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L <br />Myron Gunsalus, Director of the Environmental Laboratory at Harbor Branch, <br />expressed his pleasure at addressing the Board and gave a brief background of Harbor <br />Branch's history. He noted that there are 7 divisions at Harbor Branch: (1) Division of <br />Engineering Research and Development, (2) Division of Biomedical Research, (3) Division <br />of Marine Science, (4) Marine Education and Conference Center, (5) Environmental <br />Laboratory Division, (6) Division of Aquaculture, and (7) Division of Marine Operations. <br />He advised that Harbor Branch can probably do the testing required and provide assistance <br />if given the questions that need answers. They are supported by fees for services and enjoy <br />challenges but the County must define the questions they want answered. This is a decision <br />to be made solely by the County but Harbor Branch would be more than happy to work with <br />them. Mr. Gunsalus then handed out brochures and information relative to Harbor Branch's <br />operations. (COPIES OF BROCHURES ARE AVAILABLE WITH THE BACKUP OF <br />THIS ITEM.) <br />Dr. He Zhong emphasized that the County's problem is Harbor Branch's problem. <br />He discussed the environmental testing of water and noted that he is, of course, concerned <br />about the quality of the water. He noted there are all kinds of contaminants, and treatment <br />in large part depends on how much contaminant is present, where it is located and how toxic <br />it is. Water contamination is a complex problem and there are lots of questions. He stressed <br />that nature will do wonders for us if we take care of her, good environmental science is an <br />ancient art but a new science. He invited everyone to come see the operation at Harbor <br />Branch and noted that Harbor Branch wants to be a good neighbor. <br />The Chairman opened the public discussion and asked if anyone wished to be heard <br />regarding this matter. <br />Sidney Turner of 8775 201 Street expressed the highest respect for Dr. Zhong but <br />felt the point was being missed. He did not believe that today's water is the problem, but felt <br />the emphasis should be on the problem in 1979. At that time there were 68 parts per billion <br />TCE contamination in the water and the County citizens were subjected to that water for <br />several years. Dr. Zhong brought the contamination to our attention but he was concerned <br />about the health effects on citizens from that contaminated water. He believed that Florida <br />Department of Health should investigate the health effects on the County's citizens and <br />believed that they have the funding to do those investigations. <br />MARCH 24, 1998 <br />0 is <br />