Atomic Testing On a Raft

The Hydrographic Atomic Testing Team readies their gear for a special field test.

Arriving at the marsh, Vice President Nixon watches as the men begin to perform their testing. Some launch their rafts and move to the other side of the stream. Dr. Henderson accompanies the team because of the presence of a distinguished visitor.

The rafts are deployed all along the stream bed. The marsh is not too far outside the North Gate of the Atomic Testing Base. It has rained recently and the water level is pretty high.

A few last minute words of briefing and the men prepare to deploy their testing gear. The work is very sensitive and careful observations are necessary. Some of these men are wildlife experts and will survey for larger animals to determine the effects of the atomic testing on higher mammals. The marsh is home to opossum, raccoons, bobcats and even once in a while a mountain lion will come down from the hills.

The men are looking at the ground to determine if there are animal prints before they launch their boats. Any evidence of animal activity is important to make a proper survey.