Early studies focused on the effects of radiation on plants and animals within the site, which contains diverse habitats ranging from Carolina bays to swamps to planted timber and natural hardwoods. The ecology lab is known across the country for its research into marine life. Dr. Gibbons said. The mix of pollution and nature creates the ultimate setting for research that can help create strategies that are useful in resolving problems elsewhere in the world. So you have a comparative situation.
Scientists also have decades of data to draw from when reaching their conclusions.
The site has been off limits to all but the most controlled activities since the Atomic Energy Commission created the secure area. Dr. Gibbons said. I go back and look at photographs of places I work now. Ellenton Bay, for example, is a swampy, wet area that is home to many aquatic animals and plants. In 1976, it was surrounded by cleared cotton fields and cornfields.