The boat that you saw, the Dominion I, is in fact from Dominion Nuclear Connecticut (i.e. Millstone Env. Lab). They are required to do environmental monitoring as part of their permit to generate power. A Scientific Collector’s Permit is issued by DEP so they can assess the effects of Dominion Generating facilities on the aquatic environment.
This type of monitoring has been ongoing since before the plant went on line and will continue for a time period after they go off line. Environmental Monitoring Studies typically involve obtaining Pre-Operation, Operation and Post-Operation data collection. At any time during the life of a Power Plant it is possible to have sound scientific data that will give solid evidence of any changes to the environment. Regulatory Authorities use this information to provide assistance with the operation of such a facility to minimize any environmental impact to the area.
The study involves ecological and radiological monitoring of Millstone Point and adjacent area. The fisheries research involves a mark recapture study of winter flounder and lobster in the adjacent waters. A mark recapture study involves the use of a dragger to catch the fish, a tag is inserted into the fish, a measurement is taken and the fish is released back to the waters from which it came without avoidable injury. When the recapture portion of the study is done the percentage of tagged and untagged fish is compared and a population size is calculated. Over a period of several years population sizes can be compared and growth rates may be estimated thus keeping track of the population dynamics of a target species.
Small amounts of fish are retained for radiological analysis.
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