Department of Energy Sites
Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program (FUSRAP)
Scioto Laboratory Complex

Marion, Ohio

In 1949, the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), now known as the Department of Energy, acquired a portion of the former Scioto Ordnance Plant in Marion, Ohio, from the War Assets Administration to construct a back-up facility for the Mound Laboratory in Miamisburg, Ohio. This back-up facility, known as Scioto Laboratory, was given a mission to produce polonium-beryllium initiators (triggers) for nuclear weapons. The Scioto Laboratory was never placed in production status because the Mound facility remained in operation and fulfilled the initiator production needs of the AEC. It is believed that little or no radioactive material was ever received or used at Scioto Laboratory since it never entered production. In 1953-54, the Scioto Laboratory was vacated and sold due to the development of new initiator technology being produced in Tampa, Florida. A radiological screening survey was conducted in 1995 which concluded that there were no observable gross areas of radiological contamination in the laboratory building. This survey did not include the waste disposal building, cooling tower, or exterior sampling of soil and surface water. The site is currently in the PA/SI stage of the CERCLA process. A historical site assessment is being conducted in accordance with MARSSIM guidance.

For environmental questions relating to this site, contact:

Steve Snyder
OEPA/Northwest District Office
(419) 352-8461

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