Overview

The Savannah River Site was constructed during the 1950's to produce the basic materials used in the fabrication of nuclear weapons, primarily tritium and plutonium-239. Five reactors were built on the site. The reactors produced nuclear materials by irradiating materials with neutrons. Also built were support facilities including two chemical separations plants, a water extraction plant, a nuclear fuel and target fabrication facility and waste management facilities.

Irradiated materials were moved from the reactors to the two chemical separations facilities -- the next step in the production process. In these facilities, known as "canyons," the irradiated fuel target assemblies were chemically processed to separate useful products from waste. After refinement, some nuclear materials were shipped to other Department of Energy sites for final use.

What You'll See

Basically the tour consists of a bus trip by the 5 reactors (L, P, C, R, and K) and the 2 canyons (F and H).

All adults receive a tour packet consisting of a Personal radiation dose chart, a SRS fact sheet, a SRS map, a tour evaluation form, a Recyclable SRS bag, and a SRS pen.

Public Tours Dates and Times

Anyone is welcome to tour SRS. The only restrictions are that groups must consist of 10 people, all of whom must be U.S. citizens at least 16 years old. Tours are usually scheduled four to six weeks in advance. Days fill quickly, especially during the school year. Although rare, groups less than 10 people can sometimes be accommodated. For additional information call (803) 644-6817 or (803) 644-6969.

How to Get There

The Savannah River Site is located about 20 miles south of Aiken, South Carolina or 20 miles southeast of Augusta, South Carolina.

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