The Santa Susana Field Lab (formerly known as Rocketdyne or Rockwell) was used for rocket engine tests for “America’s Race to Space,” beginning in 1949, and for experimental nuclear work beginning in 1953. The site was also used for rocket fuel, liquid metals, and chemical laser research. The site stopped all operations in 2006. Although many of the buildings onsite have been demolished the soil and groundwater remain heavily contaminated today.

The 2,850-acre site is one of California’s most toxic sites and the site of one of America’s worst nuclear meltdowns. The SSFL facility experienced four nuclear accidents, including the infamous SRE meltdown that may have released more radiation than the Three Mile Island accident.

Additionally, there were multiple radioactive fires, accidents in the plutonium fuel facility, leaks, hazardous waste burning, illegal waste practices, and an explosion that killed two scientists. The site also hosted over 30,000 rocket engine tests, resulting in over 800,000 gallons of TCE contaminating the soil and groundwater, in addition to leaks of highly toxic and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (many have since been federally banned) and toxic metals.

Over the years the Santa Susana Field Lab has been utilized and owned by different government agencies and companies. Boeing is responsible for the soil and groundwater cleanup at 80% of the SSFL. NASA and the Department of Energy are also “Responsible Parties.”