3/24/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

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