A pilot study on activity concentrations of 137Cs in wild mushrooms and freshwater fish in a restricted area (PILOT HGCS )

Aim of the study

The objective of the project was to study the variation in the ¹³⁷Cs concentrations of fish and mushrooms inside a local federation of six municipalities. The aim was also to test the measurements made in a local laboratory and provide experience for using a new measuring equipment.

Implementation

A local federation of six municipalities in an area with a relatively high deposition of ¹³⁷Cs in spring 1986 was chosen for the study. The samples of lake fish and wild mushrooms were taken in this area extensively in 2005. Finnish Food Safety Authority (Evira) was responsible for sampling, and STUK and the local laboratory for analysing the samples. Fish samples were taken from about 30 lakes, most of which were rather small, but used for recreational fishing. Mushroom samples were taken in different types of forests in various parts of the area. The samples were measured first at the local laboratory with the new measuring equipment, then sent to STUK, and measured there with a semiconductor gammaspectrometer. Evira made a contract with a laboratory for having the concentrations of mercury on the same samples analysed.

Dissemination and exploitation of the results

The project provides information on the local variation of activity concentrations of ¹³⁷Cs for local general public. Experience is provided on co-operation with food authorities in sampling and with the local laboratory in pretreatment and analysing of samples. Also information on the reliability of the measurements made in a local laboratory is obtained. The project improves co-operation in emergency situations and gives information on the usability of the measurements made in the local laboratories in monitoring the ¹³⁷Cs levels of wild foodstuffs (Commission recommendation 2003/274/Euratom) in present radiation situation. The results are reported together with Evira.

Collaborators

Evira, Finland; Sastamala Federation of municipalities, Finland

Timetable

2005-2007

Responsible scientists

Riitta Hänninen, Ritva Saxén and Eila Kostiainen

Page updated 15/05/2009