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Back to Which Way, L.A.?

Which Way, L.A.?

Will a Massive Source of Potential Cancer Finally Be Cleaned Up?

The Santa Susanna Mountains between the San Fernando and Simi Valleys is among the most contaminated places in the United States. For decades during and after World War II, it was used to test rocket fuel and nuclear materials. In 1959, a small nuclear reactor actually melted down there, an incident kept from the public for 20 years.

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By Warren Olney • May 12, 2014 • 1 min read

The Santa Susanna Mountains between the San Fernando and Simi Valleys is among the most contaminated places in the United States. For decades during and after World War II, it was used to test rocket fuel and nuclear materials. In 1959, a small nuclear reactor actually melted down there, an incident kept from the public for 20 years. In the meantime, houses were built on the slopes. But, even after they discovered what they were living on, many homeowners did not move away. Now, after generations of local effort, the state and federal governments have agreed to a cleanup. Midnight tonight is the last opportunity for public comment.

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Warren Olney

    former KCRW broadcaster

  • KCRW placeholder

    Andrea Brody

    Senior Producer, KCRW's Life Examined and To the Point podcast

  • KCRW placeholder

    Katie Cooper

    Producer, 'One year Later'

  • KCRW placeholder

    Dan Hirsch

    UC Santa Cruz / Committee to Bridge the Gap

  • KCRW placeholder

    Linda Parks

    Ventura County Supervisor

  • KCRW placeholder

    Devyn Gortner

    Founder, Teens Against Toxins

    News
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