Lockheed Martin purchased the property from the American Beryllium Co. in 1996 after the plant had been closed. In January 2000, a plume of contamination was discovered on the property during routine property transfer assessments and reported to the Manatee County Environmental Management Department that included both soil and groundwater. Lockheed reported the finding of various organic solvents and inorganic contaminants to the department and volunteered to take corrective action. The company worked closely with the state and conducted assessment tests while removing over 500 tons of contaminated soils.

According to the Associated Press, the groundwater contamination plume is nearly 30 times larger than originally expected. At present, the plume covers at least 130 acres. Local residents are upset because every report disclosed has appeared to show the plume is larger than previously suspected. Lockheed is working closely with state authorities and current estimates are that it will take at least a decade to complete cleanup.

The plant is located on 5.167 acres and surrounded by mixed residential and industrial use property. American Beryllium operated on the property from 1957 to 1996.