INVESTIGATING CORRELATION BETWEEN NATURALLY OCCURRING RADIONUCLIDES IN VERMONT PRIVATE WELLS AND INDOOR AIR

The occurrence of radionuclides in indoor air and drinking water is due to the naturally occurring uranium and daughter radionuclides, such as radium and radon, in rock and soil. Radon is a gas that can seep through rock fractures and soil into homes through cracks or holes in the foundation. Uranium and radium may exist in drinking water as they dissolve into water from the surrounding rock. The presence of radionuclides in air and water in Vermont was investigated to understand and identify geographical areas of concern. Overlay analysis and statistical methods were used to evaluate the concurrence of multiple radionuclides, to better understand human exposure and provide better testing recommendations to the public. Besides highlighting the extent of radionuclides in private wells in Vermont, this talk will cover the successes and obstacles of targeted outreach efforts concerning radionuclides in Southern Vermont.