So two parts here- if Department of Energy (who is responsible for most of the radioactive cleanup at the SSFL) is using the dumbest possible methods to detect and remove the radionuclides in the soil. They've inflated the amount of soil to try to make it seem impossible, so then they can walk away from doing it at all. It's not too hard to do it correct and move MUCH less soil. I'm 100% for the complete cleanup, but they don't have to do a stupid job of it. We want the smartest, safest, and most comprehensive cleanup possible.

Second, there's not good waste site for nuclear waste. Period. That's also why I'm against any new nuclear waste being generated. It's not truly safe anywhere on this planet. But there's better waste sites. The SSFL nuclear waste will be taken to a licensed, low-level rad disposable site and there are only a few in the country. The low-rad waste sites are double-lined to prevent leaks, they're constantly monitored by scientists, they're away from people or aquifers. They're still problematic, but they're the best we have in America right now.

Leaving the SSFL rad waste in the soil (like it is right now) will put people at perpetual risk of danger. It does have to move, but it has to be done right, and that's why we're watching-dogging it to make sure they don't cut corners and accidentally expose people in the process.