[CPEO-MEF] Radioactive material found near McClellan

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[THIS ARTICLE ORIGINALLY RAN ON MARCH 3]

Radioactive material found near McClellan treated with caution

By Nathan Solheim, Star Staff Writer 

Anniston, Ala., March 3 - The Army discovered two radioactive elements 
within Anniston's city limits last October after an aerial survey of the 
former Fort McClellan. 

Signs of Cesium-137 and Cobalt-60, both of which emit high-energy gamma 
particles, were detected in a wooded area on city property more than 200 
yards away from the Lenlock Community Center. 
                               
Government officials, however, said there is no immediate health hazard 
stemming from radioactive elements, and radiation levels were low. 
                               
"There does not appear to be any immediate threat to public safety," 
said Tom Decker, a regional chief with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission 
in Atlanta. 
                               
The Army Corps of Engineers plans to erect a six-foot fence around the 
area covering 1,000 square feet within six weeks as a precautionary 
measure while federal and state authorities conduct a study to gauge 
contamination levels and plan for its removal. 
                               
While the exact amount of material is not fully known, officials said no 
one should ingest or come into contact with vegetation or soil from the 
area. 

The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.msnbc.com/local/anstar/m155058.asp