshone, along with the Las Vegas Indian Center, a 

Pan-Indian organization (Table 12-3). A history of this program is contained in American Indians and the Nevada Test 

Site, A Model of Research and Consultation (Stoffle et al., 2001). The goals of the program are to: 

• Provide a forum of the CGTO to express and discuss issues of importance 

• Provide the CGTO with opportunities to actively participate in decisions that involve places and locations that 

hold significance for them 

• Involve the CGTO in the curation and display of American Indian artifacts 

• Enable the CGTO and its constituency to practice their religious and traditional activities 

In 2007, this program was enhanced by the addition of an American Indian Program Coordinator. The coordinator 

worked to update the information from the various tribes and to develop future activities for the program. This effort 

is the groundwork for a CGTO meeting in the near future. There were no activities that resulted in consultation with 

the tribes, no new proposals for artifact displays, and no requests by tribes or tribal members to conduct religious 

ceremonies. 
Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources Management

12-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 12-3. Culturally affiliated tribes and organizations in the CGTO

Ethnic Group Tribe/Band 

Southern Paiute Chemehuevi Indian Tribe 

 Colorado River Indian Tribes 

 Kaibab Paiute Tribe 

 Las Vegas Paiute Tribe 

 Moapa Paiute Tribe 

 Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah 

 Pahrump Band of Paiutes 

 

Western Shoshone Duckwater Shoshone Tribe 

 Ely Shoshone Tribe 

 Timbisha Shoshone Tribe 

 Yomba Shoshone Tribe 

 

Owens Valley Paiute-Shoshone Benton Paiute-Shoshone Tribe 

 Big Pine Paiute Tribe 

 Bishop Paiute Tribe 

 Fort Independence Indian Tribe 

 Lone Pine Paiute-Shoshone Tribe 

 

Pan-Indian Organization Las Vegas Indian Center 
Ecological Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 13-1

13.0 Ecological Monitoring 

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program, requires ecological monitoring and 

biological compliance support for activities and programs conducted at the DOE facilities. The National Security 

Technologies, LLC (NSTec), Ecological Monitoring and Compliance (EMAC) Program provides this support for the 

Nevada Test Site (NTS). The major sub-programs and tasks within EMAC include (1) the Desert Tortoise 

Compliance Program, (2) biological surveys at proposed construction sites, (3) monitoring important species and 

habitats, (4) the Habitat Restoration Program, (5) ecosystem mapping and data management, and (6) biological impact 

monitoring at the Non-Proliferation Test and Evaluation Complex (NPTEC). Brief descriptions of these program 

components and their 2007 accomplishments are provided in this chapter. More detailed information may be found 

in the most recent annual EMAC report (Hansen et al., 2008), which is distributed to several state and federal natural 

resource agencies. EMAC annual reports are available electronically at <http://www.osti.gov/bridge>. 

13.1 Desert Tortoise Compliance Program 

The desert tortoise inhabits the southern one-third of the NTS at fairly low estimated densities (Figure 13-1). This 

species is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. In December 1995, the U.S. Department of Energy, 

National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) completed consultation with the 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) concerning the effects of NNSA/NSO activities on the desert tortoise, as 

described in the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Nevada Test Site and Off-Site Locations in the State of Nevada

(DOE, 1996a). A final Biological Opinion (Opinion) (FWS, 1996) was received from the FWS in August 1996. The 

Opinion concluded that the proposed activities on the NTS were not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of 

the Mojave population of the species and that no critical habitat would be destroyed or adversely modified. The 

Opinion established compliance limits for the numbers of accidentally injured and killed tortoises, captured and 

displaced tortoises, and acres of tortoise habitat that can be disturbed. All terms and conditions listed in the Opinion 

must be followed when activities are conducted within the range of the desert tortoise on the NTS. The Desert 

Tortoise Compliance Program was developed to implement the Opinion’s terms and conditions, document 

compliance actions taken, and assist NNSA/NSO in FWS consultations. On March 20, 2007, NNSA requested an 

extension of the August 1996 Opinion until the Supplement Analysis for the NTS Environmental Impact Statement 

was completed. That extension was granted by the FWS in a letter dated July 6, 2007. The extension of the Opinion 

is valid until December 31, 2008. All terms and conditions listed in the Opinion remain in effect until that date. 

In 2007, biologists conducted surveys for 11 projects that were within the distribution range of the desert tortoise. All 

of the proposed projects were covered under the 1996 Opinion. No desert tortoises were accidentally injured or 

killed, nor were any found, captured, or displaced from project sites. One desert tortoise was accidentally killed along 

a paved road. Several site-specific revegetation plans were prepared and will be submitted to the FWS in 2008. In the 

spring of 2007, the FWS issued to NNSA/NSO a Biological Opinion regarding security activities conducted at the 

Device Assembly Facility. 

Ecological Monitoring and Compliance Program Goals 

Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations and stakeholder commitments 

pertaining to NTS flora, fauna, wetlands, and sensitive vegetation and wildlife habitats 

(see Section 2.9). 

Delineate NTS ecosystems. 

Provide ecological information that can be used to evaluate the potential impacts of 

proposed projects and programs on NTS ecosystems and important plant and animal 

species. 
13-2

 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 Figure 13-1. Desert tortoise distribution and abundance on the NTS
Ecological Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 13-3

A cumulative total of 115.77 hectares (ha) (286.07 acres [ac]) of tortoise habitat on the NTS has been disturbed since 

the desert tortoise was listed as threatened in 1992. During 2007, none of the threshold levels for compliance 

measures established by the FWS were exceeded (Table 13-1). In January 2008, NNSA/NSO submitted a report to 

the FWS Southern Nevada Field Office that summarized tortoise compliance activities for the 1996 Opinion 

conducted on the NTS from January 1 through December 31, 2007. 

Table 13-1. Compliance limits and status for NTS operations in tortoise habitat 

Compliance Measure Threshold 

Value 

2007 

Value 

1996 Opinion for NTS Programmatic Activities: 

Number of tortoises accidentally injured or killed as a result of NTS activities per year 3 0 

Number of tortoises captured and displaced from NTS project sites per year 10 0 

Number of tortoises taken in form of injury or mortality on paved roads on the NTS by 

vehicles other than those in use during a project Unlimited 1 

Number of total ha (ac) of desert tortoise habitat disturbed during NTS project 

construction since 1992 1,220 (3,015) 115.77 (286.07) 

13.2 Biological Surveys at Proposed Project Sites 

Biological surveys are performed at proposed project sites where land disturbance will occur. The goal is to minimize 

the adverse effects of land disturbance on important plant and animal species and their associated habitat, important 

biological resources (i.e., nest sites, active tortoise burrows), and wetlands. Biological surveys comply with the terms 

and conditions of the 1996 Opinion and with the mitigation measures specified in the Final Environmental Impact 

Statement for the Nevada Test Site and Off-Site Locations in the State of Nevada (DOE, 1996a) and its Record of Decision. 

Species considered important include those protected or managed under state or federal regulations, plants listed on 

the Nevada Natural Heritage Program’s (NNHP’s) Animal and Plant At-Risk Tracking List (called “sensitive” plants), 

animals listed on NNHP’s Animal and Plant At-Risk Tracking List, and bats assigned a high or moderate risk 

assessment designation under The Revised Nevada Bat Conservation Plan (Bradley et al., 2005). The important 

species known to occur on the NTS include 20 plants, 1 mollusk, 2 reptiles, over 250 birds, and 26 mammals 

(Tables 13-2 and 13-3). All of these species are evaluated for their inclusion in long-term monitoring activities on the 

NTS. Important biological resources include such things as cover sites, nest or burrow sites, roost sites, wetlands, or 

water sources that are vital to important species. The biological survey parameters that are documented include: 

• Number of biological surveys conducted 

• Number of hectares/acres surveyed per proposed project 

• Types and numbers of important species and biological resources found 

• Mitigation recommendations and actions taken to protect species/resources 

In 2007, surveys for 22 projects were conducted (Figure 13-2). The important species and biological resources found 

included inactive tortoise burrows, burrows being used by western burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea), active 

predator burrows, mature Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia), yuccas and cacti, Beatley milkvetch (Astragalus beatleyae), Clokey 

buckwheat (Eriogonum heermannii var. clokei), two barn owls (Tyto alba), two great-horned owls (Bubo virginianus), and two 

active raven nests. For each project, NSTec provided a written summary report of all survey findings and mitigation 

recommendations. 
Ecological Monitoring

13-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 13-2. Important plants known to occur on or adjacent to the NTS 

SENSITIVE PLANT SPECIES

Flowering Plant Species Common Name Status(a)

Astragalus beatleyae Beatley milkvetch S, 5 years 

Astragalus funereus Black woolypod S, 5 years 

Astragalus oopherus var. clokeyanus Clokey eggvetch S, 5 years 

Eriogonum concinnum Darin buckwheat S, 5 years 

Eriogonum heermannii var. clokeyi Clokey buckwheat S, 5 years 

Ivesia arizonica var. saxosa Rock purpusia S, 5 years 

Lathyrus hitchcockianus Bullfrog Hills peavine S, 5 years 

Phacelia beatleyae Beatley scorpionflower S, 10 years 

Arctomecon merriamii White bearpoppy S, 10 years 

Camissonia megalantha Cane Spring suncup S, 10 years 

Cymopterus ripleyi var. saniculoides Sanicle biscuitroot S, 10 years 

Frasera pahutensis Pahute green gentian S, 10 years 

Galium hilendiae ssp. kingstonense Kingston Mountains bedstraw S, 10 years 

Hulsea vestita ssp. inyoensis Pumice alpinegold S, 10 years 

Penstemon fruticiformis var. armagosae Death Valley beardtongue S, 5 years 

Penstemon pahutensis Pahute Mesa beardtongue S, 10 years 

Phacelia filiae Clarke phacelia S, 10 years 

Phacelia mustelina Weasel phacelia S, 10 years 

Phacelia parishii Parish phacelia S, 10 years 

Moss Species 

Entosthodon planoconvexus Planoconvex entosthodon S, 5 years 

PROTECTED/REGULATED PLANT SPECIES

Cactaceae Cacti (18 species) CY 

Agavaceae Yucca (3 species), Agave (1 species) CY 

Pinus monophylla/Juniperus osteosperma Pinyon/Juniper CY 

(a) Status Codes: 

 State of Nevada

S - Listed on NNHP’s Nevada Animal and Plant At-Risk Tracking List, March 2007

CY - Protected as a cactus, yucca, or Christmas tree from unauthorized collection on public lands. Such plants are not protected 

from harm on private lands or on withdrawn public lands such as the NTS 

 Long-term Sensitive Plant Monitoring Status under EMAC

 5 years - Monitor a minimum of once every 5 years 

10 years - Monitor a minimum of once every 10 years 
Ecological Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 13-5

Table 13-3. Important animals known to occur on or adjacent to the NTS 

Mollusk Species Common Names Status (a)

Pyrgulopsis turbatrix Southeast Nevada pyrg S, A 

Reptile Species 

Eumeces gilberti rubricaudatus Western red-tailed skink S, E 

Gopherus agassizii Desert tortoise LT, NPT, S, IA 

Bird Species(b) 

Accipiter gentilis Northern goshawk NPS, S, IA 

Alectoris chukar Chukar G, IA 

Aquila chrysaetos Golden eagle EA, NP, IA 

Buteo regalis Ferruginous hawk NP, S, IA 

Callipepla gambelii Gambel's quail G, IA 

Coccyzus americanus Western yellow-billed cuckoo C, NPS, S, IA 

Falco peregrinus anatum Peregrine falcon NPE, S, IA 

Gavia immer Common loon NP, S, IA 

Haliaeetus leucocephalus leucocephalus Bald eagle EA, NPE, S, IA 

Ixobrychus exillis hesperis Western least bittern NP, S, IA 

Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike NPS, IA 

Oreoscoptes montanus Sage thrasher NPS, IA 

Phainopepla nitens Phainopepla NP, S, IA 

Spizella breweri Brewer’s sparrow NPS 

Taxostoma bendirei Bendire’s thrasher NP, S, IA 

Taxostoma lecontei LeConte’s thrasher NP, S, IA 

Mammal Species 

Antilocapra americana Pronghorn antelope G, IA 

Antrozous pallidus Pallid bat NP, M, A 

Corynorhinus townsendii pallescens Townsend’s big-eared bat NPS, S, H, A 

Equus asinus Burro HB, IA 

Equus caballus Horse HB, A 

Euderma maculatum Spotted bat NPT, S, M, A 

Lasionycteris noctivagans Silver-haired bat M, A 

Lasiurus blossevillii Western red bat NPS, S, H, A 

Lasiurus cinereus Hoary bat M, A 

Lynx rufus Bobcat F, IA 

Microdipodops megacephalus Dark kangaroo mouse NP, A 

Microdipodops pallidus Pale kangaroo mouse NP, S, A 

Myotis californicus California myotis M, A 

Myotis ciliolabrum Small-footed myotis M, A 

Myotis evotis Long-eared myotis M, A 

Myotis thysanodes Fringed myotis NP, S, H, A 

Myotis yumanensis Yuma myotis M, A 
Ecological Monitoring

13-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 13-3. Important animals known to occur on or adjacent to the NTS (continued) 

Mammal Species (continued) Common Name Status(a)

Ovis canadensis nelsoni Desert bighorn sheep G, IA 

Odocoileus hemionus Mule deer G, A 

Pipistrellus hesperus Western pipistrelle M, A 

Puma concolor Mountain lion G, A 

Sylvilagus audubonii Audubon’s cottontail G, IA 

Sylvilagus nuttallii Nuttall’s cottontail G, IA 

Tadarida brasiliensis Brazilian free-tailed bat NP, A 

Urocyon cinereoargenteus Gray fox F, IA 

Vulpes velox macrotis Kit fox F, IA 

(a) Status Codes: 

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered Species Act

 LT - Listed Threatened 

 PD - Proposed for delisting 

 PT - Proposed for listing as Threatened 

 C - Candidate for listing 

 

 U.S. Department of Interior

 EA - Protected under Bald and Golden Eagle Act 

 HB - Protected under Wild Free Roaming Horses and Burros Act 

 

State of Nevada

 F - Regulated as fur-bearer species 

G - Regulated as game species 

NPE - Species protected as endangered under Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) 503 

 NPT - Species protected as threatened under NAC 503 

 NPS - Species protected as sensitive under NAC 503 

 NP - Species listed as protected under NAC 503 

 S - Listed on NNHP’s Nevada Animal and Plant At-Risk Tracking List, March 2007

 

 Revised Nevada Bat Conservation Plan – Bat Species Risk Assessment Designations

 H - High: species imperiled or at high risk of imperilment and having the highest priority for funding, planning, 

 and conservation actions 

 M - Moderate: species which warrant closer evaluation, more research, and conservation actions and lacking 

 meaningful information to adequately assess species’ status 

Long-term Sensitive Animal Monitoring Status under EMAC

A - Active: currently included in long-term population monitoring activities 

E - Evaluate: species for which more information on distribution, abundance, and susceptibilities to threats 

 on the NTS must be gathered before deciding to include in long-term monitoring activities 

IA - Inactive: not currently included in long-term population monitoring activities 

 

 

(b) All wild bird species on the NTS are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act except for the following five species: 

 Gambel’s quail, chukar, English house sparrow, rock dove, and European starling. 

 Also, the State of Nevada protects all wild birds that are protected by federal laws in addition to the species listed in this table. 
Ecological Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 13-7

Figure 13-2. Location of biological surveys conducted on the NTS in 2007 
Ecological Monitoring

13-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Figure 13-3. Typical habitat of P. fruticiformis ssp. amargosae

(center of photo) in the Striped Hills, Area 25 (Photo by D. 

Anderson, May 31, 2007)

13.3 Important Species and Habitat Monitoring 

Over the last three decades, NNSA/NSO has taken an active role in collecting or supporting the collection of 

information on the status of important plants and animals and their habitat on the NTS and has produced numerous 

documents reporting their occurrence, distribution, and susceptibility to threats on the NTS (see Ecology of the Nevada 

Test Site: An Annotated Bibliography [Wills and Ostler, 2001]). In 1998, NNSA/NSO prepared a Resource Management 

Plan (DOE, 1998). One of the many natural resources goals stated in the plan is to protect and conserve sensitive 

plant and animal species found on the NTS and to minimize cumulative impacts to those species as a result of 

NNSA/NSO activities. The EMAC goals of species and habitat monitoring on the NTS are to: 

• Ensure that impacts caused directly by NTS projects can be detected, quantified, and managed so that a species’ 

occurrence on the NTS is not threatened by such projects 

• Ensure adherence to state and federal regulations aimed at protecting wild horses, migratory birds, wetlands, and 

wildlife habitat 

Data collected for monitored species include: 

• Distribution on the NTS 

• Relative abundance, density, or population size on 

the NTS 

• Susceptibility to threats from NTS projects 

• Location of nest burrows, nests, or roost sites of 

sensitive animals 

• Location of preferred habitats 

• Incidence and cause of mortality 

In 2007, the major accomplishments under this EMAC task are presented below. Detailed descriptions of these 

actions and results can be found in Hansen et al. (2008). 

13.3.1 Sensitive Plants 

There are 20 plant species which occur on the NTS that are considered sensitive (see Table 13-2). Currently none 

have been listed as threatened or endangered by the State of Nevada or the FWS. The list of sensitive plant species 

for the NTS is reviewed annually. There were no changes to the list in 2007. 

Penstemon fruticiformis spp. amargosae (Death Valley 

beardtongue) was added to the list in 2006 and was 

the only species monitored in 2007. It was monitored to confirm its occurrence on the NTS. The 

distribution of P. fruticiformis spp. amargosae encompasses less than a 100-mile by 100-mile area along 

the California-Nevada border with a range of 

slightly over 4,000 square miles. Scientists conducted surveys in 1992 and 1994 and described a 

location of P. fruticiformis spp. amargosae as “on the 

NTS boundary.” In May 2007, surveys were conducted along the north slopes of the Striped Hills 

in Area 25. Numerous plants of P. fruticiformis spp.

amargosae were found scattered over several acres, 

with the heaviest concentrations on mid to upper 

talus slopes (Figure 13-3). Three of the five 

groupings of P. fruticiformis spp. amargosae were 

confirmed to be within the boundaries of the 

NTS. This site will be added to the NTS longterm monitoring program for sensitive plant 

species and will be monitored at least once during 

a five-year period. 
Ecological Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 13-9

13.3.2 Important Animals 

13.3.2.1 Western Red-tailed Skink 

Surveys for the western red-tailed skink 

(Eumeces gilberti rubricaudatus) (Figure 13-4) 

continued in 2007. Eleven of the 16 known 

lizards and 7 of the 17 known snake species on 

the NTS were captured over 4,517 trap days, 

but no western red-tailed skinks were captured. 

Overall trap success for all reptiles was 3.6 

percent compared to 8.8 percent in 2006. Of 

particular interest was the capture of three 

Great Basin skinks (E. skiltonianus utahensis) at 

two locations on Pahute Mesa. This represents 

a range extension for this species on the NTS, 

as these animals were previously known to 

occur only on Rainier Mesa. Current western 

red-tailed and Great Basin skink distribution on 

the NTS is presented in Hansen et al. (2008). 

NTS biologists collaborated with Dr. Jonathan 

Richmond, a skink expert at Cornell University, to provide skink samples for genetic testing. The results of this 

ongoing study are also presented in Hansen et al. (2008). 

13.3.2.2 Western Burrowing Owl 

Western burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia 

hypugaea) were trapped on the NTS in 2007 as 

part of a collaborative effort with Dr. Courtney 

Conway to evaluate the genetic relatedness and 

migratory status of owls in western North 

America. Dr. Conway is funded by the 

Department of Defense Legacy Project. Five 

adults and two juveniles were captured. One 

adult female was recaptured 1.2 kilometers (km) 

(0.7 miles [mi]) east of her natal burrow where 

she was originally captured as a juvenile in July 

2005. Radioisotopic analysis of the feathers 

from this owl should provide information on 

where she spent the winter. Data from this 

cooperative effort will provide a greater understanding of western burrowing owl residency 

and migratory status on the NTS. Owl chicks 

were found in a culvert nest on Pahute Mesa 

(Figure 13-5). This is the farthest north and highest elevation (1,902 meters [6,240 feet]) nest recorded to date on the 

NTS. Six new burrow sites were found this year in the transition ecoregion, making a total of 138 known western 

burrowing owl locations on the NTS (NSTec, 2008a). 

13.3.2.3 Bird Monitoring and Mortality 

Several raptors occur on the NTS. Some are sensitive species and all are protected or regulated under the Migratory 

Bird Treaty Act or Nevada state law (see Table 13-3). Because these birds occupy the higher trophic levels of the 

food chain, they are regarded as indicators of ecosystem stability and health. Nine raptor species are known to breed 

on the NTS. No field surveys for active raptor nests were conducted in 2007, although this means of monitoring 

raptor breeding is conducted at least once every five years. 

Figure 13-4. Western red-tailed skink captured in 2006 at Twin 

Spring (Photo by D. B. Hall, May 11, 2006)

Figure 13-5. 8- to 10-day-old western burrowing owl chicks in culvert 

burrow on Pahute Mesa (Photo by D. B. Hall, June 20, 2007) 
Ecological Monitoring

13-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Opportunistic sightings of raptors were uncommon in 2007. They included red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), turkey 

vultures (Cathartes aura), golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), American kestrels (Falco sparverius) and prairie falcons (Falco 

mexicanus). Many of these individuals are commonly seen perching on utility poles on Frenchman and Yucca flats. 

Cooper’s hawk (Accipter cooperii) and red-tailed hawks were observed around water sources. 

Bird mortality is a measure of the impacts of NNSA/NSO activities on protected birds. Seven bird mortalities were 

recorded in 2007 (Table 13-4): one by electrocution, two by vehicle, one by predation, and three from unknown 

causes. No injuries to protected birds were reported. No mitigation measures were identified in 2007 to reduce bird 

mortality on the NTS. NNSA/NSO activities have a low impact on protected birds. Since 1990, an average of 13 

bird mortalities has been reported each year, which includes deaths caused naturally and those caused by NNSA/NSO 

activities (Figure 13-6). Only three bird deaths reported in 2007 can be attributed to NNSA/NSO activities. 

 Table 13-4. Records of bird mortality on the NTS in 2007 

 Cause of Death 

Species Electrocution Vehicle Unknown Predation

Common raven (Corvus corax) 1 

Eared Grebe (Podiceps nigricollis ) 1 

Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) 1 

Grey flycatcher (Empidonax wrightii) 1 

Great-horned owl (Bubo virginianus) 1 

Red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) 1 

Red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) 1 

 Total 1 2 3 1 

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Year

Number of Dead Birds

Roadkill

Electrocution

Entrapment

Drowning

Predation

Disease

Chick Mortality

Unknown

 Figure 13-6. Number of bird deaths recorded on the NTS by year and cause

13.3.2.4 State-Protected Small Mammals 

Each year the NNHP Nevada At-Risk Animal Tracking List and the NAC 503 are reviewed to identify changes in the 

status of animals known to occur on the NTS. A noteworthy change in 2005 was the addition of the dark kangaroo 
Ecological Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 13-11

mouse (Microdipodops megacephalus) and the pale kangaroo mouse (M. pallidus) to the list of Nevada Protected species 

under NAC 503. As a result, small mammal trapping was initiated in 2005 to help assess these species’ distribution 

and abundance on the NTS. Small mammal trapping continued in 2007; however, these two species were not 

captured. A total of 530 animal captures representing nine species was recorded in 4,800 trap nights at eight sites. 

13.3.2.5 Sensitive Bats 

Monitoring sensitive bat species of the NTS (see Table 13-3) in 2007 focused on analysis of acoustic data from 

Camp 17 Pond, post-closure monitoring at N Tunnel complex, removing bats from buildings, and documenting bat 

roosts. Several thousand files containing bat vocalizations recorded from Camp 17 Pond since 2003 were examined 

for winter and year-round activity patterns by species and across all species (NSTec, 2008a). Winter activity data 

revealed that silver-haired bats (Lasionycteris noctivagans), small-footed myotis (Myotis ciliolabrum), and long-legged myotis 

(M. volans) accounted for 76 percent of total winter bat activity. These species were not previously documented to be 

winter active in this region. Also, activity for all bat species combined showed a peak in July when young are 

becoming volant and are flying with the adults. Year-round activity varied by species. 

Bat-compatible closures (i.e., bat gates) were installed on the NTS for the first time during fall 2006/winter 2007. 

Two were installed during closure of the N Tunnel Complex in Area 12. Post-closure bat monitoring was conducted 

from February to June at the complex. Monitoring results suggest that use of the bat gates is limited as only one 

species, California myotis (Myotis californicus) was detected (NSTec, 2008a). Bats were found in three buildings on the 

NTS and it was necessary to relocate one of them. Three new bat roosts were documented (one in Mercury, one at 

Test Cell C in Area 25, and one in Area 7 near Reitmann Seep). 

13.3.2.6 Wild Horses 

An annual horse census is conducted at the NTS by driving selected roads, and by using cameras to record individual 

markings of animals. Numbers have dropped 20 percent from 53 in 2006 to 42 in 2007 (Table 13-5). The loss in 

numbers is due to poor foal survival. A foal, abandoned by its mare in July, was killed by coyotes. Mountain lion 

predation pressure on horses may have increased coincident with the reduction in the number of deer (see Section 

13.3.2.7). 

 Table 13-5. Number of individual horses observed on the NTS by age class, gender, and year 

Age Class Years 

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 

Foals 11 11 5 6 5 5 8 8 

Yearlings 4 2 0 9 (a) 9 6 8 1 

Gender (b)

 M F M F M F M F M F M F M F M F 

2-Year Olds 2 (c) 0 2 2 0 2 0 0 4 4 5 4 3 3 2 3 

3-Year Olds 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 2 0 0 4 4 4 4 1 3 

(>3-Year Olds) 13 21 11 20 8 19 8 20 6 21 5 21 7 24 5 27 

Total 

(excludes foals 

and dead horses) 

38 37 33 38 44 49 53 42 

(a) 1 of the 9 was found dead 

(b) M=Male, F=Female 

(c) These 2 were found dead 

Road surveys are conducted annually to determine the range of wild horses on the NTS. Their range decreased from 

2006 to 2007 (NSTec, 2008a). Camp 17 pond and Gold Meadows Spring continue to be important summer water 

sources for horses. 
Ecological Monitoring

13-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

13.3.2.7 Mule Deer

An index of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) abundance has been measured on the NTS from 1989 to 1994 and in 1999, 

2000, 2006, and 2007 (NSTec, 2008a). Deer counts have fluctuated from a low of 9.0 in 1999 to a high of 62.1 in 

2006. The number of deer counted in 2007 was 30.5, a 50 percent decline from 2006. Periodic surveys will continue 

to be conducted to monitor the relative changes in deer counts over time. 

13.3.2.8 Mountain Lions 

Mountain lions (Puma concolor) prey on wild horses, deer, antelope (Antilocapra americana), and even desert tortoises and 

pose a potential threat to humans on the NTS. In 2007, eight sightings of mountain lions or their sign by NTS 

workers were documented. Five of these were in areas of human activity. A collaborative effort continued in 2007 

between Erin Boydston, a research scientist with the U.S. Geological Survey, and NSTec biologists to investigate 

mountain lion distribution and abundance on the NTS. Remote, motion-activated cameras were set up at 15 sites in 

2007, and 5,010 photographs were taken. Of these, 58 were of mountain lions and the remaining included images of 

21 other species (mainly birds and other mammals). 

Mountain lions were detected at only six of the 15 sites, with 54 photographs taken at three sites located within 2.6 km 

(1.61 mi) of each other on Rainier Mesa. Five of these six sites were in mule deer habitat on dirt roads with little to 

no vehicle traffic. Careful review of all the photographs suggests the presence of five to nine different individuals 

including adult males (Figure 13-7), adult females, sub-adults, and a lactating female (Figure 13-8). The daily and 

seasonal patterns of mountain lion activity based on the 2007 photographs at monitored sites are presented in NSTec 

(2008a). 

13.3.3 Natural and Man-Made Water Sources 

Natural wetlands (e.g., vegetated seeps and springs) are monitored and are protected when feasible as unique and 

important habitats for plants and wildlife per the intent of Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands. Characterization of these mesic habitats and periodic monitoring of their hydrologic and biotic parameters was started in 1997. 

Monitoring will help identify annual fluctuations and ranges in measured parameters that are natural versus those 

related to NNSA/NSO activities. Ten natural wetlands were monitored in 2007 to document water surface area, 

surface flow, observed disturbances, and wildlife use and mortality. The surface areas (in square meters [m2]) and 

flow rates (in liters per minute [L/min]) were moderately low at the natural springs in 2007 (0.1–500 m2 and 0.020–

4.5 L/min where flow was measurable, respectively) (NSTec, 2008a). No wetlands were damaged by NTS activities. 

Figure 13-7. Mature male mountain lion at 19-01 Road 

in Area 19 (Photo by motion-activated camera, 

September 8, 2007) 

Figure 13-8. Lactating female mountain lion on Back 

Mesa Road in Area 12 (Photo by motion-activated 

camera, October 11, 2007) 
Ecological Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 13-13

Man-made water sources, that included 38 plastic-lined sumps and 2 radioactive containment ponds, were monitored 

in 2007 for wildlife use and mortality. No dead animals were recorded in sumps. Sediment ramps, previously 

constructed in the plastic-lined sumps, are working to prevent entrapment of deer and other animals, or else animals 

did not enter any of these sumps in 2007. Specific results of species observed at water sources and data collected at 

water sources are reported in NSTec (2008a). 

The Southeastern Pyrg (Pyrgulopsis turbatrix), a sensitive species of springsnail, was monitored in 2007 at Cane Spring, 

its only natural habitat on the NTS. This population has been isolated from other populations that occur in the 

Spring Mountains 80 km (50 mi) to the south since the Pleistocene. 

13.3.4 West Nile Virus Surveillance 

West Nile virus (WNV) is a potentially serious illness that is spread to humans and other animals through mosquito 

bites. WNV surveillance on the NTS continued in 2007 for the fourth consecutive year in cooperation with Southern 

Nevada Health District (SNHD) personnel to determine if mosquitoes on the NTS carry WNV. Nine sites were 

sampled during 15 surveys. NSTec personnel took captured mosquitoes to SNHD personnel for species identification and WNV testing. A total of 13 individuals representing two species were captured and analyzed. All 

specimens tested for WNV were negative including four mosquitoes captured at Well 3 Pond where mosquitoes in 

each of the past two years were determined to be suspect. No new species of mosquitoes were detected in 2007. 

13.4 Habitat Restoration Monitoring Program 

Native vegetation that has been disturbed by NNSA/NSO mission activities or by wildfires is sometimes revegetated 

by seeding and/or planting native plant species. NNSA/NSO evaluates revegetation as a potential method to 

stabilize soils at a site based on site size, future use, nature of soils, annual precipitation, slope, aspect, and site location 

(DOE, 1996a). Revegetation supports the intent of Executive Order 13112, Invasive Species, which is to prevent the 

introduction and spread of invasive (non-native) species and restore native species to disturbed sites. To date, the 

majority of NNSA/NSO projects for which revegetation has been pursued are wildland fire sites and abandoned 

industrial or nuclear test support sites that have been characterized and remediated under the Environmental 

Restoration (ER) Program. Also, the ER Program has funded revegetation of soil closure covers (or cover caps) to 

protect against soil erosion and water percolation into buried waste. 

In 2007, the Habitat Restoration Monitoring Program monitored nine revegetated sites. They included five project 

sites on the Tonopah Test Range (TTR) (Five Points Landfill, Bomblet Pit, Cactus Springs Waste Trench, 

Rollercoaster Sewage Lagoon, and Double Tracks), two cover caps on the TTR (Cactus Springs Waste Trench and 

Rollercoaster Sewage Lagoon), one cover cap on the NTS (U-3ax/bl), and one wildland fire site on the NTS (Egg 

Point fire). Overall plant cover and plant density on the sites monitored was less than in previous years. However, in 

many cases, the amount of cover or density on the restoration site was equal to or higher than on adjacent reference 

areas. Specific plant density and plant cover data by site are presented in NSTec (2008a). 

13.5 Wildland Fire Hazard Assessment 

The DOE Order 450.1, Environmental Protection Program, requires protection of site resources from wildland and 

operational fires. In response to this order, an annual vegetation survey to determine wildland fire hazards is 

conducted on the NTS each spring. Survey findings are submitted to the NTS Fire Marshal and also summarized in 

the annual EMAC report (NSTec, 2008c) along with a description of NTS wildland fires that occurred during the 

year. In 2007, there were 15 wildland fires and a total of less than 1 ha (2.5 ac) burned. Most fires were confined to a 

single tree or shrub. The 2007 vegetation survey was conducted in April and May, and 211 NTS roadside sampling 

stations were visited to assess a fuel index that can range from 0 (lowest risk of wildfires) to 10 (highest risk) based on 

the presence of fine fuels and woody fuels combined. Fine fuels refer to fine-textured fuels, typically invasive nonnative and native grasses and forbs. Woody fuels refer mainly to shrubs. Mean precipitation in 2007 was about 58 

percent below average at the 17 NTS rain gauges operated by the Air Resources Laboratory, Special Operations and 

Research Division (see Section 16.0). The mean combined fuels index for all 211 sampling stations was 4.77, 
Ecological Monitoring

13-14 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

compared to 5.26, 5.64, and 4.88 in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. Most of the biomass in 2007 was from 

biomass persisting from 2006. The roadside areas that had the highest risk of wildland fires were in Areas 29 and 30. 

The locations of the sampling stations and their fuel index are presented in NSTec (2008a). 

13.6 Biological Monitoring of the NPTEC Complex 

Biological monitoring at NPTEC on the playa of Frenchman Lake in Area 5 is performed as an EMAC task whenever 

there is a risk of significant exposure to downwind plants and animals from planned test releases of hazardous 

materials. The Desert National Wildlife Refuge (DNWR) lies just east of the NTS border, approximately 5 km (3 mi) 

downwind from the NPTEC. The National Wildlife Refuge Administration Act forbids the disturbance or injury of 

native vegetation and wildlife on any National Wildlife Refuge lands unless permitted by the Secretary of the Interior; 

the DNWR is administered within this system. Biological monitoring is conducted to verify that approved tests do not 

disperse toxic chemicals that could harm biota on DNWR. This is also a requirement of the facility’s Programmatic 

Environmental Assessment (DOE, 2002c). 

An unpublished document titled Biological Monitoring Plan for Hazardous Materials Testing at the Liquefied Gaseous Fuels Spill 

Test Facility on the Nevada Test Site, prepared in 1996 and updated in 2002, describes how field surveys will be conducted 

to meet the following two goals: (1) document significant impacts of chemical testing on plants and animals and 

(2) verify that NPTEC operations comply with the National Wildlife Refuge Administration Act (see Section 2.9). 

Monitoring will entail sampling established transects both downwind and upwind of the NPTEC. Since 1996, the 

majority of chemical releases being studied at the center have used such small quantities that downwind test-specific 

monitoring has not been necessary. The parameters to be measured whenever transects must be sampled will include: 

• Number and type of dead animals observed 

• Number and type of wildlife observed 

• Presence of observed vegetation damage 

In 2007, chemical release test plans for two activities on Frenchman Lake playa were reviewed. These tests were 

called Tarantula II and Black Widow 50, 100, and 150. Because chemical releases for these tests were of such low 

volumes or low toxicity, there was no need to monitor downwind transects for biological impacts. Seasonal sampling 

of downwind and upwind transects near the NPTEC was conducted in 2007 to document baseline conditions of biota 

and any cumulative impacts over time of test center activities on biota downwind of the facility. The condition of 

plants and the presence of wildlife sign during the period following summer drought were noted. No differences in 

biota were noted along downwind (treatment) versus upwind (control) transects. These data are made available to 

neighboring land managers upon request. 
Underground Test Area Project 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 14-1 

14.0 Underground Test Area Subproject 

The Underground Test Area (UGTA) Subproject is the largest project in the Environmental Restoration Program. 

It addresses groundwater contamination resulting from past underground nuclear testing conducted in shafts and 

tunnels on the Nevada Test Site (NTS). From 1951 to 1992 more than 800 underground nuclear tests were 

conducted at the NTS (U.S. Department of Energy, 2000a). Most of these tests were conducted hundreds of feet 

above groundwater; however, over 200 of the tests were within or near the water table. Underground testing was 

limited to specific areas of the NTS including Pahute Mesa, Rainier Mesa, Shoshone Mountain, Frenchman Flat, and 

Yucca Flat. The UGTA Subproject is included in the Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order (FFACO) 

between the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office 

(NNSA/NSO) and the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP). The subproject investigates areas 

where local or regional groundwater contamination has occurred. These areas are called corrective action units 

(CAUs) and are directly related to the geographical and hydrologic areas of past NTS underground testing 

(Figure 14-1). 

The UGTA Subproject collects data to define groundwater flow rates and direction to determine the nature and 

location of aquifers (geologic formations of permeable rock containing or conducting groundwater). In addition, 

subproject team members gather information regarding the hydrology and geology of the area under investigation. 

Data from these studies are used to produce hydrogeologic models that will be used to predict groundwater flow and 

contaminant transport. Numerous surface and subsurface investigations and computer modeling are performed by 

various participating organizations including National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec); Los Alamos National 

Laboratory (LANL); Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL); the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS); the 

Desert Research Institute (DRI); and Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture (SNJV). 

Surface investigations include: 

• Evaluating discharges from springs located downgradient of the NTS 

• Assessing surface geology 

Subsurface investigations include: 

• Drilling deep wells to access groundwater hundreds to thousands of feet below the surface 

• Sampling groundwater to test for radioactive contaminants 

• Assessing NTS hydrology and subsurface geology to determine possible groundwater flow paths and direction 

Hydrogeologic modeling includes: 

• Developing a regional three-dimensional computer groundwater model (International Technology Corporation 

[IT], 1996) to identify any immediate risk and to provide a basis for developing more detailed CAU-specific 

models 

• Developing CAU-specific models of groundwater flow and contaminant transport which geographically cover the 

six former NTS underground nuclear testing areas 

• Identifying, through the CAU-specific models, contaminant boundaries based on the extent of contaminant 

migration at specified regulatory limits. 

The final product for each UGTA CAU will be an analytical model that includes a predicted contaminant boundary, 

and a negotiated compliance boundary. A monitoring well network will be designed and installed for each CAU and 

used for monitoring to ensure public health and safety (DOE, 2006b). Closure-in-place with monitoring is considered 

to be the only feasible corrective action because cost-effective groundwater technologies have not been developed to 

effectively remove or stabilize deep subsurface radiological contaminants. 
Underground Test Area Project 

14-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 Figure 14-1. Location of UGTA Subproject model areas 
Underground Test Area Project 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 14-3 

14.1 Subsurface Investigations 

In 2007, well purging and sampling operations were conducted at three UGTA well sites: RNM #1, RNM #2S, and 

U-3cn PS #2 (see Figure 4-12). These three wells are classified as contaminated. They were purged using downhole 

electric submersible pumps prior to the collection of samples. The groundwater from RNM #1 was discharged to the 

ground surface, groundwater from RNM #2S was discharged to the CAMBRIC ditch, and groundwater from 

U-3cn PS #2 was discharged to a lined sump. Discharge decisions were based on monitored tritium and lead 

concentrations in accordance with the Decision Criteria Limits specified in the UGTA Fluid Management Plan 

(Attachment I of DOE, 2002a). LANL and LLNL collected and analyzed the groundwater samples for tritium and 

other radionuclides. The tritium concentrations are presented in Section 4.1.10 of this report (see Table 4-8). 

Groundwater data are maintained by SNJV in the UGTA Subproject geochemical database (SNJV, 2007e). 

The UGTA Subproject also cleaned out the ER-8-1 Yucca Flat/Climax Mine investigation well in 2007 and 

completed it as a water-level measurement well. In accordance with Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) 534, Nevada 

Division of Water Resources Regulations for Water Well and Related Drilling, state-licensed personnel supervised the 

completion of Well ER-8-1 and filed a well driller’s report with the state. Well ER-8-1 was originally drilled in 2002, 

and documented in DOE (2004f). However, drilling operations were suspended prior to completion due to unstable 

borehole conditions (sloughing). This well was intended to provide information on the steep potentiometric gradient 

at the north end of Yucca Flat, and to provide modeling constraints on groundwater flux into Yucca Flat from the 

north. With the completion activities accomplished in 2007, the remaining scientific objectives can now be achieved. 

NSTec personnel who support UGTA well operations renewed their State of Nevada well drilling operations licenses 

in 2007. 

14.2 Hydrogeologic Modeling and Supporting Studies 

Construction of CAU-specific groundwater-flow and contaminant-transport models requires a hydrostratigraphic 

framework that depicts the character and extent of hydrostratigraphic units in three dimensions. Hydrostratigraphic 

framework models, also referred to as geologic models, have been built for the four UGTA CAUs, including the last 

completed in 2007: 

• Pahute Mesa-Oasis Valley, CAUs 101 and 102 (Bechtel Nevada [BN], 2002) 

• Frenchman Flat, CAU 98 (BN, 2005a) 

• Yucca Flat-Climax Mine, CAU 97 (BN, 2006) 

• Rainier Mesa-Shoshone Mountain, CAU 99 (NSTec, 2007)

Several tasks were conducted in 2007 to collect and analyze data that support the development of UGTA 

hydrogeologic models and flow and transport models. NSTec began an effort to document the nature of faults and 

associated permeability structures (i.e., fault-related fractures) within hydrogeologic units at the NTS. Results from 

this field observation-based investigation will provide flow and transport modelers a better understanding of the role 

faults play in the flow of groundwater and migration of contaminants. This work is scheduled to be completed at the 

end of fiscal year (FY) 2008. In the fall of 2007, the USGS collected 3D tensor magnetotelluric (MT) data from 

Area 20 of the Pahute Mesa CAU. The objective of this task is to characterize the 3D distribution of hydrogeologic 

units (i.e., tuff confining units and lava-flow aquifers) within the Calico Hills zeolitic composite unit. High-frequency 

and low-frequency MT data were collected using a close-space grid pattern to achieve high resolution in the 600- to 

1,500-m target depth range. Data analysis for this task will be completed in FY 2008. Efforts to compile 

petrographic, mineralogical, and chemical data from outcrops, tunnels, and drill samples continued, and will be 

included in updates of A Petrographical, Geochemical, and Geophysical Database and Framework for the Southwestern Nevada 

Volcanic Field (Warren et al., 2003). 

Also in 2007, the compilation, analysis, and documentation of all transport parameters that will be used to build the 

flow model for CAU 98 (Yucca Flat-Climax Mine) were completed (SNJV, 2007a). Flow modeling for the Climax 

Mine sub-CAU-scale model (Climax Mine is located at the north end of Yucca Flat) was completed in 2007 and 
Underground Test Area Project 

14-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

documented in Pohlmann et al. (2007). See Table 9-4 in Chapter 9 for the list of hydrogeologic modeling deliverables 

which were submitted to NDEP under the FFACO in 2007. 

Several UGTA Subproject reports and publications were completed in 2007 and are listed in Table 14-1. Some of the 

published technical reports can be obtained from the DOE’s Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI) at 

<http://www.osti.gov/bridge>. The OSTI identification number (ID) for those reports is provided in the table.

Table 14-1. UGTA Subproject publications completed in 2007 

Report Reference 

Evaluation of the Transient Hydrologic Source Term for the Cambric Underground Nuclear Test 

at Frenchman Flat, Nevada Test Site (OSTI ID 907859) 

Carle et al., 2006 

Hydrologic Resources Management Program and Underground Test Area Project FY2005 

Progress Report (OSTI ID: 919618) 

Eaton et al., 2007 

Effect of Reducing Groundwater on the Retardation of Redox-Sensitive Radionuclides Hu et al., 2007 

A Hydrostratigraphic Model and Alternatives for the Groundwater Flow and Contaminant Transport Model of Corrective Action Unit 99: Rainier Mesa-Shoshone Mountain, Nye County, 

Nevada (OSTI ID 934454) 

NSTec, 2007 

Final Report. Hydraulic Conductivity with Depth for Underground Test Area (UGTA) Wells 

(OSTI ID: 921662) 

Oberlander et al., 

2007 

Strontium Isotopic Composition of Paleozoic Carbonate Rocks in the Nevada Test Site Vicinity, 

Clark, Lincoln, and Nye Counties, Nevada, and Inyo County, California 

Paces et al., 2007 

Modeling of Groundwater Flow and Radionuclide Transport at the Climax Mine sub-CAU, 

Nevada Test Site (OSTI ID: 922626) 

Pohlmann et al., 2007 

Head Observation Organizer (HObO) Predmore, 2007 

Semi-Analytical Interpretations of ER-6-1 Multiple-Well Tracer Test Results Reimus, 2007 

Ground-Water Temperature Data, Nevada Test Site and Vicinity, Nye, Clark, and Lincoln 

Counties, Nevada, 2000-2006 (OSTI ID: 913105) 

Reiner, 2007 

Redox Measurements and Colloid Concentration and Size Distribution Analyses of Groundwater 

Samples from Rainier Mesa Tunnels U-12n and U-12t 

Roback et al., 2007 

Phase I Contaminant Transport Parameters for the Groundwater Flow and Contaminant 

Transport Model of Corrective Action Unit 97: Yucca Flat/Climax Mine, Nevada Test Site, Nye 

County, Nevada (OSTI ID: 915816) 

SNJV, 2007a 

An Addendum to the Phase II Groundwater Flow Model of Corrective Action Unit 98: 

Frenchman Flat, Nevada Test Site, Nye County, Nevada (OSTI ID: 915349) 

SNJV, 2007b 

An Addendum to the Groundwater Flow Model of Corrective Action Units 101 and 102: Central 

and Western Pahute Mesa, Nevada Test Site, Nye County, Nevada (OSTI ID: 915347) 

SNJV, 2007c 

An Addendum to the Groundwater Flow Model of Corrective Action Unit 97: Yucca Flat/Climax 

Mine, Nevada Test Site, Nye County, Nevada (OSTI ID: 915348) 

SNJV, 2007d 

Geochem07.mdb and A User’s Guide to the Comprehensive Water Quality Database for 

Groundwater in the Vicinity of the Nevada Test Site 

SNJV, 2007e 

Geologic Characterization of Young Alluvial Basin-Fill Deposits from Drill Hole Data in Yucca 

Flat, Nye County, Nevada (OSTI ID: 898289) 

Sweetkind and 

Drake, 2007 

Magnetotelluric Data, Mid Valley, Nevada Test Site, Nevada (OSTI ID: 913351) Williams et al., 2007 

Summary of Radionuclide Reactive Transport Experiments in Fractured Tuff and Carbonate 

Rocks from Yucca Flat, Nevada Test Site 

Zavarin et al., 2007 
Hydrologic Resources Management Program

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 15-1

15.0 Hydrologic Resources Management Program 

Through 2007, the primary responsibility of the Hydrologic Resources Management Program (HRMP) was to provide 

the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) with 

hydrologic data and information on groundwater supplies to support ongoing and future activities at the Nevada Test 

Site (NTS). The main objective of this program has been to provide a sound technical basis for NTS groundwater use 

decisions regarding the quality and quantity of water resources available on the NTS, and the potential impacts of 

large-scale water withdrawals from or near the groundwater basins of the NTS. Participants in the HRMP include Los 

Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), the U.S. Geological Survey 

(USGS), and the Desert Research Institute (DRI). Due to funding issues incurred from the fiscal year 2008 budget, 

work on the HRMP was suspended in October 2007. The HRMP may be reinstated at a future time, should adequate 

funding again become available. 

15.1 Program Goals and Activities 

The goal of the HRMP is to support national security operations at the NTS by the investigation of site hydrology, 

radionuclide migration, and protection of NTS water resources. The HRMP meets this goal through long-term 

research activities including data collection, analysis, evaluation, modeling, equipment development, and documentation. These activities provide reliable information for decision-making on groundwater utilization, stewardship, and 

environmental protection. Research and technology development activities essential to the achievement of these goals 

are an integral part of the HRMP. 

Results of program activities are available as technical reports and documents. Project participants also disseminate 

information and transfer technologies through publication in technical reports and peer-reviewed journals, 

presentations at professional meetings and symposia, and educational outreach activities. 

15.1.1 Hydrology and Radionuclide Investigations for Operations 

The HRMP assists NNSA/NSO in maintaining capabilities in hydrology and radiochemistry to support test readiness 

and science-based stockpile stewardship through applied field and laboratory studies of the occurrence, distribution, 

and movement of radionuclides in groundwater at the NTS. Scientific expertise is utilized in the assembly, analysis, 

and evaluation of data to produce hydrologic and radionuclide information products. State of Nevada regulations 

require NNSA/NSO to provide detailed information on hydrologic conditions of the NTS. At the request of 

NNSA/NSO management, the HRMP gathers, analyzes, and transfers science-based information to the State of 

Nevada and other external customers. 

Hydrologic services, provided upon request to NNSA/NSO programs, include depth-to-groundwater estimates, water 

level measurements, containment evaluations, and determination of emplacement hole integrity. Technology 

development projects and research investigations are conducted to address gaps in the capabilities and knowledge 

required to support safe conduct of operations for stockpile stewardship, nuclear test readiness, and national security. 

Previous activities have included: 

• Determining the steady state and transient hydrologic conditions in the subsurface, such as the location of the 

groundwater table, perched water zones, and regions of enhanced permeability 

• Using and developing state-of-the-art radiochemical instrumentation to analyze rock and water samples to assist 

in predicting the fate and transport of radioactive isotopes deposited from subsurface experiments 

• Supporting the development of enhanced borehole radionuclide monitoring and sampling equipment capability 

• Achieving a more fundamental understanding of chemical fractionation in underground nuclear tests through 

sample analysis and experimentation 
Hydrologic Resources Management Program

15-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

• Investigating the subsurface geology and fracture propagation in the vicinity of underground nuclear tests for 

containment issues 

• Building public confidence by conducting public and government outreach and education programs on the 

hydrologic environment and the impact of nuclear testing on water resources at the NTS 

• Investigating the free water and bound water relationships in rock samples from boreholes and cores 

15.1.2 Long-Term Groundwater Stewardship 

A major element of the HRMP mission is the protection and long-term stewardship of NTS groundwater resources. 

Numerous activities are conducted to accomplish this element. These include the following: monitoring of groundwater levels, quality, and consumption; evaluation of monitoring well locations and conditions; and utilization of 

groundwater modeling to evaluate water resource availability and the impacts of potential groundwater withdrawals. 

HRMP supports the development and ongoing refinement of groundwater flow models for both the Death Valley 

Region (which includes the NTS) and for groundwater sub-basins which include portions of the NTS. Based upon 

hydrologic investigations and modeling, HRMP will evaluate proposed new groundwater withdrawals on and near the 

NTS for their potential impacts on NTS groundwater reserves, quality, flow paths, and radionuclide migration. The 

HRMP protects NTS groundwater by supporting a well installation and maintenance program which ensures: 

• Reliability of the potable water supply. 

• Optimal location, design, and construction of new potable water wells. 

• Long-term reliability of monitoring wells to supply representative water samples. 

• Integrity of emplacement and groundwater boreholes. 

The HRMP also provides assistance to NNSA/NSO regarding the impact of NTS water usage on offsite water 

supplies and springs, such as Devil’s Hole. In addition, the HRMP assists in addressing compliance issues and is 

responsive to the needs of NNSA/NSO that result from state and federal regulations not within the purview of other 

programs or which may be well-addressed by the capabilities of the HRMP. For example, implementation of the Safe 

Drinking Water Act dictates substantial compliance efforts both on and outside the boundaries of the NTS, a process 

to which HRMP can provide valuable support. 

HRMP also has a groundwater review and advice capability with a unique NTS perspective that is invaluable to 

NNSA/NSO. HRMP scientists conduct competent, informed, and independent reviews of NNSA/NSO 

groundwater-related program documents prior to their release to extensive regulatory and public scrutiny. This 

capability enhances both the protection of NTS groundwater resources and the accuracy and credibility of 

NNSA/NSO program documentation. 

15.2 2007 HRMP Activities 

15.2.1 Well Monitoring 

The USGS Nevada Water Science Center collects, compiles, stores, and reports hydrologic data used in determining 

the local and regional hydrogeologic conditions in and around the NTS for HRMP and for the Underground Test 

Area Subproject. Hydrologic data are collected quarterly or semi-annually from wells within two monitoring 

networks: an onsite and an offsite network (wells located on and off of the NTS). 

By the end of 2007, the USGS monitored water levels in 185 wells. This included 90 wells on the NTS and 95 wells 

off the NTS. Also during 2007, annual temperature data were collected from wells at 1.5 and 16.8 meters (5 and 

55 feet) below the water surface. All water-level and temperature data are posted on the USGS/U.S. Department of 

Energy Cooperative Studies in Nevada Web page at <http://nevada.usgs.gov/doe%5Fnv/>. The water-level data 

are also published in the USGS Nevada Water Science Center Annual Water-Resources Data Report available at 

<http://nevada.usgs.gov/>. 
Hydrologic Resources Management Program

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 15-3

Groundwater use from water-supply wells on the NTS is collected using flow meters which are read monthly by the 

NTS Management and Operating subcontractor and then reported to the USGS Nevada Water Science Center. The 

principal water supply wells monitored during 2007 included J-12 WW, UE-16d WW, WW #4, WW #4A, WW 5B, 

WW 5C, WW 8, and WW C-1. The USGS compiles the annual water-use data and reports annual withdrawals in 

millions of gallons. Discharge data from these wells for 2007 have been compiled, processed, and entered onto the 

USGS/NNSA Web site at <http://nevada.usgs.gov/doe_nv/wateruse/wu_map.htm>. Discharge from these wells 

during 2007 was approximately 225.7 million gallons (Figure 15-1). 

Water-use data is also published in the USGS Nevada Water Science Center Annual Water-Resources Data Report on 

a water-year calendar (October–September). The Water-Year 2007 report is available at <http://nevada.usgs.gov/> 

and will include monthly water-use data for each well listed from October 2006 through September 2007. 

The USGS also continued to maintain and develop the Death Valley Regional Groundwater Flow System Model, 

manage the NTS well hydrologic and geologic information database, and characterize high-altitude precipitation 

environmental isotope parameters in cooperation with LLNL. 

Annual Withdrawals from Nevada Test Site, 1951 to Present

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

19511953195519571959196119631965196719691971197319751977197919811983198519871989199119931995199719992001200320052007

WITHDRAWALS, IN MILLIONS OF GALLONS

Metered or reported

Estimated

Figure 15-1. Annual withdrawals from the NTS, 1951 to present 

15.2.2 Groundwater Recharge and Withdrawal Modeling 

DRI continued work on estimating groundwater recharge in the eastern NTS and vicinity, utilizing stable isotope data 

and a discrete-state compartment (DSC) model (Campana, 1975). DRI developed a new code (DSC model-shuffled 

complex evolution [DSCM-SCE]) (Carroll et al., 2007). Comparisons between the DSCM-SCE and a three 

dimensional, hydraulically defined groundwater model (MODFLOW), found that the two approaches complemented 

each other. 

The USGS Death Valley Regional Groundwater Flow Model (DVRFM) (Belcher, 2004) is used by DRI to create 

refined groundwater models for regions of proposed pumping. DRI has translated the DVRFM into a new model 

called MODFLOW-SURFACT to improve upon the confined/unconfined aquifer treatment in the original DVRFM. 

Currently, the MODFLOW-SURFACT model is not calibrated, and remains for a future project. 
Hydrologic Resources Management Program

15-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

15.2.3 Technology Development 

The need to pump and sample the deep groundwater of the NTS has led an HRMP-funded effort to develop a deep 

groundwater sampling pump. DRI has developed a novel staged Bennett pump system based on the free-piston airdriven pump available from Bennett Sample Pumps, Inc. The DRI-Bennett pump couples multiple pumps together 

in series to lift water in 800-foot increments using off-the-shelf Bennett pumps and tubing bundles. In FY 2007, DRI 

designed and fabricated the necessary components to assemble a two-stage Bennett pump string, and has tested it in 

the laboratory to an effective lift of 1,600 feet. A planned field test could not be carried out, due to a shortage of 

funding. 

15.2.4 National Laboratory Activities 

In 2007, both LANL and LLNL continued to analyze radionuclide speciation and transport parameters. LANL also 

characterized NTS groundwater parameters. LLNL also characterized high-altitude precipitation environmental 

isotope parameters in cooperation with USGS. 
Meteorological Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 16-1

16.0 Meteorological Monitoring 

16.1 Meteorological Monitoring Goals 

Meteorological and climatological data are collected on the Nevada Test Site (NTS) by the Air Resources Laboratory, 

Special Operations and Research Division (ARL/SORD). Data are collected through the Meteorological Data 

Acquisition (MEDA) system, a network of over 30 mobile meteorological towers located primarily on the NTS. The 

MEDA system became operational in 1981, replacing an older system. MEDA is used to measure, transmit, and 

display vital meteorological data to SORD meteorologists and U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security 

Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) customers. These data are used daily for operational support to a 

wide variety of projects on the NTS and form the climatological database for the NTS. The data are also used in 

safety analysis reports, emergency response activities, radioactive waste remediation projects, environmental reports, 

and consequence assessments. The NTS Site Description, Section 3 presents descriptive NTS climatological data 

collected by the MEDA system. The NTS Site Description is included as a separate file on the compact disc of this 

2007 report for easy reference. 

16.2 MEDA Station 

Locations 

A standard MEDA unit consists of an enclosed 

trailer, a portable 10-meter (m) (32.8-feet [ft]) 

tower, an electric generator (when needed), a 

microprocessor, and a microwave radio 

transmitter (Figure 16-1). Locations of the 

MEDA stations are shown in Figure 16-2. All 

towers were sited accord-ing to standards set 

by the Federal Meteorological Handbook No. 1 

(National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration [NOAA, 1995]) and the World 

Meteorological Organization (WMO, 2002) so 

as not to be influenced by natural or man-made 

obstructions or by heat dissipation and 

generation systems. MEDA station locations 

are based on the following criteria: (1) availability of power, (2) access by road, (3) 

line-of-sight to a microwave repeater, and (4) 

project support. A primary goal of the network 

is to provide details in the surface wind field 

for emergency response activities related to the 

transport and dispersion of hazardous 

materials. Another primary goal is to provide 

data used in computing off site radiological 

dose estimates. 

16.3 MEDA Station 

Instrumentation 

MEDA station instrumentation is located on 

booms oriented into the prevailing wind 

direction and at a minimum distance of two 

tower widths from the tower. 

Figure 16-1. Example of a typical MEDA station with a 

 10-meter tower 
16-2

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 Figure 16-2. MEDA station locations on and near the NTS 
Meteorological Monitoring

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 16-3

Wind direction and speed are measured at the 10-m (32.8-ft) level, in accordance with the American National Standard 

for Determining Meteorological Information at Nuclear Facilities (American Nuclear Society, 2005) specifications. Ambient 

temperature, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure measurements are taken at approximately the 2-m (6.6-ft) 

level so as to be within the surface boundary layer. Observations are collected and transmitted every 15 minutes on 

the quarter hours. Wind data are 5-minute averages of speed and direction. The peak wind speed is the fastest 

instantaneous gust measured within the 15-minute time interval. Temperature, relative humidity, and pressure are 

instantaneous measurements. 

16.4 Rain Gauge Network 

ARL/SORD also operates and maintains a climatological rain gauge network on the NTS. This network consists of 

17 Belford Series 5-780 Universal Precipitation Gauges (Figure 16-3). These are strip chart recorders that are read at 

least every 30 days. Once read and checked, the data are entered into the SORD precipitation climatological database. 

Data are recorded as daily totals. Under special circumstances, 1- to 3-hour totals can be obtained. 

16.5 Data Access 

The meteorological parameters measured at each station, along with other information, are listed on the SORD Web 

site <http://www.sord.nv.doe.gov>. MEDA data are also processed and archived in the ARL/SORD climatological 

database. Climatological data summaries are posted on the ARL/SORD Web site under the Climate section. SORD 

meteorologists provide specially tailored climatological summaries by request through NNSA/NSO. For new NTS 

projects and facility modifications which may produce radiological emissions, wind data from the MEDA stations are 

used to calculate potential radiological doses to members of the public residing near the NTS (see Section 3.1.7). 
Meteorological Monitoring

16-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Figure 16-3. Climatological rain gauge network on the NTS 
Integrated Safety Management System and Environmental Management System 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 17-1 

17.0 Integrated Safety Management System and 

Environmental Management System 

A plan to integrate environment, safety, and health (ES&H) management programs at the Nevada Test Site (NTS) 

was developed and initiated at the NTS in 1996. The NTS Integrated Safety Management System (ISMS) is designed 

to ensure the systematic integration of ES&H concerns into management and work practices so that missions are 

accomplished safely. The term safety is used synonymously with environment, safety, and health throughout the NTS ISMS 

implementation policies to encompass protection of the public, the workers, and the environment. The seven guiding 

principles of ISMS and the five core functions are shown below. 

The use of an ISMS helps ensure that (1) all levels of program organizations are accountable for environmental 

protection, (2) all projects are planned with ES&H concerns in mind, and (3) continuous improvements in program 

implementation occur. 

In 2000, Executive Order (EO) 13148, Greening the Government Through Leadership in Environmental Management, was 

issued. It requires all federal agencies to adopt an Environmental Management System (EMS). An EMS is a business 

management practice that allows an organization to strategically address its ES&H matters. EMSs are designed to 

incorporate concern for environmental performance throughout an organization, with the ultimate goal being 

continual reduction of the organization’s impact on the environment. EMS implementation reflects accepted quality 

management principles based on the “Plan, Do, Check, Act” model, using a standard process to identify goals, 

implement them, determine progress, and make improvements to ensure continual improvement. 

EO 13148 applies to most of the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) as 

well as to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and NNSA contractors. DOE required contractors who operate DOE 

sites to develop an EMS and expected full integration of their EMS into their ISMS by December 31, 2005. 

In January 2007, EO 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management, was issued and 

EO 13148 was revoked. EO 13423 requires federal facilities to begin establishing goals to improve efficiency in 

energy and water use, procure goods and services that use sustainable environmental practices, reduce the amount of 

toxic materials acquired, maintain a cost-effective waste prevention and recycling program, ensure construction and 

major renovation of buildings, incorporate sustainable practices, reduce the use of petroleum products and increase 

the use of alternative fuels in motor vehicles, and acquire and dispose of electronic products using environmentally 

sound practices. Compliance with this EO is reflected in the NTS EMS. 

Seven Guiding Principles Five Core Functions 

Line management is directly responsible for the protection of the public, 

the workers, and the environment. 

Clear roles and responsibilities for ES&H are established and maintained. 

Personnel competence is commensurate with their responsibilities. 

Resources are effectively allocated to address ES&H, programmatic, and 

operational considerations with balanced priorities. 

ES&H standards and requirements are established that ensure adequate 

protection of the employees, the public, and the environment. 

Administrative and engineering controls to prevent and mitigate ES&H 

hazards are tailored to the work being performed. 

Operations are authorized. 

Define the scope of work. 

Identify and analyze the hazards 

and environmental aspects 

associated with the work. 

Develop and implement hazard 

and aspect controls. 

Perform work within the 

controls. 

Provide feedback on the 

adequacy of the controls for 

continuous improvement. 
Integrated Safety Management System and Environmental Management System 

17-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

17.1 Scope of Chapter 

This chapter reflects the status of EMS and ISMS in 2007 under National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec), the 

current Management and Operating (M&O) contractor. Work in previous years on the M&O’s EMS and ISMS 

integration can be found in previous Nevada Test Site Environmental Reports.

17.2 Elements and Status of the NTS EMS 

The major event affecting the EMS program during 2007 was a commitment by NSTec to pursue ISO 14001 

Certification (ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization). NSTec committed in their contract 

proposal to obtain the certification by June 30, 2009. An internal management assessment was performed in 

December 2006 to evaluate the current environmental program against the requirements of the ISO 14001:2004 

Standard. The assessment showed that the current program is mature and effective, but improvements must be made 

in some of the elements to satisfy all the rigorous ISO 14001 requirements. In 2007, an Implementation Strategy was 

developed to address the identified deficiencies, and an Environmental Working Group (EWG) representing all 

operating parts of the company was formed to direct the implementation strategy. Monthly meetings were held with 

the environmental staff reviewing implementation progress with the Executive Leadership Council NSTec President 

and his direct reports. Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance Limited was contracted to be NSTec’s ISO 14001 certifying 

company, and the NSTec stretch goal is to obtain the certification by June 30, 2008. The 2007 progress, status, and 

some of the intended NSTec future actions to meet the requirements of each ISO element are discussed in the 

subsections below. 

17.2.1 NTS Environmental Policy 

The Environmental Policy of Bechtel Nevada (the previous M&O contractor) was adopted without revision by 

NSTec on July 1, 2006. It was reviewed, updated, and made an NSTec policy in 2007. The policy is a statement of 

NSTec’s intentions and principles regarding overall ES&H performance. It provides a framework for planning and 

action. The new policy is on the NSTec intranet home page, so it will be available to the public. The NSTec 

Environmental Policy contains the following key goals and commitments: 

• Protect the environment by meeting all applicable DOE orders and federal, state, and local environmental laws 

and regulations. 

• Evaluate activities to identify potential environmental impacts, and then take mitigation actions to eliminate or 

minimize the hazards. 

• Establish objectives and targets in order to continually improve the environmental program. 

• Protect valued natural resources and support waste minimization and pollution prevention (P2) activities. 

• Communicate and instill an organizational commitment to environmental excellence in company activities. 

17.2.2 Environmental Aspects 

When operations have an environmental aspect, NSTec implements the EMS to minimize or eliminate any potential 

impact. NSTec evaluates its operations by performing a Hazard Assessment, identifies the aspects of operations that 

can impact the environment, and determines the appropriate mitigation actions. The Hazard Assessment requires the 

activity manager to go through a series of questions that identify potential environmental impacts. The assessment 

also lists available mitigations, such as training and applicable procedures and guidance. The completed Hazard 

Assessment is then reviewed and, when approved by the NSTec ESH &Q Division, becomes part of the 

authorization basis for performing the work. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents, Health and 

Safety Plans, and Execution Plans also identify aspects that can have potential impacts. Each of these documents 

then requires that mitigation actions be identified to minimize the risk of adverse impacts. During 2007 (for calendar 

year 2008), the EWG updated the list of aspects and applied a risk matrix to determine which aspects were significant. 

NSTec has determined that the following aspects of its operations have the potential to affect the environment: 
Integrated Safety Management System and Environmental Management System 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 17-3 

Significant aspects:

• Hazardous, radioactive, and mixed waste generation and management 

• Environmental restoration and demolition 

• Air quality emissions 

• Resource protection (cultural, biological, and raw materials) 

• Drinking water quality 

• Groundwater protection 

• Industrial chemical storage and use 

• Wastewater management (generation and disposal) 

Other aspects:

• Surface water and storm water runoff 

• Energy use 

• Water conservation 

• Electronics stewardship 

• Non-hazardous waste generation and management 

• Recycling and management of surplus property and materials 

• Purchase of materials and equipment 

17.2.3 Legal and Other Requirements 

To implement the compliance commitments of the NSTec Environmental Policy and to meet its legal requirements, 

NSTec monitors changes in federal, state, or local environmental regulations and DOE orders. These changes are 

communicated to affected parts of the company, along with recommended actions to satisfy the new requirements. 

These regulatory changes frequently require amendments to operating permits, modifications to recordkeeping or 

hours of operation, revisions to procedures, and upgrades to training. Execution plans identify requirements applicable to each NSTec-managed facility, project, and work activity by referencing the requirements in the NSTec Prime 

Contract that apply to that plan. Execution Plans are required to be reviewed annually and updated as necessary. 

17.2.4 Objectives, Targets, and Programs 

Objectives and targets are developed by NSTec on a fiscal year (FY) basis (October 1 through September 30) by first 

evaluating which aspects are considered significant, and then, with senior management input, setting objectives to 

improve performance with respect to those aspects. Finally, targets to meet the objectives are established by the 

operating organizations and their member of the EWG. The potential objectives and targets are then presented to the 

Executive Leadership Council for final selection and approval. Organizations within NSTec are assigned 

responsibility for each target and develop action plans detailing how they will achieve their objectives and targets and 

commit the necessary resources to successfully implement them. A company directive outlines the responsibilities of 

all organizations involved in establishing, tracking, and reporting progress on environmental targets. 

NSTec also works with U.S Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office 

(NNSA/NSO) to clearly define expectations and performance measures which directly address NNSA/NSO 

priorities and concerns. These activities that are associated with award and incentive fees are tracked by the NSTec 

Prime Contract Office. 

Objectives and targets established and implemented for FY 2007 are described in Table 17-1. The Objectives and 

targets established in 2007 for FY 2008 are described in Table 17-2.

Several environmental management programs exist throughout NSTec. These programs are discussed in sequential 

chapters of this report. 
17-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

 Table 17-1. FY 2007 EMS objectives and targets 

Environmental Aspect Objective Target Re

NEPA Compliance Maintain regulatory compliance 

without project delays 

Submit at least 80% of the NSTec NEPA checklists to NNSA/NSO at least two weeks prior to scheduled project start date 

MET TARGET – 98% 

were submitted with areview period. 

Meet regulatory deadline for polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) offsite shipment 

Ship PCB waste to the disposal facility before the 270th day of accumulation 

MET TARGET – Two and both were shipped generation. 

Improve affirmative procurement process 

Procure eligible items with recycled or bio-based content 

PARTIAL SUCCESS – for other just-in-time (Jsupplies with aim of imcatalog, and discouragitems. Future upgrades to Ormodule is needed for brecycled products. Affirmative procuremerequisitioners needs to Recycled toner cartridgavailable. 

Waste Generation and Management 

Increase recycling At the T-Tunnel cleanup site, recycle 

or salvage more material than what is sent to the landfill 

POSTPONED – Work sorting and disposal w2008. Target will be tra

Control purchase and distribution of all A-23 Warehouse 129 chemicals 

MET TARGET – This study using a bar-code 

Industrial Chemical Use Reduce chemical waste 

By April 2007, review all chemicals stored at the Non-Proliferation Test and Evaluation Complex and separate the stock or test chemicals from the excess chemicals. Set redistribution and disposal goals. 

MET TARGET – Deterof sodium cyanide was chemical. Manufacturreturn, and no interestmaterial will be dispos
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 17-5

Table 17-1. FY 2007 EMS objectives and targets (continued) 

Environmental Aspect Objective Target Res

Industrial Chemical Use Reduce stock of excess explosives Evaluate current amount of 

explosives and dispose of unneeded explosives 

MET TARGET – Some eused in training exercisedesignated as useful stocNevada approved a plan treatment) 105 pounds o

Drinking Water Quality Protect groundwater quality Plug 100 boreholes in accordance 

with the Borehole Management Plan 

MET TARGET – 108 bo

Improve permit recordkeeping and reporting to prevent exceeding limit on operating hours for certain fuel-burning equipment 

MET TARGET – All da

time and no operating h

Reduce the percentage of fuel consumed that is petroleum based 

MET TARGET – Slight of petroleum based fuel in place and Target will 

Reduce electrical energy use per gross square foot by 2% over FY 2006 

MET TARGET – Reduc

Air Quality Improve air quality 

Substitute smaller fuel-efficient vehicles for larger vehicles at the Area 5 Radioactive Waste Management Site 

MET TARGET – Over 8were saved by vehicle rereplacement.

Wastewater Management Conserve water Develop a system to collect and 

manage North Las Vegas Facility groundwater after pumping and beneficially use at least half of the water 

MET TARGET – 51% of used for beneficial purpterm collection system ato be cost-effective. 
17-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007

Table 17-2. FY 2008 Proposed Objectives and Targets Environmental Aspect Objective Target Waste Generation and Management Increase recycling During the T-Tunnel cleanup project, recycle at lea

non-radioactive material. Groundwater Protection Protect groundwater Prepare 100 old boreholes for plugging and plug 90 

Air Quality Increase the consumption of alternative fuels Increase alternative fuel use at the NTS by at least 1

usage. Reduce electrical energy use per gross square foot b

to the FY 2007 2% reduction goal baseline. Energy Use Reduce energy use Retrofit/install 200 individual building-smart electr

to identify those buildings where improvements ca

Purchase of Material and Equipment Lease environmentally friendly electronics Lease only computers that are Electronic Product E

Assessment Tool (EPEAT)-registered as existing onend of FY 2008, have 100% of leased desktops and 9be EPEAT-registered. 
Integrated Safety Management System and Environmental Management System 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 17-7 

17.2.5 Resources, Roles, Responsibilities, and Authorities 

All employees at NSTec have specific roles and responsibilities in key areas, including environmental protection. 

These are identified in company procedures and work packages. Employee-stop-work authority applies to potential 

environmental issues as well as health and safety problems. Job-specific environmental training is identified for 

workers and included on their company-required training matrix. NSTec Environmental Services (ES) technical 

support personnel assist the line organizations with developing and meeting their environmental responsibilities.

17.2.6 Competence, Training, and Awareness 

Extensive training on NSTec’s EMS requirements has been provided to staff whose responsibilities include 

environmental protection. The training program includes general environmental awareness for all employees, 

regulatory compliance training for selected staff, and specific courses for managers, internal assessors, and operations 

personnel whose work can impact the environment. In May 2007, all members of the EWG and other key 

environmental people attended a one-week training course on ISO 14001 Implementation and Auditing. In 2008, all 

upper and mid-level managers are scheduled to receive a four-hour ISO awareness briefing from an outside 

subcontractor, and all employees will receive an awareness briefing specific to the NSTec ISO 14001 program.

17.2.7 Communication 

NSTec communicates environmental issues to employees through e-mails, articles in newsletters, safety meetings, 

new-hire orientations, job hazard analyses, pre-task briefings, and company procedures. NSTec assists NNSA/NSO 

in soliciting input from interested external parties such as community members, activists, civic organizations, Indian 

tribes, elected officials, and regulators. This is accomplished primarily through Community Advisory Board (CAB) 

meetings. The CAB consists of 10–15 volunteer Nevada citizens who represent rural and urban areas. CAB meetings 

occur monthly and focus on the Environmental Management program and projects on site. Environmental 

Management also sponsors a Speakers Bureau which provides representatives a chance to give presentations to 

schools, groups, or organizations and sponsors community exhibits and displays for communicating NTS 

environmental issues and interacting one-on-one with the public. All external communications are coordinated 

through NNSA/NSO. 

17.2.8 Documentation 

NSTec has comprehensive environmental documents as part of the EMS which detail information on regulatory 

requirements, site-wide operating procedures, and work control procedures on how to control processes and perform 

work in a way that protects the environment. The current “Environmental Management System Description” was 

updated in 2007, and will be updated again in 2008 to incorporate the program improvements being made in pursuit 

of ISO Certification. 

17.2.9 Control of Documents 

The NSTec document control system ensures effective management of procedures and other requirements 

documents. When facilities require additional procedures to control their work, document control protocols are 

implemented to ensure that workers have access to the most current versions of procedures. Documents of longterm NNSA/NSO or NSTec interest are archived and are destroyed according to schedules mandated by federal laws. 
Integrated Safety Management System and Environmental Management System 

17-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

17.2.10 Operational Control 

Operations are evaluated through Hazard Assessments and work packages for the adequacy of current controls to 

prevent or minimize impacts to the environment. Task-specific procedures or work plans are developed when 

needed. Additional administrative or engineered controls are identified, and plans for upgrades and improvements are 

developed and implemented. Assessments are currently being performed to make sure that all environmental issues 

identified in upper-tier documents like Hazard Analyses are rolled down to the work level plans. Lessons learned and 

critiques are incorporated into work processes to continually improve environmental performance. 

17.2.11 Emergency Preparedness and Response 

NSTec has an emergency preparedness and response program and specialized onsite staff to provide timely response 

to hazardous materials releases or other environmental emergencies. There is a comprehensive NSTec Emergency 

Management Plan, and many facilities have a facility Emergency Management Plan where all credible scenarios are 

evaluated. These emergency plans are tested and evaluated at least annually, and improvements are made to the plans. 

This program includes procedures for preventing, as well as responding to, emergencies. Agreements are in place 

with outside emergency response agencies to support non-NTS facilities. 

17.2.12 Monitoring and Measurement 

NSTec has an extensive network of environmental compliance programs with defined monitoring, surveillance, and 

compliance and performance measures tracking (see Section 2.0, Compliance Summary). These programs help ensure 

the effectiveness of controls, adherence to regulatory requirements, and timely identification and implementation of 

corrective measures for all work performed by NSTec for NNSA/NSO. In addition to the monitoring programs, an 

independent program called the Community Environmental Monitoring Program, established by NNSA/NSO, 

monitors air and groundwater within communities adjacent to the NTS. Onsite and offsite monitoring and 

surveillance results are reported to regulatory agencies and are summarized annually in this report. Many of these 

monitoring activities are required by state or federal environmental operating permits. In addition, NSTec tracks and 

trends its progress and performance in achieving environmental objectives/targets and performance measures which 

are not strictly compliance-driven (see Table 17-1). 

17.2.13 Evaluation of Compliance 

NSTec has procedures for periodically evaluating its compliance with relevant environmental regulations. Line 

managers and facility managers periodically inspect their operations and facilities. NSTec ES and NNSA/NSO 

personnel also perform regulatory inspections and assessments in a particular topical area to verify the compliance 

status of multiple organizations, or a comprehensive assessment of a particular organization. Lastly, external 

regulatory agencies and/or technical experts frequently conduct independent audits of compliance. 

17.2.14 Nonconformity and Corrective and Preventive Actions 

NSTec continues to improve processes that identify and correct problems. Lessons Learned and Root Cause 

Analyses are used in an attempt to prevent recurrences of environmental problems and promote continual 

improvement. Any deficiencies resulting from incidents or assessments are entered into an electronic Web-based 

system, where corrective actions are identified and tracked until completed. 

17.2.15 Control of Records 

EMS-related records, including audit and training records, permits, waste manifests, waste characterization, and 

inspections are maintained according to federal standards and a formal NSTec records control procedure is followed 

to ensure integrity, facilitate retrieval, and protect them from loss. 
Integrated Safety Management System and Environmental Management System 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 17-9 

17.2.16 Internal Audit 

NSTec has used internal staff and subcontractors to identify the EMS elements that are fully implemented and those 

that still require strengthening. This is an ongoing activity intended to continually improve the environmental 

program. A comprehensive audit of the environmental program against the ISO 14001 requirements was started in 

December 2007 and completed in February 2008. This audit was conducted by the EWG under the direction of a 

lead auditor, and served as the last internal audit or assessment prior to the arrival of the ISO registrar in February 

2008. In addition, compliance with regulatory requirements is verified through routine inspections, operational 

evaluations, and periodic audits. 

17.2.17 Management Review 

The NSTec Senior Manager for Environment, Safety, Health & Quality (ESH&Q) will ensure periodic review of the 

EMS to ensure its continuing suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness. The review process is scheduled in the NSTec 

ESH&Q Execution Plan and documented. A management review of the EMS program is conducted monthly by the 

environmental staff and the Executive Leadership Council. Environmental issues are discussed and action items are 

assigned. This is a proceduralized process, and meeting minutes are kept to document continual improvement in the 

EMS. 
Integrated Safety Management System and Environmental Management System 

17-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 
Compliance Quality Assurance

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 18-1

18.0 Compliance Quality Assurance 

The National Security Technologies, LLC (NSTec), Quality Assurance Program (QAP) describes the system used by 

NSTec to ensure that quality is integrated into work performed under Prime Contract DE-AC52-06NA25946 and 

establishes the program requirements for compliance with: (1) Title 10 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 830, 

Subpart A, Quality Assurance Requirements; (2) U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Order 414.1C, Quality Assurance; and 

(3) other relevant requirements documents for the operation, process, or program to which they apply. The ten 

criteria established in 10 CFR 830 Subpart A and DOE Order 414.1C that are required as part of a quality program 

are shown in the box below. The NSTec QAP requires a graded approach to quality for determining the level of rigor 

that effectively provides assurance of performance and conformance to requirements. 

The Data Quality Objectives (DQO) process developed by 

the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is 

generally used to provide the quality assurance (QA) 

structure for designing, implementing, and improving upon 

environmental monitoring efforts when environmental 

sampling and analysis are involved. Sampling and Analysis 

Plans are developed prior to performing an activity to ensure 

complete understanding of the data use objectives. 

Personnel are trained and qualified in accordance with 

company and task-specific requirements. Access to 

sampling locations is coordinated with operations 

conducting work at or having authority over those locations 

in order to de-conflict activities and communicate hazards to 

better ensure successful execution of the work and the safety 

and health of sampling personnel. Sample collection 

activities adhere to organization instructions and/or 

procedures that are designed to ensure that samples are 

representative and data are reliable and defensible. Sample shipments on site and to offsite laboratories are conducted 

in accordance with the U.S. Department of Transportation and International Air Transport Association regulations, as 

applicable. Quality control (QC) in the analytical laboratories is maintained through adherence to standard operating 

procedures that are based on methodologies developed by nationally recognized organizations such as the EPA, 

DOE, and American Standard for Testing and Materials International. Key quality-affecting procedural areas cover 

sample collection, preparation, instrument calibration, instrument performance checking, testing for precision and 

accuracy, and laboratory data review. NSTec data users perform review as required by the project-specific objectives 

before the data are used to support decision making. 

The key elements of environmental monitoring process work flow are listed below. Each of these elements is 

designed to ensure the applicable QA requirements are implemented. A discussion of these elements follows. 

• A Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) is developed using the EPA DQO process to ensure clear goals and 

objectives are established for the environmental monitoring activity. The SAP is implemented in accordance with 

EPA, DOE, and other requirements addressing environmental, safety, and health concerns. 

• Environmental Sampling is performed in accordance with the SAP and site work controls to ensure 

defensibility of the resulting data products and protection of the workers and the environment. 

• Laboratory Analyses are performed to ensure that the resultant data meet DOE, NSTec, and regulatory-defined 

requirements. 

• Data Review is done to ensure that the SAP DQOs have been met, and thereby determine whether the data are 

suitable for their intended purpose. 

Required Criteria of a Quality Program 

• Quality assurance program 

• Personnel training and qualification 

• Quality improvement process 

• Documents and records 

• Established work processes 

• Established standards for design and 

verification 

• Established procurement requirements 

• Inspection and acceptance testing 

• Management assessment 

• Independent assessment 
Compliance Quality Assurance

18-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

• Assessments are employed to ensure that monitoring operations are conducted accordingly and that analytical 

data quality requirements are met in order to identify nonconforming items, investigate causal factors, implement 

corrective actions, and monitor for corrective action effectiveness. 

18.1 Sampling and Analysis Plan 

Most environmental monitoring is specifically mandated to demonstrate compliance with a variety of requirements 

including federal and state regulations, and DOE orders and standards. Developing the SAP with a DQO approach 

ensures those requirements are considered in the planning stage. The following statistical concepts and controls are 

vital in designing and evaluating the system design and implementation. 

18.1.1 Precision 

Precision is the degree to which a set of observations or measurements of the same property, obtained under similar 

conditions, conform to themselves; a data quality indicator. Precision is usually expressed as standard deviation, 

variance or range, in either absolute or relative terms (DOE, 2006c). 

Practically, precision is determined by comparing the results obtained from performing analyses on split or duplicate 

samples taken at the same time from the same location, and maintaining sampling and analytical conditions as nearly 

identical as possible. 

18.1.2 Accuracy 

Accuracy refers to the degree of agreement between an observed value and an accepted reference value. Accuracy 

includes a combination of random error (precision) and systematic error (bias) components that are due to sampling 

and analytical operations; a data quality indicator (DOE, 2006c). 

Accuracy related to the overall monitoring effort is evaluated by analyzing field sample results to determine whether 

the data points fall within acceptable statistical trends. Accuracy related to laboratory operations is monitored by 

performing measurements and evaluating results of control samples containing known quantities of the analytes of 

interest. 

18.1.3 Representativeness 

Representativeness is the degree to which a measurement is truly representative of the sampled medium (i.e., the 

degree to which measured analytical concentrations represent the concentrations in the medium being sampled) 

(Stanley and Verner, 1985). 

At each sampling point in the sampling and analysis process, subsamples of the medium of interest are obtained. The 

challenge is to ensure that each subsampling maintains the character of the larger sampled population. From a field 

sample collection standpoint, representativeness is managed through sampling plan design and execution. 

Representativeness related to laboratory operations concerns the ability to appropriately subsample and characterize 

for analytes of interest. For example, in order to ensure representative characterization of a heterogeneous matrix 

(soil, sludge, solids, etc.), the sampling and/or analysis process should evaluate whether homogenization or 

segregation should be employed prior to sampling or analysis. Water samples are generally considered homogeneous 

unless observation suggests otherwise. Each air monitoring station’s continuous operation at a fixed location results 

in representatively sampling the ambient atmosphere. Field sample duplicate analyses are additional controls allowing 

evaluation of representativeness and heterogeneity. 
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Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 18-3

18.1.4 Comparability 

Comparability refers to “the confidence with which one data set can be compared to another” (Stanley and Verner, 

1985). Comparability from an overall monitoring perspective is ensured by consistent execution of the sampling 

design concerning sample collection and handling, laboratory analyses, and data review. This is ensured through 

adherence to established procedures and standardized methodologies. 

18.2 Environmental Sampling 

Environmental samples are collected in support of various environmental programs. Each program executes the field 

sampling activities in accordance with the SAP to ensure usability and defensibility of the resulting data. The key 

elements supporting the quality and defensibility of the sampling process and products include: 

• Training and qualification 

• Procedures and methods 

• Field documentation 

• Inspection and Acceptance testing 

18.2.1 Training and Qualification 

The environmental programs ensure that personnel are properly trained and qualified prior to doing the work. In 

addition to procedure-specific and task-specific qualifications for performing work, training addresses environment, 

safety, and health aspects to ensure protection of the workers, the public, and the environment. Recurrent training is 

also conducted if necessary to maintain proficiency.

18.2.2 Procedures and Methods 

Sampling is conducted in accordance with established procedures to ensure consistent execution and continuous 

comparability of the environmental data. The methods to be used for sample analyses are also consulted in order to 

ensure that viable samples are obtained. 

18.2.3 Field Documentation 

Field documentation is generated for each sample collection activity, and may include chain of custody, sampling 

procedures, analytical methods, equipment and data logs, maps, Material Safety Data Sheets, and other materials 

needed to support the safe and successful execution and defense of the sampling effort. Chain of custody practices 

are employed from point of generation through disposal (cradle-to-grave) and are critical to defensibility of the 

decisions made as a result of the sampling and analysis. Sampling data and documentation are stored and archived in 

a manner that they are readily retrievable in the event they are needed at a later date. In many cases, these data may be 

managed in electronic data management systems for more convenient management of the data. Routine assessments 

or surveillances are performed to ensure that sampling activities are performed in accordance with applicable 

requirements. Deficiencies are noted, causal factors are determined, corrective actions are implemented, and followup assessments are performed to ensure effective resolution. This managed approach to sampling ensures the quality 

and defensibility of the decisions made on the resulting analytical data. 

18.2.4 Inspection and Acceptance Testing 

Sample collection data are reviewed for appropriateness, accuracy, and fit with historical measurements. In the case of 

groundwater sampling, real-time field measurements may be monitored during purging to determine when parameters 
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18-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

have stabilized, thereby indicating that the purge water is generally representative of the aquifer and sampling may 

begin. After a sampling activity is complete, data are reviewed to ensure the samples were collected in accordance 

with the SAP. Samples are further inspected to ensure the integrity has not been compromised, either physically 

(leaks, tears, breakage, custody seals) or administratively (labeled incorrectly) and that they are valid for supporting the 

intended analyses. If concerns are raised at any point during collection, the data user, in consideration of data 

usability, is consulted for direction on proceeding or canceling the subsequent analyses. 

18.3 Laboratory Analyses 

Samples are transported to a laboratory for characterization. Several NSTec organizations maintain measurement 

capabilities which are generally considered “screening” operations, and may be used to support planning or 

preliminary decision-making activities. However, unless specifically authorized by the U.S. Department of Energy, 

National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office or the regulator, all data used for reporting purposes are 

generated by a DOE and NSTec-qualified laboratory which have been obtained through subcontracts. Ensuring the 

quality of procured laboratory services is accomplished through focus on three specific areas: (1) procurement, (2) 

initial and continuing assessment, and (3) data evaluation. 

18.3.1 Procurement 

Laboratory services are procured through a request for proposal (RFP) and formal bid process, and are awarded on a 

“best value” basis. The RFP requires that a prospective vendor submit an in-depth proposal, which includes: 

• A Laboratory Quality Assurance Plan and/or Manual describing the laboratory’s policies and approach to the 

implementation of quality assurance requirements for ensuring the generation of data of a known quality 

• An Environment, Safety, and Health Plan 

• A Waste Management Plan 

• All procedures pertinent to subcontract scope 

• Examples of deliverables, both hard copy and electronic 

• Proficiency testing results from previous year participation in recognized proficiency testing programs 

• Resumés of those conducting the work 

• A description of the facility or its design, and instrumentation and capabilities 

• Licenses, accreditations, and certifications 

• Audits performed within the last year by the DOE Consolidated Audit Program (DOECAP), other DOE sites, or 

other audits covering comparable scope and acceptable to NSTec 

• Past performance surveys 

• Pricing 

Proposal evaluations are conducted and scored as explained to proposers in the RFP. A procurement representative 

evaluates pricing separately from the technical evaluation. The NSTec technical evaluation team does not receive 

pricing information. Rather, it bases its evaluation solely on technical capability. The results of the technical 

evaluation are then compiled with those of the pricing evaluation to ensure a “best-value” award is achieved. 

18.3.2 Initial and Continuing Assessment 

An initial assessment is made during the RFP process above, including a pre-award audit. If an acceptable audit has 

not been performed within the past year, NSTec will consider performing an audit (or participating in a DOECAP 

audit) of those laboratories awarded the contract. NSTec will not initiate work with a laboratory without authorized 

approval of those NSTec personnel responsible for ensuring vendor acceptability. 
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Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 18-5

A continuing assessment consists of the ongoing monitoring of a laboratory’s performance against contract terms and 

conditions, of which the technical specifications are a part. Tasks supporting continuing assessment are: 

• Conducting regular audits or participating in evaluation of DOECAP audit products 

• Monitoring for continued successful participation in proficiency testing programs such as: 

– National Institute of Standards and Technology Radiochemistry Intercomparison Program 

– Studies that support certification by the State of Nevada or appropriate regulatory authority for analyses 

performed in support of compliance monitoring 

• Monitoring of the laboratory’s adherence to the QA requirements 

18.3.3 Data Evaluation 

Data products are continuously evaluated for compliance with contract terms and specifications. This primarily 

involves review of the data against the specified analytical method to determine the laboratory’s ability to adhere to 

the QA/QC requirements as well as an evaluation of the data against the DQOs. This activity is discussed in further 

detail in Section 18.4. Any discrepancies are documented and resolved with the laboratory, and continuous 

assessment tracks the recurrence and efficacy of corrective actions. 

18.4 Data Review 

A systematic approach to thoroughly evaluating the data products generated from an environmental monitoring effort 

is essential for understanding and sustaining the quality of data collected under the program. This allows the 

programs to determine whether the DQOs established in the planning phase were achieved and whether the 

monitoring design performed as intended or requires review. 

Because decisions are based on environmental data, and the effectiveness of operations is measured at least in part by 

environmental data, reliable, accurate, and defensible records are essential. Detailed records that must be kept include 

temporal, spatial, numerical, geotechnical, chemical, and radiological data, and all sampling, analytical, and data review 

procedures used. Failure to maintain these records in a secure but accessible form may result in exposure to legal 

challenges and the inability to respond to demands or requests from regulators and other interested organizations. 

An electronic data management system is a key tool used by many programs for achieving standardization and 

integrity in managing environmental data. The primary objective is to store and manage in an easily and efficiently 

retrievable form unclassified environmental data that are directly or indirectly tied to monitoring events. This may 

include information on monitoring system construction (groundwater wells, ambient air monitoring), analytical, 

geotechnical, and field parameters at the Nevada Test Site. Database integrity and security are enforced through the 

assignment of role memberships and the provision of available menu items. 

18.4.1 Data Verification 

Data verification is defined as a subcontract compliance and completeness review to ensure that all laboratory data 

and sample documentation are present and complete. Additional critical sampling and analysis process information is 

also reviewed at this stage, which may include, but is not limited to, sample preservation and temperature, defensible 

chain-of-custody documentation and integrity, and analytical hold-time compliance. Data verification also ensures 

that electronic data products correctly represent the sampling and/or analyses performed and includes evaluation of 

QC sample results. 

18.4.2 Data Validation 

Data validation supplements verification and is a more thorough process of analytical data review to better determine 

if the data meet the analytical and project requirements. Data validation ensures that the reported results correctly 
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18-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

represent the sampling and analyses performed, determines the validity of the reported results, and assigns data 

qualifiers (or “flags”), if required. 

18.4.3 Data Quality Assessment (DQA) 

DQA is a scientific and statistical evaluation to determine if the data obtained from environmental operations are of 

the right type, quality, and quantity to support their intended use. The DQA includes reviewing data for accuracy, 

representativeness, and fit with historical measurements to ensure that the data will support their intended uses. 

18.5 Assessments 

The overall effectiveness of the environmental program is determined through routine surveillance and assessments of 

work execution as well as review of the program requirements. Deficiencies are identified, causal factors are 

investigated, corrective actions are developed and implemented, and follow-on monitoring is performed to ensure 

effective resolution. The assessments discussed below are broken down into general programmatic and focused 

measurement data areas. 

18.5.1 Programmatic 

Assessments and audits under this category include evaluations of the work planning, execution, and performance 

activities. Personnel independent of the work activity perform the assessments to evaluate compliance with 

established requirements and report on the identified deficiencies. Organizations responsible for the activity are 

required to develop and implement corrective actions, with the concurrence of the deficiency originator or recognized 

subject matter expert. NSTec maintains the companywide issues tracking system (called CaWeb) to manage 

assessments, findings, and corrective actions. 

18.5.2 Measurement Data 

This type of assessment includes routine evaluation of data generated from analyses of QC samples. QC sample data 

monitor the analytical control on a given batch of samples and are indicators over time of potential biases in 

laboratory performance. Discussion of the 2007 results for field duplicates, laboratory control samples, blank analysis, 

and inter-laboratory comparison studies are provided and summary tables are included below. 

18.5.2.1 Field Duplicates 

Samples obtained at approximately the same locations and times as initial samples are termed field duplicates and are 

used to evaluate the overall precision of the measurement process, including small-scale heterogeneity in the medium 

(air, soil, water, etc.) being sampled as well as analytical and sample preparation variation. The relative error ratio 

(RER) compares the absolute difference of initial and field duplicate measurements to a measure of the analytical 

uncertainty. The absolute relative percent difference (RPD) compares the absolute difference of initial and field 

duplicate measurements with the average of the two measurements; it is computed only from pairs for which both 

values are above their respective minimum detectable concentrations (MDCs). These are provided in Table 18.1. 

The average RPDs for 241Am and 239+240Pu in air are particularly high for 2007. In each case very few pairs had both 

observations above their respective MDCs. In one case (the March sampling for Gate 700 South) one value of the 

pair was quite high, due apparently to capturing a particle containing these analytes, whereas the other value was 

typical; hence the large RPDs for that pair of samples for these two analytes.
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Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 18-7

Table 18-1. Summary of field duplicate samples for compliance monitoring in 2007 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of 

Samples 

Reported(a) 

Number of 

Samples 

Reported above 

MDC(b)

Average Absolute 

RPD of those 

above MDC (%)(c)

Average 

Absolute 

RER(d)

Gross Alpha Air 101 13 19.9 0.32 

Gross Beta Air 101 100 8.1 0.41 

241Am Air 23 1 192.4 0.61 

7Be(e) Air 24 24 8.3 0.50 

40K(e) Air 18 4 32.2 0.44 

238Pu Air 24 0 - 0.41 

239+240Pu Air 24 3 93.5 0.89 

Tritium Air 49 20 13.9 0.49 

241Am Soil 1 1 45.9 2.70 

238Pu Soil 1 1 27.5 1.80 

239+240Pu Soil 1 1 0.6 0.05 

90Sr Soil 2 1 26.7 0.70 

241Am Water 1 1 18.7 0.70 

Gross Alpha Water 14 8 28.0 2.06 

Gross Beta Water 14 14 27.7 2.20 

238Pu Water 1 1 19.9 0.40 

239+240Pu Water 1 1 14.1 0.70 

90Sr Water 1 0 NA 0.90 

Tritium Water 27 5 4.9 0.60 

TLDs Ambient 

Radiation 

416 NA 2.5 0.23 

(a) Represents the number of field duplicates reported for the purpose of monitoring precision. If an associated field sample

was not processed, the field duplicate was not included in this table.

(b) Represents the number of field duplicate-field sample result sets with both values above their minimum detectable 

concentrations (MDC). The MDC does not apply to thermoluminescent dosimeter measurements. If either the field 

sample or its duplicate was reported below the MDC, the RPD was not determined. 

(c) Reflects the average absolute RPD calculated as follows: 

 

 

Where: S = Sample result 

 D = Duplicate result 

(d) Relative error ratio (RER) determined by the following equation is used to determine whether a sample result and the 

associated field duplicate result differ significantly when compared to their respective one sigma uncertainties. The RER 

is calculated for all sample and field duplicate pairs reported without regard to the MDC. 

 

Where: S = Sample result 

 D = Duplicate result 

 TPUS = 1 sigma total propagated uncertainty of the field sample 

 TPUD = 1 sigma total propagated uncertainty of the field duplicate 

(e) 7Be and 40K are naturally occurring analytes included for quality assessment of the gamma spectroscopy analyses. 

100

( ) / 2

| | X

D S

D S Absolute RPD

+

− =

( )( ) 2 2

| |

TPU S TPU D

S D Absolute RER

+

− =
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18-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

18.5.2.2 Laboratory Control Samples (LCSs) 

An LCS is a sample matrix, free from the analytes of interest, spiked with verified known amounts of analytes or a 

material containing known and verified amounts of analytes. It is generally used to establish intra-laboratory or 

analyst-specific precision and bias or to assess the performance of all or a portion of the measurement system 

(DOE, 2006c). 

The results are calculated as a percentage of the true value, and must fall within established control limits (or 

percentage range) to be considered acceptable. If the LCS recovery falls outside control limits, evaluation for 

potential sample data bias is necessary. The numbers of 2007 LCSs analyzed and within control limits are summarized 

in Table 18-2. 

 Table 18-2. Summary of LCSs for 2007 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of LCS 

Results Reported 

Number Within 

Control Limits 

Control Limits 

(%) 

Radiological Analyses 

239+240Pu Air 46 45 70-130 

241Am Air 69 69 70-130 

137Cs Air 31 31 70-130 

60Co Air 31 31 70-130 

Tritium Air 30 30 70-130 

Gross Alpha Water 15 15 70-130 

Gross Beta Water 15 15 70-130 

239+240Pu Water 18 18 70-130 

Tritium Water 40 40 70-130 

90Sr Water 12 12 70-130 

241Am Water 12 12 70-130 

137Cs Water 14 14 70-130 

60Co Water 14 14 70-130 

90Sr Soil 5 5 70-130 

239+240Pu Soil 7 7 70-130 

241Am Soil 15 15 70-130 

60Co Soil 8 8 70-130 

137Cs Soil 8 8 70-130 

Nonradiological Analyses 

Metals Water 164 163 80-120 

Volatiles Water 321 298 70-130 

Semi Volatiles Water 277 276 Laboratory specific 

Miscellaneous Water 239 239 80-120 

Metals Soil 41 41 75-125 

Volatiles Soil 39 37 70-130 

Semi Volatiles Soil 52 46 Laboratory specific 

18.5.2.3 Blank Analysis 

In general terms, a blank is a sample that has not been exposed to the analyzed sample stream in order to monitor 

contamination during sampling, transport, storage, or analysis. The blank is subjected to the usual analytical and 

measurement process to establish a zero baseline or background value and is sometimes used to adjust or correct 

routine analytical results (DOE, 2006c).
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Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 18-9

Laboratory method blank data are summarized in Table 18-3. A method blank is a sample of a matrix similar to the 

batch of associated samples (when available) that is free from the analytes of interest and is processed simultaneously 

with and under the same conditions as samples through all steps of the analytical procedures, and in which no target 

analytes or interferences are present at concentrations that impact the analytical results for sample analyses 

(DOE, 2006c). 

 Table 18-3. Summary of laboratory blank samples for 2007 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of Blank 

Results Reported 

Number Within 

Control Limits(a)

Radiological Analyses 

239+240Pu Air 30 30 

137Cs Air 31 30 

241Am Air 54 50 

Tritium Air 43 39 

7 Be Air 31 31 

238 Pu Air 32 31 

Gross Alpha Water 15 14 

Gross Beta Water 15 14 

60Co Water 14 14 

239+240Pu Water 12 12 

Tritium Water 19 19 

90Sr Water 8 8 

241Am Water 15 15 

238 Pu Water 12 12 

238 Pu Soil 7 7 

241Am Soil 15 14 

90Sr Soil 5 5 

239+240Pu Soil 7 7 

60Co Soil 8 8 

 Nonradiological Analyses

Number of Results 

< Reporting Limit

Metals Water 171 137 

Volatiles Water 291 289 

Semi Volatiles Water 181 181 

Miscellaneous Water 162 161 

Metals Soil 85 67 

Volatiles Soil 40 39 

Semi Volatiles Soil 50 49 

(a) Indicates the numbers of results reported less than the MDC (radiochemistry) or 

 the reporting limit (non-radiochemistry) 

18.5.2.4 Proficiency Testing Program Participation 

Laboratories are required to participate in Proficiency Testing Programs. Laboratory performance supports decisions 

on work distribution and may also be a basis for state certifications. Table 18-4 presents the 2007 results for the 

Mixed Analyte Performance Evaluation Program (MAPEP) administered by the Radiological and Environmental 

Sciences Laboratory of the Idaho National Laboratory. 
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18-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

 Table 18-4. Summary of 2007 radiological MAPEP reports 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of 

Results Reported 

Number Within 

Control Limits(a)

Radiological Analyses

Gross Alpha Filter 2 2 

Gross Beta Filter 2 2 

60Co Filter 3 3 

137Cs Filter 3 3 

241Am Filter 3 3 

239+240Pu Filter 3 3 

Gross Alpha Water 3 3 

Gross Beta Water 3 3 

60Co Water 3 3 

137Cs Water 3 3 

241Am Water 3 3 

239+240Pu Water 3 3 

90Sr Water 3 3 

Tritium Water 3 3 

60Co Vegetation 3 3 

137Cs Vegetation 3 3 

241Am Vegetation 3 3 

239+240Pu Vegetation 3 3 

90Sr Vegetation 3 3 

60Co Soil 3 3 

137Cs Soil 3 3 

241Am Soil 3 3 

239+240Pu Soil 3 3 

90Sr Soil 3 3 

Nonradiological Analyses

Metals Water 16 16 

Semi Volatiles Water 51 51 

Metals Soil 16 15 

Semi Volatiles Soil 35 33 

(a) Control limits are determined by the individual inter-laboratory comparison study 

Table 18-5 shows the summary of inter-laboratory comparison sample results for the NSTec Radiological Health 

Dosimetry Group. This internal evaluation was based on National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program 

(NVLAP) criteria. The Dosimetry Group participated in the Battelle Pacific Northwest National Laboratory 

performance evaluation study program during the course of the year. 

 Table 18-5. Summary of inter-laboratory comparison TLD samples for the subcontract 

 dosimetry group in 2007 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of 

Results Reported 

Number Within 

Control Limits(a)

TLD Ambient Radiation 35 35 

 (a) Based upon NVLAP criteria; absolute value of the bias plus one standard deviation < 0.3 
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Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 19-1

19.0 Quality Assurance Program for the 

Community Environmental Monitoring Program 

The Community Environmental Monitoring Program (CEMP) Quality Assurance Program Plan (QAPP) was 

followed for the collection and analysis of radiological air and water data presented in Section 6.0 of this report. The 

CEMP QAPP ensures compliance with U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Order 414.1A, Quality Assurance, which 

implements a quality management system ensuring the generation and use of quality data. This QAPP addresses the 

following items previously defined in Section 18.0: 

• Data Quality Objectives (DQOs) 

• Sampling plan development appropriate to satisfy the DQOs 

• Environmental health and safety 

• Sampling plan execution 

• Sample analyses 

• Data review

• Continuous improvement

19.1 Data Quality Objectives 

The DQO process is a strategic planning approach that is used to plan data collection activities. It provides a 

systematic process for defining the criteria that a data collection design should satisfy. These criteria include when 

and where samples should be collected, how many samples to collect, and the tolerable level of decision errors for the 

study. DQOs are unique to the specific data collection or monitoring activity, and are further explained in 

Appendices A through E of the Routine Radiological Environmental Monitoring Plan (DOE, 2003a). 

19.2 Measurement Quality Objectives (MQOs) 

The MQOs are basically equivalent to DQOs for analytical processes. The MQOs provide direction to the laboratory 

concerning performance objectives or requirements for specific method performance characteristics. Default MQOs 

are established in the subcontract with the laboratory, but may be altered in order to satisfy changes in the DQOs. 

The MQOs for the CEMP project are described in terms of precision, accuracy, representativeness, completeness, and 

comparability requirements. These terms are defined and discussed in Section 18.1 for onsite activities. 

19.3 Sampling Quality Assurance Program 

Quality Assurance (QA) in field operations for the CEMP includes sampling assessments, surveillances, and oversight 

of the following supporting elements: 

• The sampling plan, DQOs, and field data sheets accompanying the sample package 

• Database support for field and laboratory results, including systems for long-term storage and retrieval 

• A training program to ensure that qualified personnel are available to perform required tasks 

Sample packages include the following items: 

• Station manager checklist confirming all observable information pertinent to sample collection 

• An Air Surveillance Network Sample Data Form documenting air sampler parameters, collection dates and times, 

and total sample volumes collected 

• Chain-of-custody forms 
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19-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

This managed approach to sampling ensures that the sampling is traceable and enhances the value of the final data 

available to the project manager. The sample package also ensures that the station manager Community 

Environmental Monitor (CEM) (see Section 6.0 for description of CEMs) has followed proper procedures for sample 

collection. The CEMP Project Manager or QA Officer routinely performs assessments of the station managers and 

field monitors to ensure that standard operating procedures and sampling protocol are being followed properly. 

Data obtained in the course of executing field operations are entered in the documentation accompanying the sample 

package during sample collection and in the CEMP database along with analytical results upon their receipt and 

evaluation. 

Completed sample packages are kept as hard copy in file archives. Analytical reports are kept as hard copy in file 

archives as well as compact disk-read only memory by calendar year. Analytical reports and databases are protected 

and maintained in accordance with the Desert Research Institute’s (DRI’s) Computer Protection Program. 

19.4 Laboratory QA Oversight 

CEMP ensures that DOE Order 414.1A, Quality Assurance, requirements are met with respect to laboratory services 

through review of the vendor laboratory policies formalized in a Laboratory Quality Assurance Plan (LQAP). CEMP 

is assured of obtaining quality data from laboratory services through a multifaceted approach involving specific 

procurement protocols, the conduct of quality assessments, and requirements for selected laboratories to have an 

acceptable QA program. These elements are discussed below. 

19.4.1 Procurement 

Laboratory services are procured through subcontracts. The subcontract establishes the technical specifications 

required of the laboratory and provides the basis for determining compliance with those requirements and evaluating 

overall performance. The subcontract is awarded on a “best value” basis as determined by pre-award audits. The 

prospective vendor is required to provide a review package to CEMP that includes the following items: 

• All procedures pertinent to subcontract scope 

• Environment, Safety, and Health Plan 

• LQAP 

• Example deliverables (hard copy and/or electronic) 

• Proficiency testing (PT) results from the previous year from recognized PT programs 

• Resumes 

• Facility design/description 

• Accreditations and certifications 

• Licenses 

• Audits performed by an acceptable DOE program covering comparable scope 

• Past performance surveys 

• Pricing 

CEMP evaluates the review package in terms of technical capability. Vendor selection is based solely on these 

capabilities and not biased by pricing. 

19.4.2 Initial and Continuing Assessment 

An initial assessment of a laboratory is managed through the procurement process above, including a pre-award audit. 

Pre-award audits are conducted by CEMP (usually by the CEMP QA Officer). In no instance shall CEMP initiate 

work with a laboratory without approval of the CEMP Program Manager. 
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Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 19-3

A continuing assessment of a selected laboratory involves ongoing monitoring of a laboratory’s performance against 

the contract terms and conditions, of which technical specifications are a part. Tasks supporting continuing 

assessment are: 

• Tracking schedule compliance 

• Review of analytical data deliverables 

• Monitoring of the laboratory’s adherence to the LQAP 

• Conducting regular audits 

• Monitoring for continued successful participation in approved PT programs 

19.4.3 Laboratory QA Program 

The laboratory policies and approach to the implementation of DOE Order 414.1A must be verified in a LQAP 

prepared by the laboratory. The elements of a LQAP required for the CEMP are similar to those required by 

National Security Technologies, LLC, for onsite monitoring, and are described in Section 18.3.3. 

19.5 Data Review 

Essential components of process-based QA are data checks, verification, validation, and data quality assessment to 

evaluate data quality and usability. 

Data Checks – Data checks are conducted to ensure accuracy and consistency of field data collection operations 

prior to and upon data entry into CEMP databases and data management systems. 

Data Verification – Data verification is defined as a subcontract compliance and completeness review to ensure that 

all laboratory data and sample documentation are present and complete. Sample preservation, chain-of-custody, and 

other field sampling documentation shall be reviewed during the verification process. Data verification ensures that 

the reported results entered in CEMP databases correctly represent the sampling and/or analyses performed and 

includes evaluation of quality control (QC) sample results. 

Data Validation – Data validation is the process of reviewing a body of analytical data to determine if it meets the 

data quality criteria defined in operating instructions (OIs). Data validation ensures that the reported results correctly 

represent the sampling and/or analyses performed, determines the validity of the reported results, and assigns data 

qualifiers (or “flags”), if required. The process of data validation consists of: 

• Evaluating the quality of the data to ensure that all project requirements are met 

• Determining the impact on data quality of those requirements if they are not met 

• Verifying compliance with QA requirements 

• Checking QC values against defined limits 

• Appling qualifiers to analytical results in the CEMP databases for the purposes of defining the limitations in the 

use of the reviewed data 

OIs, procedures, applicable project specific work plans, field sampling plans, QAPPs, analytical method references, 

and laboratory statements of work may all be used in the process of data validation. Documentation of data 

validation includes checklists, qualifier assignments, and summary forms. 

Data Quality Assessment – Data Quality Assessment (DQA) is the scientific evaluation of data to determine if the 

data obtained from environmental data operations are of the right type, quality, and quantity to support their intended 

use. DQA review is a systematic review against pre-established criteria to verify that the data are valid for their 

intended use. 
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19-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

19.6 QA Program Assessments 

The overall effectiveness of the QA program is determined through management and independent assessment as 

defined in the CEMP QAPP. These assessments evaluate the plan execution work-flow (sampling plan development 

and execution, chain-of-custody, sample receiving, shipping, subcontract laboratory analytical activities, and data 

review) as well as program requirements as it pertains to the organization. 

19.7 2007 Sample QA Results 

QA procedures were performed by the CEMP, including the laboratories responsible for sample analyses. These 

assessments ensure that sample collection procedures, analytical techniques, and data provided by the subcontracted 

laboratories comply with CEMP requirements. Data were provided by Severn Trent Laboratories (renamed 

Testamerica in September 2007) and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Radiation Services Laboratory (gross 

alpha/beta and gamma spectroscopy data), Global Dosimetry Solutions (thermoluminescent dosimeter [TLD] data), 

and the University of Miami Tritium Laboratory (tritium data). A brief discussion of the 2007 results for field duplicates, laboratory control samples, blank analysis, and inter-laboratory comparison studies is provided along with 

summary tables within this section. The 2007 CEMP radiological air and water monitoring data are presented in 

Section 6.0. 

19.7.1 Field Duplicates (Precision) 

A field duplicate is a sample collected, handled, and analyzed following the same procedures as the primary sample. 

The relative percent difference (RPD) between the field duplicate result and the corresponding field sample result is a 

measure of the variability in the process caused by the sampling uncertainty (matrix heterogeneity, collection variables, etc.) and measurement uncertainty (field and laboratory) used to arrive at a final result. The average absolute 

RPD, expressed as a percentage, was determined for the calendar year 2007 samples and is listed in Table 19-1. An 

RPD of zero indicates a perfect duplication of results of the duplicate pair, whereas an RPD greater than 100 percent 

generally indicates that a duplicate pair falls beyond QA requirements and are not considered valid for use in data 

interpretation. These samples are further evaluated to determine the reason for QA failure and if any corrective 

actions are required. Overall, the RPD values for all analyses indicate very good results, with only eight alpha 

duplicates exceeding an RPD of 100 percent. 

Table 19-1. Summary of field duplicate samples for oversight monitoring in 2007 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of 

Samples 

Reported(a) 

Number of 

Samples Reported 

above MDC(b)

Average Absolute 

RPD of those 

above MDC (%)(c)

Gross Alpha Air 148 144 36.9 

Gross Beta Air 148 148 11.6 

Gamma - Beryllium-7 Air 12 12 12.2 

Tritium Water 4 0 not applicable 

TLDs Ambient Radiation 12 12 6.0 

(a) Represents the number of field duplicates reported for the purpose of monitoring precision. If an 

 associated field sample was not processed, the field duplicate was not included in this table. 

(b) Represents the number of field duplicate-field sample result sets reported above the minimum detectable 

concentration (MDC) (MDC is not applicable for TLDs). If either the field sample or its duplicate was reported 

below the detection limit, the precision was not determined. 

(c) Reflects the average absolute RPD calculated for those field duplicates reported above the MDC. 

 The absolute RPD calculation is as follows: 

 Where: FD = Field duplicate result 

 FS = Field sample result 

100 %

( ) / 2

| | X

FD FS

FD FS Absolute RPD

+

− =
Oversight Quality Assurance Program for CEMP

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 19-5

19.7.2 Laboratory Control Samples (Accuracy) 

Laboratory control samples (LCSs) (a.k.a. matrix spikes) are performed by the subcontract laboratory to evaluate 

analytical accuracy, which is the degree of agreement of a measured value with the true or expected value. Samples of 

known concentration are analyzed using the same methods as employed for the project samples. The results are 

determined as the measured value divided by the true value, expressed as a percent. To be considered valid, the 

results must fall within established control limits (or percentage range) for further analyses to be performed. The LCS 

results obtained for 2007 are summarized in Table 19-2. The LCS results were satisfactory with only 2 percent of the 

alpha control samples falling outside of control parameters for the air sample matrix. 

Table 19-2. Summary of laboratory control samples (LCS) for oversight monitoring in 2007 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of LCS 

Results Reported 

Number Within 

Control Limits(a)

Gross Alpha Air 104 104 

Gross Beta Air 104 104 

Gamma Air 8 8 

Tritium Water 5 5 

(a) Control limits are as follows: 80 to 120 percent for gross alpha, 80 to 120 percent for gross beta, 80 to 

114 percent for gamma (137Cs, 60Co, 241Am), 80 to 120 percent for tritium. 

19.7.3 Blank Analysis 

Laboratory blank sample analyses are essentially the opposite of control samples discussed in Section 19.7.2. These 

samples do not contain any of the analyte of interest. Results of these analyses are expected to be “zero,” or more 

accurately, below the MDC of a specific procedure. Blank analysis and control samples are used to evaluate overall 

laboratory procedures, including sample preparation and instrument performance. The laboratory blank sample 

results obtained for 2007 are summarized in Table 19-3. The laboratory blank results were satisfactory with less than 

5 percent of the alpha and beta blank samples outside of control parameters for the air sample matrix. 

Table 19-3. Summary of laboratory blank samples for oversight monitoring in 2007 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of Blank 

Results Reported 

Number Within 

Control Limits(a)

Gross Alpha Air 102 96 

Gross Beta Air 102 100 

Gamma Air 8 8 

Tritium Water 5 4 

(a) Control limit is less than the MDC. 

19.7.4 Inter-laboratory Comparison Studies 

Inter-laboratory comparison studies are conducted by the subcontracted laboratories to evaluate their performance 

relative to other laboratories providing the same service. These types of samples are commonly known as “blind’ 

samples, in which the expected values are known only to the program conducting the study. The analyses are 

evaluated and, if found satisfactory, the laboratory is certified that its procedures produce reliable results. The 

inter-laboratory comparison sample results obtained for 2007 are summarized in Tables 19-4 and 19-5. Note: the 

subcontract tritium laboratory did not participate in any of these programs. 
Oversight Quality Assurance Program for CEMP

19-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Table 19-4 shows the summary of inter-laboratory comparison sample results for the Subcontract Radiochemistry 

Laboratory. The Laboratory participated in the Quality Assurance Program administered by Environmental Research 

Associates (ERA) and the Mixed Analyte Performance Evaluation Program (MAPEP) for gross alpha, gross beta, and 

gamma analyses. The subcontractors performed very well during the year by passing all of the parameters analyzed. 

Table 19-5 shows the summary of the in-house performance evaluation results conducted by the Subcontract 

Dosimetry Group. This internal evaluation was based on National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program 

(NVLAP) criteria and was performed biannually. The Dosimetry Group performed very well during the year passing 

20 out of 20 TLDs analyzed. 

Table 19-4. Summary of inter-laboratory comparison samples of the subcontract radiochemistry 

laboratory for oversight monitoring in 2007 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of 

Results Reported 

Number Within 

Control Limits(a)

MAPEP and ERA Results 

Gross Alpha Air 2 2 

Gross Beta Air 2 2 

Gamma Air 2 2 

(a) Control limits are determined by the individual inter-laboratory comparison study. 

Table 19-5. Summary of inter-laboratory comparison TLD samples of the subcontract dosimetry 

group for oversight monitoring in 2007 

Analysis Matrix 

Number of 

Results Reported 

Number Within 

Control Limits(a)

TLDs Ambient Radiation 20 20 

(a) Based upon NVLAP criteria; absolute value of the bias plus one standard deviation < 0.3. 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 A-i 

 Appendix A 

A.0 Offsite Facilities 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

A-ii Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

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Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 A-iii

Table of Contents 

A.0 Appendix A: Offsite Facilities ....................................................................................................................A-1 

A.1 North Las Vegas Facility.................................................................................................................A-1 

A.1.1 Compliance with Water Permits ......................................................................................A-1 

A.1.1.1 Wastewater Contribution Permit VEH-112 ..................................................A-3 

A.1.1.2 National Pollution Discharge Elimination System 

Permit NV0023507............................................................................................A-3 

A.1.2 Groundwater Control Study and Dewatering Operations...........................................A-4 

A.1.2.1 Background.........................................................................................................A-4 

A.1.2.2 Groundwater Monitoring .................................................................................A-5 

A.1.2.3 Building A-1 Sump Well ...................................................................................A-8 

A.1.3 Compliance with Air Quality Permits .............................................................................A-8 

A.1.4 Compliance with Hazardous Materials Regulations......................................................A-8 

A.1.5 Compliance with Radiation Protection Regulations .....................................................A-9 

A.1.5.1 National Emission Standards for Hazardous 

Air Pollutants (NESHAP) ................................................................................A-9 

A.1.5.2 DOE Order 5400.5............................................................................................A-9 

A.2 Cheyenne Las Vegas Facility ..........................................................................................................A-9 

A.3 Remote Sensing Laboratory-Nellis..............................................................................................A-10 

A.3.1 Compliance with Wastewater Contribution Permit CCWRD-080 ...........................A-10 

A.3.2 Compliance with Air Quality Permits ...........................................................................A-11 

A.3.3 Compliance with Hazardous Materials Regulations....................................................A-12 

A.3.4 Compliance with Waste Management Regulations .....................................................A-12 

List of Figures 

Figure A-1 Location of offsite facilities in Las Vegas and North Las Vegas..............................................A-2

Figure A-2 Location of existing and new dewatering wells around Building A-1......................................A-6

List of Tables 

Table A-1 Environmental permits for NLVF in 2007..................................................................................A-1 

Table A-2 Results of 2007 monitoring at NLVF for Wastewater Contribution Permit VEH-112........A-3 

Table A-3 NPDES Noncompliances...............................................................................................................A-3 

Table A-4 NPDES Permit NV0023507 monitoring requirements and 2007 sampling results ..............A-7 

Table A-5 Tons of criteria air pollutant and HAPs emissions estimated for NLVF in 2007..................A-8 

Table A-6 Results of 2007 direct radiation exposure monitoring at NLVF ..............................................A-9 

Table A-7 Environmental permits for RSL-Nellis in 2007 ....................................................................... A-10 

Table A-8 Mean concentration of outfall measurements at RSL-Nellis in 2007 ................................... A-11 

Table A-9 Summary of air emissions for RSL-Nellis in 2007................................................................... A-11 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

A-iv Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

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Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 A-1

Appendix A: Offsite Facilities 

This appendix describes all environmental monitoring and compliance activities conducted in 2007 at three facilities 

off of the Nevada Test Site (NTS). The U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration 

Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) manages these facilities in support of NNSA/NSO missions. They include the 

North Las Vegas Facility (NLVF), Cheyenne Las Vegas Facility (CLVF), and Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL)-

Nellis. They are all located in Clark County (Figure A-1). 

A.1 North Las Vegas Facility 

The NLVF is a fenced complex composed of 31 buildings which house much of the NTS project management, 

diagnostic development and testing, design, engineering, and procurement. The 80-acre facility is located along 

Losee Road, a short distance west of Interstate 15 (Figure A-1). The facility is buffered on the north, south, and east 

by general industrial zoning. The western border separates the property from fully developed, single-family 

residential-zoned property. The NLVF is a controlled-access facility. 

Environmental compliance and monitoring activities associated with this facility in 2007 included the maintenance of 

one wastewater permit, one National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, one air quality 

operating permit, one hazardous materials permit (Table A-1), and the monitoring of tritium in air and ambient 

gamma-emissions to comply with radiation protection regulations. 

Table A-1. Environmental permits for NLVF in 2007 

Permit Number Description Expiration Date Reporting

Wastewater Discharge 

 VEH-112 NLVF Wastewater Contribution Permit December 31, 2007 Annually 

 NV0023507 NLVF NPDES Permit November 2, 2011 Quarterly 

Air Quality 

 Facility 657, Mod. 2 Clark County Authority to Construct/ 

Operating Permit for a Testing Laboratory None March 

Hazardous Materials 

 2287-5144 NLVF Hazardous Materials Permit February 28, 2007 Annually 

A.1.1 Compliance with Water Permits 

Wastewater permits in 2007 for NLVF included a Class II Wastewater Contribution Permit with the City of North 

Las Vegas (CNLV) for sewer discharges and an NPDES permit issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

(EPA) used in dewatering operations to control rising groundwater levels that surround the facility. 

Discharges of sewage and industrial wastewater from NLVF are required to meet permit limits set by the CNLV. 

These limits support the permit limits for the Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) operated by the City of 

Las Vegas. Regulations for wastewater discharges are codified in the municipal codes for both cities. 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

A-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Figure A-1. Location of NTS offsite facilities in Las Vegas and North Las Vegas 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 A-3

A.1.1.1 Wastewater Contribution Permit VEH-112 

This permit specifies concentration limits for contaminants in domestic and industrial wastewater discharges. 

Self-monitoring and reporting of the levels of nonradiological contaminants in sewage and industrial outfalls is 

conducted. In 2007, contaminant concentrations (in milligrams per liter [mg/L]) were below established permit limits 

in all water samples from all NLVF outfalls (Table A-2). In compliance with this permit, a report summarizing 

wastewater monitoring was generated for NLVF operations and was submitted on October 17, 2007 to CNLV. The 

report is titled Self-Monitoring Report for the National Nuclear Security Administration’s North Las Vegas Facility: Permit VEH-112. 

 Table A-2. Results of 2007 monitoring at NLVF for Wastewater Contribution Permit VEH-112 

Contaminant 

Permit Limit 

 (mg/L) 

Outfall A 

(mg/L)

Outfall B 

(mg/L)

Outfall C2 

(mg/L)

Ammonia 61 29.4 11.2 0.44 

Barium 13.1 0.112 0.172 0.110 

BOD 600 140.0 230 5.6 

Cadmium 0.15 < 0.0004 < 0.0004 < 0.0004 

Chromium (hexavalent) 0.10 < 0.01 < 0.01 < 0.01

Chromium (total) 5.60 0.0013 0.0013 0.0090 

Copper 0.60 0.1360 0.22 0.0574 

Cyanide (total) 19.9 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 

Lead 0.20 < 0.0029 0.0033 0.0031 

Nickel 1.10 0.0044 0.0041 0.0068 

Oil & Grease (animal or vegetable) 250 13.9 11.6 <0.005 

pH (Standard Units) 5.0–11.0 8.43 8.35 7.56 

Phenols 33.6 0.0741 0.0266 < 0.02 

Phosphorus (total) 14.0 4.40 3.2 1.2 

Silver 2.70 < 0.0008 < 0.0008 < 0.0008 

TDS (total dissolved solids) 1200 838 985 866 

TSS (total suspended solids) 750 84.4 92.7 9.00 

Zinc 8.20 0.167 0.320 0.140 

A.1.1.2 National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Permit NV0023507 

An NPDES permit (NV0023507) covered the groundwater characterization study and remedial dewatering operation 

conducted in 2007 at the NLVF (see Section A.1.2 below). This permit authorizes NNSA/NSO to discharge water 

from dewatering operations to the groundwater of the state via percolation and to the Las Vegas Wash via the CNLV 

storm drain system. Onsite discharge may continue for irrigation of landscape and for dust suppression. Water 

produced from the dewatering wells may also be used for purposes that do not require a groundwater discharge or an 

NPDES permit (e.g., evaporative cooling). The volume of water pumped was reported quarterly to the state per the 

requirements of the permit (Table A-3). 

Table A-3. NPDES Noncompliances 

Permit Type Outfall Parameter 

Number 

of Permit 

Exceedances 

Number of 

Samples 

Taken 

Number of 

Compliant

Samples 

Percent 

Compliance 

Date(s) 

Exceeded 

Description/ 

Solution 

NV0023507 001 Discharge 

volume NA 12 (1/month) 12 100 NA NA 

NA = not applicable 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

A-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

A.1.2 Groundwater Control Study and Dewatering Operations 

During 2007, the groundwater control study and dewatering operation at the NLVF continued efforts to reduce the 

intrusion of groundwater below Building A-1. A total of four dewatering wells are now active, producing about 8,970 

liters (L) (2,370 gallons [gal]) per day. The project, in general, has transitioned from initial groundwater investigations 

and characterization phases to a long-term/permanent dewatering operational mode. The project also transitioned 

from short-term (six month), renewable temporary discharge permits to a long-term (five year) NPDES permit that 

allows for discharge into the CNLV storm water drainage system. Routine water chemistry monitoring indicates that 

the quality of the water pumped continues to meet the Safe Drinking Water Standards. 

Work performed in 2007 is summarized here following a review of the rising groundwater situation and past efforts to 

understand and remediate the problem. More information regarding this project, including maps, figures, and data is 

reported in previous annual reports (e.g., Bechtel Nevada [BN], 2003; 2004; 2005b; National Security Technologies, 

LLC [NSTec], 2006). 

A.1.2.1 Background 

Rising groundwater below Building A-1 at the NLVF intruded into the elevator pit in 1999. Between November 1999 

and January 2001, the water level in a well installed in the basement of Building A-1 rose at a rate of 0.61 meters (m) 

(2 feet [ft]) per year (BN, 2001), and slowed to less than 0.3 m (1.0 ft) per year by the end of 2003 (BN, 2003). Sealing 

of the elevator pit and interim pumping at the nearby basement sump slowed the encroaching water. However, if the 

water level is not lowered, it could jeopardize the integrity of the deep-footed infrastructure (e.g., elevator pits, utility 

trenches, foundation footers). Subsequent groundwater studies have guided the current dewatering initiative. These 

hydrogeologic investigations and initial dewatering efforts were reported in the 2004 and 2005 NTS environmental 

reports (U.S. Department of Energy [DOE], 2005; 2006a, respectively). 

In 2002 and 2003, BN conducted a groundwater control study. This comprehensive investigation included the 

installation of 25 wells, soil and water sampling, hydrologic testing, and rudimentary modeling (BN, 2003). The study 

indicated a complex hydrogeologic setting and implicated multiple factors for the rise of the water table. The 

preliminary geologic interpretation of borehole data indicates that the fine-grained sediments encountered represent a 

low-energy, mid-valley alluvial and fluvial depositional environment. Individual lithologic units of sand, silt, and clay 

are complexly interbedded and several normal faults have been mapped in the vicinity. 

The near-surface (unconfined) water table at the NLVF was encountered in the depth range of 3.8 to 14.9 m (12.6 to 

49 ft). Artesian water flow of 3.0 to 7.6 liters per minute (Lpm) (0.8 to 2 gallons per minute [gpm]) was encountered 

at two wells. 

Water chemistry reveals that this water is not related to the near surface “nuisance water” commonly supplied by 

excessive irrigation, but is from a deeper alluvial aquifer. The hydrogeologic setting suggests that the source of this 

rising groundwater is water flowing upward along local faults from deeper confined aquifer(s). This condition is 

considered a long-term adjustment that can be attributed to a combination of causes, including a seasonal water 

injection program conducted by the Southern Nevada Water Authority and shifting of regional pumping centers away 

from the vicinity of NLVF. The investigations concluded that it may be possible to control the rising groundwater 

below Building A-1 by dewatering the near-surface aquifer below the building. 

On May 18, 2004, two shallow hydrologic characterization wells, proximal to Building A-1, NLVF-12S and 

NLVF-13S (Figure A-2), were converted into dewatering wells to remediate the rising groundwater below 

Building A-1. The objective of this dewatering effort was (and continues to be) to lower the water level 1.2 m (4 ft) 

(or 1 ft below the lowest building footing) within two years. 

Based on recommendations using data collected from the NLVF Groundwater Control Program (BN, 2003; 2004; 

2005b), three additional shallow dewatering wells were drilled in the summer of 2005 and brought on-line in 2006. 

The new wells, NLVF-15, NLVF-16, and NLVF-17, are located along the north side of Building A-1 (Figure A-2). 

They were drilled in a similar fashion as the first two dewatering wells: with a 34.3-centimeter (cm) (13.5-inch [in.]) 

auger bit to a total depth of between 15.2 to 16.8 m (50 to 55 ft) and completed with 10.2-cm (4-in.) inside diameter 

polyvinyl chloride casing. All three wells have a single 9.1-m (30-ft) long slotted section and are completed in the 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 A-5

same shallow, clayey, sandy-silty aquifer as the two existing dewatering wells, NLVF-12S and NLVF-13S. Preliminary 

results from short-term step drawdown aquifer tests conducted in the three new wells suggested that discharge rates 

from 2.6 to 3.8 Lpm (0.7 to 1.0 gpm) might be sustained. 

Wellheads for the new wells were placed in subsurface vaults with traffic-rated covers to minimize impact in the high 

traffic areas around the building. Well NLVF-12S was shut down shortly after the new wells were established. Its 

pump rate was only 0.95 Lpm (0.25 gpm) and was contributing little to the overall dewatering effort. Water from the 

pumping wells is directed into a 39,747 L (10,500 gal) storage tank. Water in the storage tank can be transferred to a 

tanker truck for dust suppression and landscape irrigation (permit “Outfall 001”), or pumped directly into the CNLV 

storm water sewer system (permit “Outfall 002”). 

Since data gathered to date suggest that groundwater pumping may need to be continued indefinitely, permanent 

options for onsite use or disposal of pumped groundwater were investigated (BN, 2005c). Future project work plans 

include the installation of a permanent water distribution system. The long-range plan is to use the pumped water 

onsite for landscape irrigation, dust control, and possibly in existing cooling towers. 

A.1.2.2 Groundwater Monitoring 

Groundwater monitoring includes taking periodic water-level measurements at all accessible NLVF wells (including 

continuous measurements at the A-1 Basement Sump well, shown in Figure A-2), measuring the total volume of 

discharged groundwater, and conducting groundwater chemistry analyses quarterly and annually for the active 

dewatering wells. 

Under the existing NPDES permit, water samples are collected periodically from the 10,500 gal storage tank and 

analyzed for a number of parameters as specified in Table A-4. Compliance sampling for the NPDES permit began 

in January 2007, and the sampling results are reported to NDEP on a quarterly basis. Additionally, the NPDES 

permit requires a very comprehensive analysis to be conducted biannually. The standardized list of analytes, presented 

as Appendix A of the NPDES permit, includes 46 base neutral extractables (e.g., dichlorobenzene, naphalene, 

diethylphthalate), 12 acid extractables (e.g., chlorophenol), 28 volatile organics (e.g., benzene, trichloro-ethene, carbon 

tetrachloride, toluene), 25 pesticides (e.g., Aldrin, Chlordane, Endosulfan), dioxin, 13 metals (e.g., arsenic, lead, 

mercury), cyanide, and asbestos. All of the parameters analyzed in the 2007 water samples from the 10,500 gal storage 

tank were either non-detectable or below permit limits (Table A-4). 

The pumping rate at the dewatering wells varies from 2.6 Lpm (0.70 gpm) at NLVF-17 to 1.1 Lpm (0.3 gpm) at 

NLVF-16. The average combined discharge from all four dewatering wells is about 286,735 L (71,000 gal) per month. 

The total quantity of water produced/discharged was reported quarterly to the NDEP, Bureau of Water Pollution 

Control in Carson City, Nevada. 

Groundwater data are assessed quarterly or as new data/analyses become available. This information is used to help 

characterize the groundwater situation, validate the conceptual hydrologic model, and evaluate the dewatering 

operation. The presence or absence of particular constituents, or overall chemical signature, could suggest or confirm 

source(s) of the rising near-surface groundwater. In 2007, all sampled well waters met the Safe Drinking Water 

Standards (Table A-4). These analyses were as expected and compare well with previous sampling events. Water 

monitoring data are maintained in the NSTec Environmental Integrated Data Management System database. 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

A-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Figure A-2. Location of existing and new dewatering wells around Building A-1 
Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 A-7

Table A-4. NPDES Permit NV0023507 monitoring requirements and 2007 sampling results

Moni

Parameter 

Permit Discharge 

Limits/ 

Requirements 

Sample 

Results 1st

Quarter 

Sample 

Results 2nd

Quarter 

Sample 

Results 3rd

Quarter 

Sample 

Results 4th

Quarter 

Sampl

Frequen

Daily Maximum Flow (MGD) (a) 0.005184 0.001920 0.002414 0.002455 0.002550 ContinuoTotal Petroleum Hydrocarbons (mg/L) 1.0 NS (b) NS NS ND (c) Annually (4Total Suspended Solids (mg/L) 135 ND ND ND ND QuarterTotal Dissolved Solids (mg/L) 1900 509 677 859 809 QuarterTotal Inorganic Nitrogen as N (mg/L) 20.0 0.89 0.01671 0.57 ND QuarterpH (S.U.) 6.5–9.0 7.62 7.85 7.86 7.5 QuarterTritium (pCi/L) 20,000 NS NS NS ND Annually (4Metals (mg/L): Biannua Ag 0.05 NS NS NS ND  As MR (c) NS NS NS 0.0094  Be MR NS NS NS ND  Cd 0.01 NS NS NS 0.00063  Cr 0.05 NS NS NS 0.0013  Cu 1.0 NS NS NS 0.048  Hg 0.002 NS NS NS ND  Ni MR NS NS NS ND  Pb 0.05 NS NS NS 0.00024  Sb MR NS NS NS ND  Se MR NS NS NS 0.0029  Th MR NS NS NS ND  Zn 5.0 NS NS NS 0.0072 Permit Appendix A Analytes (mg/L): Biannua Volatile Organics MR NS NS NS ND  Pesticides/PCBs MR NS NS NS ND  Acid Extractables MR NS NS NS ND  Base Neutral Extractables MR NS NS NS ND  Dioxins MR NS NS NS ND  Asbestos MR NS NS NS < 0.2 (a) MGD = million gallons per day (b) NS = not required to be sampled the quarter (c) ND = not detected (d) MR = monitor and report
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

A-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

A.1.2.3 Building A-1 Sump Well 

During 2001, a sump well was installed in the basement of Building A-1 and used in remediation operations. The 

discharge water was disposed of at the NTS. The sump well was turned off after the remedial operations were 

completed. However, beginning in early 2003, the sump well has been used intermittently to help control the 

encroaching water below Building A-1. Because this water contains some residual tritium (1,900 picocuries per liter 

[pCi/L], or about one tenth of the Safe Drinking Water Act limits of 20,000 pCi/L), it is kept separate with its own 

disposal process. The discharge is transported to the NTS during the winter, but during the warm months, the 

discharge is evaporated with an exterior array of evaporative units on the north side of Building A-1. In 2007, about 

37,850 to 71,915 L (10,000 to 19,000 gal) were transported monthly to the NTS for disposal during the winter and 

about 30,280 to 94,625 L (8,000 to 25,000 gal) were evaporated at the NLVF during the summer months. 

A.1.3 Compliance with Air Quality Permits 

Sources of air pollutants at the NLVF are regulated by the Facility 657 Authority to Construct/Operating Permit for 

the emission of criteria pollutants (see Glossary, Appendix B) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs). They include 

sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxide (NOX), carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM), volatile organic 

compounds (VOCs), and any of 189 defined HAPs. The regulated sources of emissions at the NLVF include an 

aluminum sander, an abrasive blaster, emergency generators, and a spray paint booth. There are no monitoring 

requirements associated with the permit. An application to modify the Facility 657 permit by adding three new diesel 

generators was submitted to Clark County at the end of 2006. The modified permit (“Modification 3”) was issued in 

April 2007. The Clark County Department of Air Quality and Environmental Management (DAQEM) requires 

submittal of an annual emissions inventory. The emissions inventory for 2007 was submitted to DAQEM on 

March 4, 2007. The estimated quantities of criteria air pollutants and HAPs emitted in 2007 are shown in Table A-5. 

Table A-5. Tons of criteria air pollutant and HAPs emissions estimated for NLVF in 2007 

Criteria Pollutant (Tons/yr)(a) 

CO NOx PM10(b) SO2 VOC 

HAPs 

(Tons/yr) 

0.032 0.121 0.014 0.008 0.010 0.0004 

Total Emissions = 0.185 

(a) 1 ton equals 0.91 metric tons 

(b) Particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter 

A.1.4 Compliance with Hazardous Materials Regulations 

In 2007, the chemical inventory at NLVF was updated and submitted to the State in the Nevada Combined Agency 

(NCA) Report on February 27, 2007, as per the requirements of the Hazardous Materials Permit 2287-5144 

(see Section 2.5, Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act for description of content, purpose, and 

federal regulatory driver behind the NCA Report). No accidental or unplanned release of an extremely hazardous 

substance (EHS) occurred at NLVF in 2007. Also, no annual usage quantities of toxic chemicals kept at NLVF 

exceeded specified thresholds (see Section 2.5 concerning Toxic Chemical Release Inventory, Form R). 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 A-9

A.1.5 Compliance with Radiation Protection Regulations 

A.1.5.1 National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) 

The Clean Air Act, Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 61, Subpart H (NESHAP) requires managers of DOE 

facilities to perform an assessment of all radionuclide air emissions caused by their operations and to estimate the 

radiation dose that a member of the public could receive from them. NESHAP establishes a dose limit for the 

general public to be no greater than 10 millirems per year (mrem/yr) from all radioactive air emissions. Building A-1’s 

basement was contaminated with tritium in 1995 when a container of tritium foils was opened, emitting about 1 curie 

of tritium (DOE, 1996b). Complete cleanup of the tritium was unsuccessful due to the tritium being absorbed into 

the building materials. This has resulted in a continuous but decreasing release of tritium into the basement air space, 

which is ventilated to the outdoors. Since 1995, a dose assessment has been performed every year for this 

building. Two air samples were collected from the basement in 2007 (from April 24 to May 2 and from October 9 to 

October 15). Similar to previous years, the calculated radiation dose to the nearest member of the general public, 

located 100 m northwest of the building vent pipe, was very low at 0.00006 mrem/yr. 

A.1.5.2 DOE Order 5400.5 

DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment, specifies that the radiological dose to a member 

of the public from radiation from all pathways must not exceed the 100 mrem/yr as a result of DOE activities. This 

dose limit does not include the dose contribution from natural background radiation. The facilities at NLVF which 

use radioactive sources or where radiation-producing operations are conducted which have the potential to expose the 

general population or non-project personnel to direct radiation are the Atlas A-1 Source Range Laboratory and the 

Building C-3 High Intensity Source Building. NSTec’s Environmental Technical Services (ETS) conducts direct 

radiation monitoring at these locations. ETS utilizes thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) to monitor external 

gamma radiation exposure near the boundaries of these NLVF facilities. The methods of TLD use and data analyses 

are described in Section 5.0 of this report. 

In 2007, radiation exposure was measured at two locations along the perimeter fence and at one control location. 

Annual exposure rates estimated from measurements at those NLVF locations are summarized in Table A-6. These 

exposures include contributions from background radiation and were all less than 100 mrem/yr. 

 Table A-6. Results of 2007 direct radiation exposure monitoring at NLVF 

 Gamma Exposure (milliroentgens per year [mR/yr]) 

Location 

Number of 

Samples Mean Median Minimum Maximum 

Control 3 74 73 68 81 

North Fence of Building A-1 4 67 66 61 75 

North Fence of Building C-3 4 68 67 63 75 

A.2 Cheyenne Las Vegas Facility 

The CLVF is located at the Flynn Gallagher Corporate Center on West Cheyenne Avenue in northwest Las Vegas. It 

consists of five buildings which house engineering, procurement, and administrative functions. Access to the facility 

requires proper identification, badging, and a security access card. Facility and infrastructure maintenance is provided 

by the facility owner. No environmental monitoring or compliance activities are conducted at or for this facility. 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

A-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

A.3 Remote Sensing Laboratory-Nellis 

RSL-Nellis is approximately 13.7 kilometers (km) (8.5 miles [mi]) northeast of the Las Vegas city center, and 

approximately 11.3 km (7 mi) northeast of NLVF. It occupies six facilities on approximately 14 secured hectares 

(35 acres) at the Nellis Air Force Base. The six NNSA/NSO facilities were constructed on property owned by the 

U.S. Air Force (USAF). There is a Memorandum of Agreement between the USAF and the NNSA/NSO whereby 

the land belongs to the USAF, but is under lease to the NNSA/NSO for 25 years (as of 1989) with an option for a 

25-year extension. The facilities are owned by NNSA/NSO. RSL-Nellis provides emergency response resources for 

weapons-of-mass-destruction incidents. The laboratory also designs and field tests counterterrorism/intelligence 

technologies and has the capability to assess environmental and facility conditions using complex radiation 

measurements and multi-spectral imaging technologies. 

Environmental compliance and monitoring activities at RSL-Nellis in 2007 included maintenance of a wastewater 

contribution permit, an air quality permit, a hazardous materials permit, and a waste management permit (Table A-7). 

Sealed radiation sources are used for calibration at RSL-Nellis, but the public has no access to any area which may 

have elevated gamma radiation emitted by the sources. Therefore, no environmental TLD monitoring is conducted. 

However, dosimetry monitoring to ensure protection of personnel who work within the facility is performed. 

Table A-7. Environmental permits for RSL-Nellis in 2007 

A.3.1 Compliance with Wastewater Contribution Permit CCWRD-080 

Discharges of wastewater from RSL-Nellis are required to meet permit limits set by the Clark County Water 

Reclamation District (CCWRD). These limits support the permit limits for the POTW operated by Clark County. 

The wastewater permit for this facility requires quarterly monitoring and reporting. Table A-8 presents the mean 

concentration of outfall measurements collected once per quarter in 2007. All contaminants in the outfall samples 

were below permit limits. Quarterly reports were submitted on March 26, May 14, September 18, and December 13, 

2007, to the CCWRD. The CCWRD also conducted two inspections of RSL-Nellis in 2007. The inspections resulted 

in no findings or corrective actions for the facility. 

Permit Number Description Expiration Date Reporting 

Wastewater Discharge 

CCWRD-080 Industrial Wastewater Discharge Permit June 30, 2007 March, May, 

September, December 

Air Quality 

Facility 348, Mod. 2 

Clark County Authority to 

Construct/Operating Permit for a 

Testing Laboratory 

None March 

Hazardous Materials 

2287-5145 RSL-Nellis Hazardous Materials Permit February 28, 2007 Annually 

Waste Management 

U1576-33N-01 RSL-Nellis Waste Management PermitUnderground Storage Tank December 31, 2007 None 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 A-11

Table A-8. Mean concentration of outfall measurements at RSL-Nellis in 2007 

Contaminant/Measure Permit Limit Outfall 

 mg/L 

Ammonia NL(a) 13.2 

Cadmium 0.35 0.00036 

Chromium (Total) 1.7 0.0021 

Copper 3.36 0.210 

Cyanide (Total) 1 0.009 

Lead 0.99 0.0028 

Nickel 10.08 0.0048 

Phosphorus NL a) 3.70 

Silver 6.3 0.0046 

TDS NL a) 1,228 

TSS NL a) 180.7 

Zinc 23.06 0.552 

 Standard Units 

pH 5.0–11.0 7.85 

 Degrees Fahrenheit 

Temperature 140 80.6 

(a) No limit listed on permit 

A.3.2 Compliance with Air Quality Permits 

Sources of air pollutants at RSL-Nellis are regulated by the Facility 348 Authority to Construct/Operating Permit for 

the emission of criteria pollutants and HAPs (see Glossary, Appendix B). The regulated sources include boilers, water 

heaters, emergency generators, a spray paint booth, and a vapor degreaser. There are no monitoring requirements 

associated with the permit. In mid 2006, a permit modification application was submitted to the DAQEM to remove 

a boiler and large water heater, replacing the latter with two smaller water heaters, and increasing the testing and 

maintenance hours for two permitted emergency generators. The modified permit was issued in January 2007. The 

DAQEM requires submittal of the annual emissions inventory. The estimated quantities of criteria air pollutants and 

HAPs emitted at RSL-Nellis in 2007 are presented in Table A-9. Natural gas consumption is also reported as per the 

requirements of the consolidated air permit issued for RSL-Nellis. The emissions inventory for 2007 was submitted 

to DAQEM on March 4, 2007. 

 Table A-9. Summary of air emissions for RSL-Nellis in 2007 

Criteria Pollutant (Tons/yr)(a) 

CO NOx PM10(b) SO2 VOC 

HAPs 

(Tons/yr) 

Natural Gas 

Consumption (ft3) (c)

0.238 0.434 0.028 0.011 0.036 0.004 4,493,700 

Total Emissions of Pollutants = 0.751 

(a) 1 ton equals 0.91 metric tons 

(b) Particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter 

(c) Cubic feet 
Appendix A - Offsite Facilities

A-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

A.3.3 Compliance with Hazardous Materials Regulations 

In 2007, the chemical inventory at RSL-Nellis was updated and submitted to the state in the NCA Report on February 

27, 2007, as per the requirements of the Hazardous Materials Permit 2287-5145 (see Section 2.5 of this report for 

description of content, purpose, and federal regulatory driver behind the NCA Report). No accidental or unplanned 

release of an EHS occurred at RSL-Nellis in 2007. Also, no annual usage quantities of toxic chemicals kept at 

RSL-Nellis exceeded specified thresholds (see Section 2.5 concerning Toxic Chemical Release Inventory, Form R). 

A.3.4 Compliance with Waste Management Regulations 

The underground storage tank program at RSL-Nellis consists of two active permitted tanks (gasoline/diesel 

fuel), one inactive tank (empty used oil tank), one deferred tank (as per 40 CFR 280.10(d)) for emergency power 

generation, and three unregulated tanks. The permitted and deferred tanks are located at Building 2211. The fuel 

tanks were retrofitted with spill/overflow protection in 1998. They are inspected annually by the Southern Nevada 

Health District. No deficiencies were noted during the 2007 health district’s inspection at RSL-Nellis.

 
Appendix B – Glossary of Terms 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 B-1

Appendix B: Glossary of Terms 

A Absorbed dose: the amount of energy imparted to matter by ionizing radiation per unit mass of irradiated 

material, in which the absorbed dose is expressed in units of rad or gray (l rad equals 0.01 gray). 

Accuracy: the closeness of the result of a measurement to the true value of the quantity measured. 

Action level: defined by regulatory agencies, the level of pollutants which, if exceeded, requires regulatory action. 

Alluvium: a sediment deposited by flowing water. 

Alpha particle: a positively charged particle emitted from the nucleus of an atom, having mass and charge equal 

to those of a helium nucleus (two protons and two neutrons), usually emitted by transuranic elements. 

Analyte: the specific component measured in a chemical analysis. 

Anion: a negatively charged ion, such as Cl–. 

Aquifer: a saturated layer of rock or soil below the ground surface that can supply usable quantities of 

groundwater to wells and springs, and be a source of water for domestic, agricultural, and industrial uses. 

Atom: the smallest particle of an element capable of entering into a chemical reaction. 

B Background: as used in this report, background is the term for the amounts of chemical constituents or 

radioactivity in the environment which are not caused by Nevada Test Site operations. 

Becquerel (Bq): the International System of Units unit of activity of a radionuclide, equal to the activity of a 

radionuclide having one spontaneous nuclear transition per second. 

Beta particle: a negatively charged particle emitted from the nucleus of an atom, having charge, mass, and other 

properties of an electron, emitted from fission products such as 137Cs. 

Biological oxygen demand (BOD): a measure of the amount of dissolved oxygen that microorganisms need to 

break down organic matter in water; used as an indicator of water quality. 

C CAP88-PC: a computer code required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for modeling air emissions 

of radionuclides. 

Chain of custody: a method for documenting the history and possession of a sample from the time of its 

collection through its analysis and data reporting to its final disposition. 

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR): a codification of all regulations promulgated by federal government 

agencies. 

Collective population dose: the sum of the total effective dose equivalents of all individuals within a defined 

population. The unit of collective population dose is person-rem or person-sievert. Collective population dose 

may also be referred to as “collective effective dose equivalent” or simply “population dose.” 

Committed dose equivalent: the dose equivalent to a tissue or organ over a 50-year period after an intake of a 

radionuclide into the body. Committed dose equivalent is expressed in units of rem or sievert. 

Committed effective dose equivalent (CEDE): the sum of the committed dose equivalents to various tissues 

in the body, each multiplied by an appropriate weighting factor representing the relative vulnerability of different 

parts of the body to radiation. Committed effective dose equivalent is expressed in units of rem or sievert. 
Appendix B – Glossary of Terms

B-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Compliance Level (CL): stands for the Clean Air Act National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air 

Pollutants Concentration Level for Environmental Compliance. The CL value represents the annual average 

concentration which would result in a dose of 10 millirem per year, which is the federal dose limit to the public 

from all radioactive air emissions. 

Cosmic radiation: radiation with very high energies originating outside the earth’s atmosphere; it is one source 

contributing to natural background radiation. 

Criteria pollutants: those air pollutants designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as potentially 

harmful and for which National Ambient Air Quality Standards under the Clean Air Act have been established to 

protect the public health and welfare. These pollutants include sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOX), 

carbon monoxide (CO), ozone, lead, and particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter (PM10). 

The State of Nevada, through an air quality permit, establishes emission limits on the Nevada Test Site for SO2, 

NOX, CO, PM10, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Ozone is not regulated by the permit as an emission 

as it is formed in part from NOX and VOCs. Lead is considered a hazardous air pollutant (HAP) as well as a 

criteria pollutant, and lead emissions on the Nevada Test Site are reported as part of the total HAP emissions. 

Lead emissions above a specified threshold are also reported under Section 313 of the Emergency Planning and 

Community Right-to-Know Act. 

Curie (Ci): a unit of measurement of radioactivity, defined as the amount of radioactive material in which the 

decay rate is 3.7 × 1010 disintegrations per second or 2.22 × 1012 disintegrations per minute; one Ci is 

approximately equal to the decay rate of one gram of pure radium. 

D Daughter nuclide: a nuclide formed by the radioactive decay of another nuclide, which is called the parent. 

Decision level: the counts of radioactivity (or concentration level of a radionuclide) in a sample that must be 

exceeded before there is a specified level of confidence (typically 95 or 99 percent) that the sample contains 

radioactive material above the background; also known as the Critical Level (LC).

Depleted uranium: uranium having a lower proportion of the isotope 235U than is found in naturally occurring 

uranium. The masses of the three uranium isotopes with atomic weights 238, 235, and 234 occur in depleted 

uranium in the weight-percentages 99.8, 0.2, and 5 × 10–4, respectively; see Table 3-7 and related discussion. 

Derived Concentration Guide (DCG): concentrations of radionuclides in water and air that could be 

continuously consumed or inhaled for one year and not exceed the U.S. Department of Energy primary radiation 

dose limit to the public of 100 millirem per year effective dose equivalent. 

Dose: the energy imparted to matter by ionizing radiation; the unit of absorbed dose is the rad, equal to 

0.01 joules per kilogram for irradiated material in any medium. 

Dose equivalent: the product of absorbed dose in rad (or gray) in tissue and a quality factor representing the 

relative damage caused to living tissue by different kinds of radiation, and perhaps other modifying factors 

representing the distribution of radiation, etc., expressed in units of rem or sievert. 

Dosimeter: a portable detection device for measuring the total accumulated exposure to ionizing radiation. 

Dosimetry: the theory and application of the principles and techniques of measuring and recording radiation 

doses. 

E Effective dose equivalent (EDE): an estimate of the total risk of potential effects from radiation exposure; it is 

the summation of the products of the dose equivalent and weighting factor for each tissue. The weighting factor 

is the decimal fraction of the risk arising from irradiation of a selected tissue to the total risk when the whole body 

is irradiated uniformly to the same dose equivalent. These factors permit dose equivalents from non-uniform 

exposure of the body to be expressed in terms of an EDE that is numerically equal to the dose from a uniform 

exposure of the whole body that entails the same risk as the internal exposure. The EDE includes the committed 
Appendix B – Glossary of Terms 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 B-3

effective dose equivalent from internal deposition of radionuclides and the EDE caused by penetrating radiation 

from sources external to the body, and is expressed in units of rem or sievert. 

Effluent: used in this report to refer to a liquid discharged to the environment. 

Emission: used in this report to refer to a vapor, gas, airborne particulate, or radiation discharged to the 

environment via the air. 

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS): a detailed report, required by the National Environmental Policy 

Act, on the environmental impacts from a federally approved or funded project. An EIS must be prepared by a 

federal agency when a “major” federal action that will have “significant” environmental impacts is planned. 

F Federal facility: a facility that is owned or operated by the federal government, subject to the same requirements 

as other responsible parties when placed on the Superfund National Priorities List. 

Federal Register: a document published daily by the federal government containing notification of government 

agency actions, including notification of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy 

decisions concerning permit applications and rule-making. 

Fiscal year: the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Agency Nevada Site Office’s fiscal year is 

from October 1 through September 30. 

G Gamma ray: high-energy, short-wavelength, electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus of an atom, 

frequently accompanying the emission of alpha or beta particles. 

Gray (Gy): the International System of Units unit of measure for absorbed dose; the quantity of energy imparted 

by ionizing radiation to a unit mass of matter, such as tissue. One gray equals 100 rads, or 1 joule per kilogram. 

Gross alpha: the measure of radioactivity caused by all radionuclides present in a sample which emit alpha 

particles. Gross alpha measurements reflect alpha activity from all sources, including those that occur naturally. 

Gross measurements are used as a method to screen samples for relative levels of radioactivity. 

Gross beta: the measure of radioactivity caused by all radionuclides present in a sample which emit beta 

particles. Gross beta measurements reflect beta activity from all sources, including those that occur naturally. 

Gross measurements are used as a method to screen samples for relative levels of radioactivity. 

Groundwater: all subsurface water. 

H Half-life: the time required for one-half the radioactive atoms in a given amount of material to decay; for 

example, after one half-life, half of the atoms will have decayed; after two half-lives, three-fourths; after three 

half-lives, seven-eighths; and so on, exponentially. 

Hazardous waste: hazardous wastes exhibit any of the following characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, 

reactivity, or Extraction Procedure toxicity (yielding excessive levels of toxic constituents in a leaching test), but 

other wastes that do not necessarily exhibit these characteristics have been determined to be hazardous by the 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Although the legal definition of hazardous waste is complex, 

according to EPA, the term generally refers to any waste that, if managed improperly, could pose a threat to 

human health and the environment. 

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter: a throwaway, extended-media, dry-type filter used to capture 

particulates in an air stream; HEPA collection efficiencies are at least 99.97 percent for 0.3-micrometer diameter 

particles. 

Hydrology: the science dealing with the properties, distribution, and circulation of natural water systems. 
Appendix B – Glossary of Terms

B-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

I Inorganic compounds: compounds that either do not contain carbon or do not contain hydrogen along with 

carbon, including metals, salts, various carbon oxides (e.g., carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide), and cyanide. 

Instrument detection limit (IDL): the lowest concentration that can be detected by an instrument without 

correction for the effects of sample matrix or method-specific parameters such as sample preparation. IDLs are 

explicitly determined and generally defined as three times the standard deviation of the mean noise level. This 

represents 99 percent confidence that the signal is not random noise.

Interim status: a legal classification allowing hazardous waste incinerators or other hazardous waste 

management facilities to operate while EPA considers their permit applications, provided that they were under 

construction or in operation by November 19, 1980, and can meet other interim status requirements. 

International System of Units (SI): an international system of physical units which include meter (length), 

kilogram (mass), kelvin (temperature), becquerel (radioactivity), gray (radioactive dose), and sievert (dose 

equivalent). The abbreviation, SI, comes from the French term Système International d’Unités. 

Isotopes: forms of an element having the same number of protons in their nuclei, but differing numbers of 

neutrons. 

L LC: the counts of radioactivity (or concentration level of a radionuclide) in a sample that must be exceeded 

before there is a specified level of confidence (typically 95 or 99 percent) that the sample contains radioactive 

material above the background; called the Critical Level (LC) or the decision level. 

Less than detection limits: a phrase indicating that a chemical constituent or radionuclide was either not 

present in a sample, or is present in such a small concentration that it cannot be measured as significantly 

different from zero by a laboratory’s analytical procedure and, therefore, is not identified at the lowest level of 

sensitivity. 

Low-level radioactive waste (LLW): waste defined by U.S. Department of Energy Order 5820.2A, which 

contains transuranic nuclide concentrations less than 100 nanocuries per gram. 

Lower limit of detection: the smallest concentration or amount of analyte that can be detected in a sample at a 

95-percent confidence level. 

Lysimeter: an instrument for measuring the water percolating through soils and determining the dissolved 

materials. 

M Maximally exposed individual (MEI): a hypothetical member of the public at a fixed location who, over an 

entire year, receives the maximum effective dose equivalent (summed over all pathways) from a given source of 

radionuclide releases to air. Generally, the MEI is different for each source at a site. 

Maximum contaminant level (MCL): the highest level of a contaminant in drinking water that is allowed by 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulation. 

Minimum detectable concentration (MDC): also known as the lower limit of detection, the smallest amount 

of radioactive material in a sample that can be quantitatively distinguished from background radiation in the 

sample with 95 percent confidence. 

Metric units: metric units, U.S. customary units, and their respective equivalents are shown in Table 1-6. 

Except for temperature for which specific equations apply, U.S. customary units can be determined from metric 

units by multiplying the metric units by the U.S. customary equivalent. Similarly, metric units can be determined 

from U.S. customary equivalent units by multiplying the U.S. customary units by the metric equivalent. 

Mixed waste (MW): waste that has the properties of both hazardous and radioactive waste. 

N National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP): standards found in the Clean Air 

Act that set limits for hazardous air pollutants. 
Appendix B – Glossary of Terms 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 B-5

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES): a federal regulation under the Clean Water 

Act that requires permits for discharges into surface waterways. 

Nuclide: any species of atom that exists for a measurable length of time. A nuclide can be distinguished by its 

atomic mass, atomic number, and energy state. 

O Offsite: for effluent releases or in the nuclear testing area, any place outside the Nevada Test Site and adjacent 

Nevada Test and Training Range. 

Onsite: for effluent releases or in the nuclear testing area, any place inside the Nevada Test Site and adjacent 

Nevada Test and Training Range. 

P Part B Permit: the second, narrative section submitted by generators in the Resource Conservation and 

Recovery Act permitting process that covers in detail the procedures followed at a facility to protect human health 

and the environment. 

Parts per million (ppm): a unit of measure for the concentration of a substance in its surrounding medium; for 

example, one million grams of water containing one gram of salt has a salt concentration of 1 ppm. 

Perched aquifer: an aquifer that is separated from another water-bearing stratum by an impermeable layer. 

Performance standards (incinerators): specific regulatory requirements established by the U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency limiting the concentrations of designated organic compounds, particulate matter, and 

hydrogen chloride in incinerator emissions. 

pH: a measure of hydrogen ion concentration in an aqueous solution. Acidic solutions have a pH from 0 to 7; 

basic solutions have a pH greater than 7; and neutral solutions have a pH of 7. 

PM10: a fine particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter equal to or less than 10 microns. 

Point source: any confined and discrete conveyance (e.g., pipe, ditch, well, or stack). 

Q Quality assurance (QA): a system of activities whose purpose is to provide the assurance that standards of 

quality are attained with a stated level of confidence. 

Quality control (QC): procedures used to verify that prescribed standards of performance are attained. 

Quality factor: the factor by which the absorbed dose (rad) is multiplied to obtain a quantity that expresses (on a 

common scale for all ionizing radiation) the biological damage to exposed persons, usually used because some 

types of radiation, such as alpha particles, are biologically more damaging than others. Quality factors for alpha, 

beta, and gamma radiation are in the ratio 20:1:1. 

R Rad: the unit of absorbed dose and the quantity of energy imparted by ionizing radiation to a unit mass of matter 

such as tissue; equal to 0.01 joule per kilogram, or 0.01 gray. 

Radioactive decay: the spontaneous transformation of one radionuclide into a different nuclide (which may or 

may not be radioactive), or de-excitation to a lower energy state of the nucleus by emission of nuclear radiation, 

primarily alpha or beta particles, or gamma rays (photons). 

Radioactivity: the spontaneous emission of nuclear radiation, generally alpha or beta particles, or gamma rays, 

from the nucleus of an unstable isotope. 

Radionuclide: an unstable nuclide. See nuclide and radioactivity. 

Rem: a unit of radiation dose equivalent and effective dose equivalent describing the effectiveness of a type of 

radiation to produce biological effects; coined from the phrase “roentgen equivalent man,” and the product of the 
Appendix B – Glossary of Terms

B-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

absorbed dose (rad), a quality factor (Q), a distribution factor, and other necessary modifying factors. One rem 

equals 0.01 sievert. 

Risk assessment: the use of established methods to measure the risks posed by an activity or exposure by 

evaluating the relationship between exposure to radioactive substances and the subsequent occurrence of health 

effects and the likelihood for that exposure to occur. 

Roentgen (R): a unit of measurement used to express radiation exposure in terms of the amount of ionization 

produced in a volume of air. 

S Sanitary waste: most simply, waste generated by routine operations that is not regulated as hazardous or 

radioactive by state or federal agencies. 

Saturated zone: a subsurface zone below which all rock pore-space is filled with water; also called the phreatic 

zone. 

Sensitivity: the capability of methodology or instrumentation to discriminate between samples having differing 

concentrations or containing varying amounts of analyte. 

Sievert (Sv): the International System of Units unit of radiation dose equivalent and effective dose equivalent, 

that is the product of the absorbed dose (gray), quality factor (Q), distribution factor, and other necessary 

modifying factors; 1 Sv equals 100 rem. 

Source term: the amount of a specific pollutant emitted or discharged to a particular medium, such as the air or 

water, from a particular source.

Specific conductance: the measure of the ability of a material to conduct electricity; also called conductivity. 

Subcritical experiment: an experiment using high explosives and nuclear weapon materials (including special 

nuclear materials like plutonium) to gain data used to maintain the nuclear stockpile without conducting nuclear 

explosions banned by the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. 

T Thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD): a device used to measure external beta or gamma radiation levels, and 

which contains a material that, after exposure to beta or gamma radiation, emits light when processed and heated. 

Total dissolved solids (TDS): the portion of solid material in a waste stream that is dissolved and passed 

through a filter. 

Total organic carbon (TOC): the sum of the organic material present in a sample. 

Total organic halides (TOX): the sum of the organic halides present in a sample. 

Total suspended solids (TSS): the total mass of particulate matter per unit volume suspended in water and 

wastewater discharges that is large enough to be collected by a 0.45 micron filter. 

Transpiration: a process by which water is transferred from the soil to the air by plants that take the water up 

through their roots and release it through their leaves and other aboveground tissue. 

Tritium: a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, containing one proton and two neutrons in its nucleus, which decays 

at a half-life of 12.3 years by emitting a low-energy beta particle. 

Transuranic (TRU) waste: material contaminated with alpha-emitting transuranium nuclides which have an 

atomic number greater than 92 (e.g., 239Pu), half-lives longer than 20 years, and are present in concentrations 

greater than 100 nanocuries per gram of waste. 
Appendix B – Glossary of Terms 

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 B-7

U Uncertainty: the parameter associated with a sample measurement that characterizes the range of the 

measurement that could reasonably be attributed to the sample. Used in this report, the uncertainty value is 

established at ± 2 standard deviations.

Unsaturated zone: that portion of the subsurface in which the pores are only partially filled with water and the 

direction of water flow is vertical; is also referred to as the vadose zone. 

V Vadose zone: the partially saturated or unsaturated region above the water table that does not yield water to 

wells. 

Volatile organic compound (VOC): liquid or solid organic compounds that have a high vapor pressure at 

normal pressures and temperatures and thus tend to spontaneously pass into the vapor state. 

W Waste accumulation area (WAA): an officially designated area that meets current environmental standards and 

guidelines for temporary (less than 90 days) storage of hazardous waste before offsite disposal. 

Wastewater treatment system: a collection of treatment processes and facilities designed and built to reduce 

the amount of suspended solids, bacteria, oxygen-demanding materials, and chemical constituents in wastewater. 

Water table: the water-level surface below the ground at which the unsaturated zone ends and the saturated 

zone begins, and the level to which a well that is screened in the unconfined aquifer would fill with water. 

Weighting factor: a tissue-specific value used to calculate dose equivalents which represents the fraction of the 

total health risk resulting from uniform, whole-body irradiation that could be contributed to that particular tissue. 

The weighting factors used in this report are recommended by the International Commission on Radiological 

Protection. 

Wind rose: a diagram that shows the frequency and intensity of wind from different directions at a specific 

location.
Appendix B – Glossary of Terms

B-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

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Appendix C - Acronyms and Abbreviations

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 C-1 

C.0 Appendix C: Acronyms and Abbreviations 

ac acre(s) 

AEA Atomic Energy Act 

AEC Atomic Energy Commission 

ALARA as low as reasonably achievable 

241Am americium-241 

ARL/SORD Air Resources Laboratory, Special Operations and Research Division 

ARPA Archeological Resources Protection Act 

ASER Annual Site Environmental Report 

ASN Air Surveillance Network 

ATM Atomic Testing Museum 

BCG Biota Concentration Guide 

Be beryllium 

BEEF Big Explosives Experimental Facility 

BFF Bureau of Federal Facilities 

bgs below ground surface 

BHPS Nevada State Health Division, Bureau of Health Protection Services 

BLM Bureau of Land Management 

BN Bechtel Nevada 

BOD biological oxygen demand 

BREN Bare Reactor Experiment - Nevada 

Bq Becquerel 

Bq/m3 Becquerels per cubic meter 

°C degree(s) Celsius 

CA Composite Analysis 

CAA Clean Air Act 

CAB Community Advisory Board 

CADD Corrective Action Decision Document 

CAI corrective action investigation 

CAIP Corrective Action Investigation Plan 

CAP Corrective Action Plan 

CAPP Chemical Accident Prevention Program 

CAP88-PC Clean Air Package 1988 

CAS Corrective Action Site 

CAU Corrective Action Unit 

CCWRD Clark County Water Reclamation District 

CEDE committed effective dose equivalent 

CEM Community Environmental Monitor 
Appendix C - Acronyms and Abbreviations

C-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

CEMP Community Environmental Monitoring Program 

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act 

CFR Code of Federal Regulations 

CGTO Consolidated Group of Tribes and Organizations 

Ci curie(s) 

Ci/yr curie(s) per year 

CL compliance level (used in text for the Clean Air Act National Emission Standards for Hazardous 

Pollutants Concentration Level for Environmental Compliance) 

CLVF Cheyenne Las Vegas Facility 

cm centimeter(s) 

CNLV City of North Las Vegas 

CO carbon monoxide 

CP Control Point 

cpm counts per minute 

CR Closure Report 

CRM Cultural Resources Management 

Cs cesium 

CV coefficient of variation 

CWA Clean Water Act 

CX categorical exclusion 

CY calendar year 

d day(s) 

DAF Device Assembly Facility 

DAQEM Department of Air Quality and Environmental Management (Clark County) 

DCG Derived Concentration Guide 

DL detection limit 

DNWR Desert National Wildlife Refuge 

DoD U.S. Department of Defense 

DOE U.S. Department of Energy 

DOECAP U.S. Department of Energy Consolidated Audit Program 

DOE/HQ U.S. Department of Energy Headquarters 

DOT U.S. Department of Transportation 

dpm/100 cm2 disintegrations per minute per 100 square centimeters 

DQA Data Quality Assessment 

DQO Data Quality Objectives 

DRI Desert Research Institute 

DSC discrete-state compartment 

DSCM-SCE diescrete-state compartment model-shuffled complex evolution 

DTRA Defense Threat Reduction Agency 

DVRFM Death Valley Regional Flow Model 
Appendix C - Acronyms and Abbreviations

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 C-3 

EA Environmental Assessment 

EDE effective dose equivalent 

EHS extremely hazardous substance 

EIS Environmental Impact Statement 

EMAC Ecological Monitoring and Compliance 

EMS Environmental Management System 

EO Executive Order 

EODU Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit 

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

EPCRA Emergency Reporting and Community Right-to-Know Act 

EPEAT Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool 

ER Environmental Restoration 

ERA Environmental Research Associates 

ERP Environmental Restoration Project 

ES Environmental Services 

ES&H Environment, Safety, and Health 

ESA Endangered Species Act 

ESH&Q Environment, Safety, Health, and Quality 

ETS Environmental Technical Services 

EWG Environmental Working Group 

°F degree(s) Fahrenheit 

FD field duplicate 

FFACO Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order 

FFCA Federal Facility Compliance Act 

FIFRA Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act 

ft foot or feet 

ft2 square feet 

ft3 cubic feet 

FWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

FY fiscal year 

g gram(s) 

gal gallon(s) 

gal/d gallon(s) per day 

GCD Greater Confinement Disposal 

GIS Geographic Information System 

gpm gallon(s) per minute 

Gy gray(s) 

Gy/d gray(s) per day 

ha hectare(s) 

3H tritium 
Appendix C - Acronyms and Abbreviations

C-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

HAP hazardous air pollutant 

HC hard copy 

HENRE High-Energy Neutron Reactions Experiment 

HEPA high-efficiency particulate air 

HRMP Hydrologic Resources Management Program 

HTO tritiated water 

HVAC heating, ventilation, and air conditioning 

HW hazardous waste 

HWAA Hazardous Waste Accumulation Area 

HWSU Hazardous Waste Storage Unit 

hr hour(s) 

ID identification number 

IDL instrument detection limit 

IL investigation level 

in. inch(es) 

INL Idaho National Laboratory 

ISMS Integrated Safety Management System 

ISO International Organization for Standardization 

IT International Technology Corporation 

JASPER Joint Actinide Shock Physics Experimental Research 

JIT just-in-time 

K potassium 

kg kilogram(s) 

kg/d kilogram(s) per day 

km kilometer(s) 

km2 square kilometer(s) 

L liter(s) 

LANL Los Alamos National Laboratory 

lb pound(s) 

LC Critical Level (synonymous with Decision Level) 

LCA lower carbonate aquifer 

LCS laboratory control sample 

L/d liter(s) per day 

LLMW low-level radioactive mixed waste 

LLNL Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory 

LLW low-level radioactive waste 

L/min liter(s) per minute 

log logarithmic 

Lpm liter(s) per minute 

LQAP Laboratory Quality Assurance Plan 
Appendix C - Acronyms and Abbreviations

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 C-5 

μCi/m3 microcurie(s) per cubic meter(s) 

μCi/mL microcurie(s) per milliliter 

μg/L microgram(s) per liter 

μR/hr microroentgens per hour 

m meter(s) 

m2 square meter(s) 

m3 cubic meter(s) 

M&O Management and Operating 

MAPEP Mixed Analyte Performance Evaluation Program 

MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act 

MCL maximum contaminant level 

MDC minimum detectable concentration 

MEDA Meteorological Data Acquisition 

MEI maximally exposed individual 

MET meteorological 

mGy/d milligray(s) per day 

mg/L milligram(s) per liter 

mi mile(s) 

mi2 square mile(s) 

mm millimeter(s) 

mmhos/cm millimhos per centimeter 

MQO Measurement Quality Objectives 

mR milliroentgen(s) 

mR/d milliroentgen(s) per day 

mR/yr milliroentgen(s) per year 

mrad millirad(s) 

mrem millirem(s) 

mrem/yr millirem(s) per year 

MSA management self-assessments 

MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet 

mSv millisievert(s) 

mSv/yr millisievert(s) per year 

MT magnetotelluric 

mton metric ton(s) 

MW mixed waste 

NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards 

NAC Nevada Administrative Code 

NAGPRA Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act 

NCA Nevada Combined Agency 

NCRP National Council on Radiation Protection 
Appendix C - Acronyms and Abbreviations

C-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

NDEP Nevada Division of Environmental Protection 

NDOA Nevada Department of Agriculture 

NEPA National Environmental Policy Act 

NESHAP National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants 

NHPA National Historic Preservation Act 

NLVF North Las Vegas Facility 

NNHP Nevada Natural Heritage Program 

NNSA U.S. Department of Envergy, National Nuclear Security Administration 

NNSA/NSO U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office 

NOx nitrogen oxides 

NPDES National Pollution Discharge Elimination System 

NPTEC Non-Proliferation Test and Evaluation Complex 

NRC U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission 

NRHP National Register of Historic Places 

NRS Nevada Revised Statutes 

NSPS New Source Performance Standards 

NSTec National Security Technologies, LLC 

NTS Nevada Test Site 

NTSER Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 

NTTR Nevada Test and Training Range 

NVLAP National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program 

ODS ozone-depleting substance 

OI operating instruction (DRI) or organization instruction (NSTec) 

OSTI Office of Scientific and Technical Information 

oz ounce(s) 

P03U Pit 3 Mixed Waste Disposal Unit 

P06U Area 5 Asbestiform Low-Level Solid Waste Disposal Unit 

P2 pollution prevention 

P2/WM pollution prevention/waste minimization 

PA Performance Assessment 

PAAA Price-Anderson Amendments Act 

Pb lead 

PCB polychlorinated biphenyl 

pCi picocurie(s) 

pCi/g picocurie(s) per gram 

pCi/L picocurie(s) per liter 

pCi/mL picocurie(s) per milliliter 

PI prediction interval 

PIC pressurized ion chamber 

PLall prediction limit for all enriched tritium measurements 
Appendix C - Acronyms and Abbreviations

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 C-7 

PM particulate matter 

PM10 particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter 

POTW Publicly Owned Treatment Works 

ppm part(s) per million 

PT proficiency testing 

PTE potential to emit 

Pu plutonium 

PWS public water systems 

QA quality assurance 

QAP Quality Assurance Program 

QAPP Quality Assurance Program Plan 

QA/QC quality assurance and quality control 

QC quality control 

R roentgen(s) 

rad radiation absorbed dose (a unit of measure) 

rad/d rad(s) per day 

Rad/NucCTEC Radiological/Nuclear Countermeasures Test and Evaluation Complex 

RCD Radiological Control Department 

RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 

rem roentgen equivalent man (a unit of measure) 

RER relative error ratio 

RFP request for proposal 

RPD relative percent difference 

RREMP Routine Radiological Environmental Monitoring Plan 

RSL Remote Sensing Laboratory 

RWMC Radioactive Waste Management Complex 

RWMS Radioactive Waste Management Site 

s second(s) 

SA Supplement Analysis 

SAA Satellite Accumulation Area 

SAFER Streamlined Approach for Environmental Restoration 

SAP Sampling and Analysis Plan 

SARA Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act 

SC specific conductance 

SD standard deviation 

SDWA Safe Drinking Water Act 

SE standard error of the mean 

SHPO Nevada State Historic Preservation Office 

SI International System of Units 

SNHD Southern Nevada Health District 
Appendix C - Acronyms and Abbreviations

C-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

SNJV Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture 

SNL Sandia National Laboratories 

SORD Special Operations and Research Division 

SO2 sulfur dioxide 

SSC structures, systems, and components 

S.U. standard unit(s) (for measuring pH) 

Sv sievert(s) 

SWO Solid Waste Operations 

TaDD Tactical Demilitarization Development Project 

TDR time domain reflectometry 

TDS total dissolved solids 

TLD thermoluminescent dosimeter 

TOC total organic carbon 

TOX total organic halides 

TPCB Transuranic Pad Cover Building 

TRI Toxic Release Inventory 

TRU transuranic 

TSCA Toxic Substances Control Act 

TSS total suspended solids 

TTR Tonopah Test Range 

UGTA Underground Test Area 

U.S. United States 

USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

USAF U.S. Air Force 

USC United States Code 

USGS U.S. Geological Survey 

UST underground storage tank 

VOC volatile organic compounds 

VZM vadose zone monitoring 

WEF Waste Examination Facility 

WGS Waste Generator Services 

WIPP Waste Isolation Pilot Plant 

WM waste minimization 

WSI Wackenhut Services, Inc. 

WSS Work Smart Standards 

WNV West Nile virus 

WO Waste Operations 

WW water well 

yd yard(s) 

yd3 cubic yard(s) 

yr year(s) 
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File No. 1-5-96-F-33, August 22, 1996, Reno, NV. 

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, 1983. Radiological Assessment. Report NUREG/CR-3332, J. E. Till and 

H. R. Meyer, Editors, Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation, Washington, D.C. 

U.S. Public Health Service, 1963. Project SEDAN, Final Off-Site Report, AEC Report PNE-200F, Offsite Radiological 

Safety Organization, Las Vegas, NV. 

Utah Population Estimates Committee, 2008. Subcounty Population Projections (Total Population), Governor’s Office of 

Planning and Budget, from Internet URL: http://governor.utah.gov/dea/popprojections.html, as accessed 

on 5/19/2008. 

Warren, R. G., D. A. Sawyer, F. M. Byers, Jr., and J. C. Cole, 2003. A Petrographic/Geochemical and Geophysical Database, 

and Stratigraphic Framework for the Southwestern Nevada Volcanic Field. LANL Report LA-UR-03-1503, Los 

Alamos, NM. 

Warren, R. W., and R. F. Grossman, 2008. National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants, Calendar Year 2007. 

DOE/NV/25946--483, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site 

Office, Las Vegas, NV. 

Williams, J., E. L. Wallin, B. D. Rodriguez, C. R. Lindsay, and J. A. Sampson, 2007. Magnetotelluric Data, Mid Valley, 

Nevada Test Site, Nevada, U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2007-1123. OSTI ID: 913351 

Wills, C. A., and W. K. Ostler, 2001. Ecology of the Nevada Test Site: An Annotated Bibliography, with Narrative Summary, 

Keyword Index, and Species List. DOE/NV/11718--594, Bechtel Nevada, Ecological Services, Las Vegas, NV. 

World Meteorological Organization, 2002. Manual on the Global Observing System, Vol. 1, WMO No. 55, Secretariat of 

the World Meteorological Organization, Geneva, Switzerland. 

Zavarin, M., S. Roberts, P. Reimus, and M. Johnson, 2007. Summary of Radionuclide Reactive Transport Experiments in 

Fractured Tuff and Carbonate Rocks from Yucca Flat, Nevada Test Site, UCRL-TR-225271, Lawrence Livermore 

National Laboratory, Livermore, CA. 
References

R-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 
Distribution List

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 DL-1

Distribution List 

All individuals in this list will be mailed a compact disc of this report and a hard copy (HC) of the abbreviated Nevada 

Test Site Environmental Report Summary 2007. One or more HCs of this report will be mailed to only those individuals 

specified. 

DOE and NNSA Headquarters

Assistant Secretary for Environmental Management (EM-1/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 (1 HC) 

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Regulatory Compliance (EM-10/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Engineering and Technology (EM-20/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Planning and Budget (EM-30/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Capital and Business Services (EM-40/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of 

Energy, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Director, Office of Health, Safety and Security (HS-1/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 (2 HC) 

Director, Office of Health and Safety (HS-10/270 Corporate Square Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585-0270 (1 HC) 

Director, Office of Nuclear Safety, Quality Assurance and Environment (HS-20/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department 

of Energy, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 (1 HC) 

Director, Office of Corporate Safety Analysis (HS-30/Germantown Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585-1290 (1 HC) 

R. L. Natoli, Office of Analysis (HS-32/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 1000 Independence Avenue 

SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 (3 HCs) 

Director, Office of Independent Oversight (HS-60/Germantown Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585-1290 (1 HC) 

Administrator, National Nuclear Security Administration (NA-1/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 (1 HC) 

Principal Deputy Administrator, National Nuclear Security Administration (NA-2/Forrestal Building), 

U.S. Department of Energy, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Deputy Administrator for Defense Programs (NA-10/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Assistant Deputy Administrator for Research Development and Simulation (NA-11/Forrestal Building), 

U.S. Department of Energy, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Assistant Deputy Administrator for Military Application and Stockpile Op (NA-12/Forrestal Building), 

U.S. Department of Energy, Forrestal, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 
Distribution List

DL-2 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Assistant Deputy Administrator, Office of the Assistant Deputy Administrator for Program Integration (NA13/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Director, Office of Programming, Budgeting and Execution (NA-133/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Director, Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management (RW-1/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 

Under Secretary for Science, Office of Science (SC-1/Forrestal Building), U.S. Department of Energy, 

1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585 (1 HC) 

Associate Director, Office of Safety, Security, and Infrastructure (SC-31/Germantown Building), U.S. Department of 

Energy, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20585-1290 

DOE

B. Holmes, DOE Idaho Operations Office, 1955 Fremont Ave., Mailstop 1216, Idaho Falls, ID 83415 

Deputy Director, Office of Repository Development, U.S. Department of Energy, 1551 Hillshire Drive, Las Vegas, 

NV 89134 

EPA

Kandice Bellamy, Waste Management Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region IX, 75 Hawthorne 

Street, San Francisco, CA 94105 

Director, Air Division, Region IX, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 75 Hawthorne Street, San Francisco, CA 

94105 (1 HC) 

Deputy Director, Radiation & Indoor Environments National Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 

P.O. Box 98517, Las Vegas, NV 89198-8517, M/S 513 

Director, Radiation & Indoor Environments National Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 

P.O. Box 98517, Las Vegas, NV 89198-8517, M/S 513 

Director, Center for Environmental Restoration, Monitoring, and Emergency Response, U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency, P.O. Box 98517, Las Vegas, NV 89198-8517, M/S 513 

Eleanor Thorton-Jones, EPA, Office of Radiation and Indoor Air, Radiation Protection Division, Center for Waste 

Management, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, MC 6608J, Washington, D.C. 20460 

ARL/SORD

Director, Air Resources Laboratory, Special Operations and Research Division, P.O. Box 94227, Las Vegas, NV 

89193, M/S NSF516 (1 HC) 

LANL

Environmental Surveillance Program Manager, Los Alamos Site Office, 3747 West Jemez Road, Los Alamos, NM 

87544 

J. M. Dewart, Los Alamos National Laboratory, P.O. Box 1663, Los Alamos, NM 87545, M/S J992 

WES-EDA ASER Coordinator, Los Alamos National Laboratory, P.O. Box 1663, Los Alamos, NM 87545, 

M/S M992 
Distribution List

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 DL-3

LLNL

M. J. Dunning, DOE/NNSA Livermore Site Office, 7000 East Avenue, L-170, Livermore, CA 94551 (1 HC) 

Vijay Mishra, DOE/NNSA Livermore Site Office, 7000 East Avenue, L-293, Livermore, CA 94551 

Program Leader, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 

SNL

D. R. Bozman, Sandia National Laboratories, P.O. Box 238, Mercury, NV 89023, M/S NTS944 

S. E. Lacy, Sandia National Laboratories, P.O. Box 5800, Albuquerque, NM 87185-0184 (1 HC) 

D. D. Thomson, Sandia National Laboratories, P.O. Box 238, Mercury, NV 89023, M/S NTS944 

DTRA

Environmental Restoration Manager, DTRA/CXTS, 1680 Texas St. SE, Kirtland Air Force Base, NM 87117-5669 

(1 HC) 

Project Engineer, Environmental Restoration, Detachment 1, Nevada Operations, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, 

P.O. Box 208, Mercury, NV 89023-0208, M/S NTS645 

Chief, Detachment 1, Nevada Operations, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, P.O. Box 208, Mercury, NV 

89023-0208, M/S NTS645 

State of Nevada

Chief, Bureau of Air Pollution Control, Nevada Division of Environmental Protection, 901 South Stewart Street, 

Suite 4001, Carson City, NV 89701-5249 

Chief, Bureau of Federal Facilities, Nevada Division of Environmental Protection, 2030 E. Flamingo Rd., Suite 2002, 

Las Vegas, NV 89119 

Gregg Raab, Bureau of Federal Facilities, Nevada Division of Environmental Protection, 2030 E. Flamingo Rd., 

Suite 2002, Las Vegas, NV 89119 (1 HC) 

Chris Andres, Bureau of Federal Facilities, Nevada Division of Environmental Protection, 2030 E. Flamingo Rd., 

Suite 2002, Las Vegas, NV 89119 

Supervisor, Radiological Health Section, Bureau of Health Protection Services, Nevada State Health Division, 

4150 Technology Way Suite 300, Carson City, NV 89706 (1 HC) 

Krista Coulter, Nevada State Clearinghouse, Capitol Complex, 209 E. Musser St., Carson City, NV 89710 

State Departments of Environment and Health

Director/Health Officer, Southwest Utah Public Health Department, 260 East DL Sargent Dr., Cedar City, UT 84720 

Director, Bureau of Radiation and Occupational Health, 288 N. 1460 West, P.O. Box 16690, Salt Lake City, UT 

84116-0690 

Director, Division of Air Quality, State Department of Health, 150 N. 1950 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116 

Director, Environmental Improvement Division, Department of Health and Environment, 1190 Saint Francis Drive, 

Santa Fe, NM 87503 
Distribution List

DL-4 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Director, Radiation and Hazardous Waste Control Division, Department of Health, 4210 E. 11th Avenue, Denver, CO 

 80220 

Director, Santa Barbara Health Care Services, 315 Camino Del Remedio, Santa Barbara, CA 93110 

DRI

Colleen Beck, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 (1 HC) 

Scott Campbell, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 

Jenny Chapman, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 

Steve Curtis, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 

Dee Donithan, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 (1 HC) 

Harold Drollinger, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 (1 HC) 

Ken Giles, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 

William Hartwell, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 (1 HC) 

Barbara Holz, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 (1 HC) 

Robert Jones, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 

Lynn Karr, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 (1 HC) 

Barbara Kennedy, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 

Cheryl Martin, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 

Greg McCurdy, 2215 Raggio Parkway, Reno, NV 89512 

Amy Russell, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 

Charles Russell, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 (1 HC) 

Craig Shadel, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 (1 HC) 

David Shafer, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 (1 HC) 

Jeffrey Tappen, Desert Research Institute, 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119, M/S 433 

NSTec

D. C. Anderson, Environmental Technical Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, 

NV 89193-8521, M/S NTS260 

A. V. Burns, Spatial Sciences, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8521, 

M/S NTS780 

E. C. Calman, Environmental Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS327 

Director, Environmental Management, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NLV022 (1 HC) 
Distribution List

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 DL-5

T. M. Dao, Occupational Safety & Health, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS918 

J. L. Dixon, Solid Waste Operations, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS250 

S. L. Drellack, Science and Technology, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NLV082 

A. L. Gile, Contractor Assurance, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8521, 

M/S NLV118 

C. C. Gonzales, Radioactive Waste, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS110 

S. J. Gordon, Radioactive Waste, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8521, 

M/S NLV083 

P. D. Greger, Environmental Technical Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, 

NV 89193-8521, M/S NTS260 

Manager, Environment, Safety, Health & Quality, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, 

NV 89193-8521, M/S NTS327 (1 HC) 

R. F. Grossman, Environmental Technical Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, 

NV 89193-8521, M/S NTS273 

D. J. Hansen, Environmental Technical Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, 

NV 89193-8521, M/S NTS260 

O. L. Haworth, Environmental Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS327 (1 HC) 

B. C. Hopkins, Waste Facilities and Operations, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

 89193-8521, M/S NTS304 

D. B. Hudson, Radioactive Waste, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NLV083 

Mark McMahon, Radiological Control, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS271 

D. A. Nichols, Defense and Civil Projects, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NLV103 

P. K. Ortego, Environmental Management, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NLV082 

W. K. Ostler, Environmental Technical Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, 

NV 89193-8521, M/S NTS260 (1 HC) 

P. M. Radack, Environmental Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS327 (1 HC) 

T. J. Redding, Environmental Technical Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, 

NV 89193-8521, M/S NTS273 (1 HC) 
Distribution List

DL-6 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Glenn Richardson, Environmental Restoration, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

 89193-8521, M/S NTS306 

D. D. Rudolph, Solid Waste Operations, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS250 (1 HC) 

G. T. Schmett, Solid Waste Operations, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS250 

C. Soong, Environmental Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS327 

T. H. Wallace, Environmental Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

89193-8521, M/S NTS327 

R. W. Warren, Environmental Technical Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, 

NV 89193-8521, M/S NTS273 (1 HC) 

C. A. Wills, Environmental Technical Services, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 

 89193-8521, M/S NTS260 (1 HC) 

President and General Manager, National Security Technologies, LLC, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8521, 

M/S NLV001 (1 HC) 

PAI

Wayne Morris, Professional Analysis, Inc., 537 E. Brooks Ave, North Las Vegas, NV 89030, M/S 422 

SNJV

W. A. Bliss, Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 

J. M. Fowler, Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

W. R. Griffin, Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 

P. K. Matthews, Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

T. D. Taylor, Stoller-Navarro Joint Venture, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 

USGS

R. P. Graves, U.S. Geological Survey, 160 N. Stephanie St., Henderson, NV 89074-8829 

National Nuclear Security Administration Program Manager, U.S. Geological Survey, 160 N. Stephanie St., Henderson, 

NV 89074-8829 

Libraries

Alamo Branch Library, P.O. Box 239, Alamo, NV 89001 (1 HC) 

Amargosa Valley Library District, HCR 69, P.O. Box 401-T, Amargosa Valley, NV 89020 (1 HC) 

Beatty Library District, P.O. Box 129, Beatty, NV 89003 (1 HC) 

Boulder City Library, 701 Adams Blvd., Boulder City, NV 89005 (1 HC) 
Distribution List

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 DL-7

Caliente Branch Library, P.O. Box 306, Caliente, NV 89009 (1 HC) 

Cedar City Public Library, 303 N 100 E Cedar City, UT 84720-2610 (1 HC) 

Delta City Library, 76 N. 200 W. Delta, UT 84624-9440 (1 HC) 

Goldfield Public Library, P.O. Box 430, Goldfield, NV 89013 (1 HC) 

Henderson District Public Library, 280 Water Street, Henderson, NV 89015 (1 HC) 

Indian Springs Library, P.O. Box 629, Indian Springs, NV 89018 (1 HC) 

Lincoln County Library, P.O. Box 330, Pioche, NV 89043 (1 HC) 

Milford Public Library, P.O. Box 579, Milford, UT 84751-0579 (1 HC) 

Moapa Valley Library, P.O. Box 397, Overton, NV 89040 (1 HC) 

Office of Scientific and Technical Information, Technical Center, U.S. Department of Energy, P.O. Box 62, 

Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (1 electronic copy) 

Pahrump Library District, 2101 E. Calvada Boulevard, Pahrump, NV 89048 (1 HC) 

Public Reading Facility, Nuclear Testing Archive, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear 

Security Administration P.O. Box 98521 Las Vegas, NV 89193-8521, M/S 400 (1 HC) 

Technical Library, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration, 

P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

Tonopah Library District, P.O. Box 449, Tonopah, NV 89049 (1 HC) 

UNLV Library Government Documents, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, P.O. Box 457013, Las Vegas, 

NV 89154-7013 (1 HC) 

Alisa Huckle, Business & Government Information Center/322, University of Nevada Libraries, 1664 North Virginia 

Street, Reno, NV 89557-0044 (1 HC) 

Washington County Library, 50 S. Main Street, St George, UT 84770-3490 (1 HC) 

White Pine County Library, 950 Campton Street, Ely, NV 89301 (1 HC) 

Miscellaneous

Community Advisory Board for Nevada Test Site Programs, c/o Navarro Engineering, 2721 Losee Rd, Suite D, 

North Las Vegas, NV 89030 (5 HCs) 

Manager, Desert National Wildlife Refuge Complex, 4701 N. Torrey Pines Dr., Las Vegas, NV 89130 

Ann-Marie Choephel, Nuclear Waste Repository Project Office, P.O. Box 1767, Tonopah, NV 89049 

Larry Coch, Dyncorp, P.O. Box 569, Indian Springs, NV 89018 

C. B. Davis, EnviroStat, 3468 Misty Court, Las Vegas, NV 89120 

Steve Deandi, Western Governmental Association, 223 Old P.O. Road, Boulder, CO 80302 

J. R. Dyer, Yucca Mountain Site Characterization Office, 1551 Hillshire Dr., Suite A, Las Vegas, NV 89134 
Distribution List

DL-8 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Michael Estrada, 4370 N. Washington Blvd., Suite 223, Nellis AFB, NV 89191 

Dane Finerfrock, Director, Division of Radiation Control, Department of Environmental Quality, 168 North 1950 

West, P. O. Box. 144850, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-4850 

Pete Fledderman, Washington Savannah River Co., Bldg. 735-B, Aiken SC 29802 

Vernon Gabbard, Tonopah Test Range, P.O. Box 871, Tonopah, NV 89049 

N. W. Golchert, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Argonne, IL 60439 

William Mackie, Program Manager, Nuclear Waste Transportation Western Governors’ Association, 1515 Cleveland 

Place, Suite 200, Denver, CO 80202-5114 

Mason and Hanger, Environmental Protection Department, Silas-Mason Co., Inc., Pantex Plant, P.O. Box 30020, 

Amarillo, TX 79177 

Mark Morse, Bureau of Land Management Las Vegas Field Office, 4701 N. Torrey Pines Dr., Las Vegas, NV 89130 

Juan Palma, Bureau of Land Management, Las Vegas Manager, 4701 North Torrey Pines Drive 

Las Vegas, NV 89130 

David and Natalie Spicer, P.O. Box 897, Beatty, NV 89003 

Superintendent, Death Valley National Monument, P.O. Box 579, Death Valley, CA 92328 

David Swanson, Nye County Nuclear Waste Repository Project Office, 1210 E. Basin Road, Suite #6, Pahrump, 

NV 89048 

Bob Swedock, Tetra Tech, Inc., 5205 Leesburg Pike, Suite 1400, Falls Church, VA 22041 

CEMP

J. Randall Allen, P.O. Box 93, Panaca, NV 89042 (1 HC) 

Kaye Allisen-Medlin, HCR 61, Box 30, Alamo, NV 89001-9706 (1 HC) 

Marina Anderson, 1151 “A” Avenue N, P.O. Box 869, Beatty, NV 89003 

M. D. Baldwin, 1646 North 175 West, Cedar City, UT 84720 

B. L. Benson, 606 Lake Superior Lane, Boulder City, NV 89005-1057 

N. J. Bowler, P.O. Box 368, Logandale, NV 89021 

B. W. Brown, P.O. Box 61, Shoshone, CA 92384 

Roy Clifford, Jr., P.O. Box 206, Tonopah, NV 89040 (1 HC) 

Nate Cooper, 4958 Green Oak Lane, P.O. Box 118, Hereford, AZ 85615 

C. Crookshanks, P.O. Box 150464, Ely, NV 89315 

D. M. Curry, 8207 Burnt Sienna, Las Vegas, NV 89123 

A. Day, 4385 S. 4000 W., Delta UT 84624 

Michael DeLee, P.O. Box 96, Amargosa Valley, NV 89020 
Distribution List

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 DL-9

B. P. DeWyze, P.O. Box 295, Delta, UT 84624 

Paul Donohue, P.O. Box 291, Pioche, NV 89043 

Jacqueline Durham-Moore, HCR 61, Box 65, Alamo, NV 89001 

Joe and Sue Fallini, HC 76, P.O. Box 1100, Tonopah, NV 89040 (1 HC) 

K. G. Garey, BarBQ Ranch, Box 1, Amargosa Valley, NV 89020 

M. L. Gay, P.O. Box 369, Milford, UT 84751 

L. B. Goins, 2440 South River Plate Drive, Pahrump, NV 89048 

C. S. Graf, P.O. Box 237, Alamo, NV 89001 (1 HC) 

L. L. Hafen, 1009 Providence Lane, Boulder City, NV 89005 

C. M. Hardy, P.O. Box 299, Alamo, NV 89001 

Lawrence Hathhorn, 1182 Pebble Beach Drive, Mesquite, NV 89027-2554 

G. F. Hein, 612 Largo Azul Avenue, Henderson, NV 89015 

Mike Heizer, Garden Valley, P.O. Box 33, Hiko, NV 89017 (1 HC) 

Marg Herndon, 764 Summerview Lane, Corvallis, MT 59828 

Michael Herndon, 8104 Squaw Springs Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89131 

J. M. Hopkin, P.O. Box 597, Indian Springs, NV 89018 (1 HC) 

Robert Hopkins, P.O. Box 3516, Pahrump, NV 89041 

M. E. Howard, P.O. Box 935, Tonopah, NV 89049 

D. E. Jensen, 2982 South 300 East, Box 25, Milford, UT 84751 

R. A. Johnson, P.O. Box 626, Beatty, NV 89003 (1 HC) 

Ronald Johnson, P.O. Box 332, Goldfield, NV 89013 

V. G. Johnson, P.O. Box 765, Indian Springs, NV 89018 

J. C. Lisle, P.O. Box 357, Beatty, NV 89003 

Larry Martin, 1200 Avenue H, Ely, NV 89301 

K. F. McFate, P.O. Box 373, 470 W. Raleigh Lane, Indian Springs, NV 89018 

S. and G. Medlin, HCR 61, Box 80, Alamo, NV 89001 (1 HC) 

Rex Mike, P.O. Box 140103, Duckwater, NV 89134 

Ricky Mike, 161 Second Street, Duckwater, NV 89134 

Scott Mortensen, 143 S. Main, St. George, UT 84770 

J. W. Nelson, P.O. Box 232, Logandale, NV 89021 
Distribution List

DL-10 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

Donald Newman, 141 Sunbow, Cedar City, UT 84720 

D. J. Peltz, 10194 Eden Falls Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89183 

B. H. Perkins, P.O. Box 495, Caliente, NV 89008 

J. D. Pruitt, 263 South Main Street, Cedar City, UT 84720 

T. C. Sauvageau, P.O. Box 1674, Tonopah, NV 89049 

GN&M Sharp, Nyala Ranch, HC 76, Box 900, Tonopah, NV 89040 (1 HC) 

Jon Skullestad, P.O. Box 593 Goldfield, NV 89013 (1 HC) 

A. P. Smith, P.O. Box 101 Caliente, NV 89008 

Kenneth Smith, P.O. Box 114, Shoshone, CA 92384 

G. V. Sorensen, 421 Circle Way Drive, Cedar City, UT 84720 (1 HC) 

Dell Sullivan, P.O. Box 182, Alamo, NV 89001 (1 HC) 

Joan Terrell, P.O. Box 454, Goldfield, NV 89013 (1 HC) 

Helen Uhalde, Uhalde Ranch, P.O. Box 88, Ely, NV 89301 

Christopher Vogel, 107 Navajo Street, Mesquite, NV 89027 

Curt Walker, 903 Coyote Way, Dammeron Valley, UT 84738 

Gayle Williams, HCR 61, Box 24, Alamo, NV 89001 

NNSA/NSO

Manager, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration, P.O. Box 98518, 

Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

Deputy Manager, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration, 

P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

Site Counsel, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration, P.O. Box 

98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

Assistant Manager for Business and Contract Management, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, 

National Nuclear Security Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 

Program Manager, Office of Public Affairs, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security 

Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

Public Affairs Director, Office of Public Affairs, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear 

Security Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

Assistant Manager for Environmental Management, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear 

Security Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

Assistant Manager for National Security, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security 

Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 
Distribution List

Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 DL-11

Assistant Manager for Safety and Operations, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear 

Security Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 

Assistant Manager for Safeguards and Security, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear 

Security Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 

FFACO/EMIS Administrator, Program Support Group, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, 

National Nuclear Security Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 

Team Leader, Environmental Protection, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security 

Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

L. M. Cohn, Environmental Protection Team, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear 

Security Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

B. W. Hurley, Environmental Protection Team, Nevada Site Office, U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear 

Security Administration, P.O. Box 98518, Las Vegas, NV 89193-8518, M/S 505 (1 HC) 

 
Distribution List

DL-12 Nevada Test Site Environmental Report 2007 

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Schooner Crater