History

The Southern California Federation of Scientists, SCFS, is an interdisciplinary organization of mathematicians, scientists, engineers, and scholars dedicated to providing independent analyses on issues of science affecting society and public policy. Founded shortly after the Second World War by former Manhattan Project scientists, the organization has applied science in the public interest to many issues, in particular to the reduction of risks associated with the production and use of nuclear power and nuclear weapons. For over three decades SCFS has provided comments and analysis regarding the cleanup of the Santa Susana Field Laboratory (SSFL) in Simi Valley, which suffered nuclear accidents at four of its ten operating nuclear reactors in the course of its history (including a partial meltdown), as well as toxic material associated with rocket engine production that took place at the facility. Given the impact on the surrounding population, the pressing need for cleanup is ongoing.