The concerted efforts of several members of the state's congressional delegation have helped preserve a program to turn plutonium into nuclear fuel at the Savannah River Site. Administration officials can only persist with frustrating negotiations with their Russian counterparts so that nation's less secure nuclear stockpiles can be neutralized as well.

The House Armed Services Committee restored funding for the SRS plant in the defense authorization bill at the request of Reps. John Spratt and Joe Wilson. The committee also agreed to sever the link between the U.S. and Russian programs, so that the SRS project won't be jeopardized by Russian inaction.

That's essential to prevent South Carolina from remaining the repository for weapons-grade plutonium awaiting conversion at SRS. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., says the total volume of plutonium for fuel conversion is sufficient for 17,000 warheads. Once it undergoes the conversion process, the material can't be used for weapons.

Rep. Spratt explains: "MOX fuel is one option for dealing with the security problems posed by weapons-grade plutonium, and it's an attractive option if it also results in the disposal of Russian plutonium, and keeps fissile material from falling into the hands of terrorists."

Half of the plutonium is stockpiled in Russia, under less than ideal circumstances. Russia's cooperation is essential if the primary security goal of the program is to be met. So far, its response has been far less than expected, considering the fact that much of the project expense will be borne by the U.S.

Keeping the post-Cold War program on track is important for the state's interest and vital to national security. South Carolina's congressmen have emerged as persuasive advocates for its progress.