Factors Influencing the Accumulation of Fallout 137Cs in Colorado Mule Deer

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Abstract
Concentrations of 137Cs were measured by gamma-ray spectrometry in mule deer muscle tissues, air, precipitation, soils, and twelve forage species which were sampled over a 3-y period in north-central Colorado. Maximum levels of 137Cs in air, vegetation and deer occurred in 1963. Spring peaks were noted for both air concentrations and deposition of 137Cs. Maximal deposition of 137Cs occurred when both precipitation and air concentrations were high, and fallout levels in soil generally increased with elevation and precipitation averages. Vegetation collected above 8500 ft was generally higher in 137Cs than vegetation collected at lower elevations. Plant species varied significantly in radiocesium burdens. Leaves were generally higher than stems in 137Cs content. Deer collected above 8500 ft were significantly higher in muscle 137Cs concentrations than deer collected at lower elevations. Levels of 137Cs in deer were highly correlated with the mean levels in vegetation collected during common time periods. Neither age nor sex produced statistically significant variations in muscle 137Cs concentrations. Inhalation, the drinking of surface waters, and the ingestion of snow were minor sources of 137Cs intake by deer in comparison to the ingestion of forage.

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