Save the Grand Canyon from Toxic Mining
Mining companies are pushing to open toxic uranium mines within miles of the Grand Canyon. With your help, we can defend our national treasure from short-sighted exploitation.
1,100 mining claims next to the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s natural wonders. From its jagged cliffs to the winding Colorado River that runs through it — from the geologic history written on its walls to the 25 native species sheltered in its caverns.
But this national treasure is at risk: Mining companies have staked roughly 1,100 uranium mining claims within just five miles of Grand Canyon National Park. Toxic uranium mining poses a serious threat of contamination to the park itself, and to the 25 million people who drink water from the Colorado River.
After 300,000 speak out, Interior Dept. backs ban on mining near Grand Canyon
Our staff and members are tackling the threat. When we alerted our online activist network to the threat to the Grand Canyon, people sprang into action. We mobilized more than 300,000 Americans to demand stronger protections for the canyon.
In July, Anna Aurilio, director of our Washington office, released a report on the risks of mining near the canyon. Grand Canyon At Risk exposed the devastating legacy of mining near the canyon and throughout the west, including here in Colorado.
For example, residents of Lincoln Park, a small community near a uranium mill, have had to stop drinking well water because of contamination from the mill’s old tailings pools. Residents have suffered health consequences from uranium and other toxic substances in their water.
With your activism and our advocacy, we can protect the Grand Canyon and our drinking water
Your activism and our advocacy are a powerful combination. Thanks in part to our efforts, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced that he would consider a plan to put 1 million acres around the park off limits to mining for 20 years.
But mining companies and their allies in Congress haven’t given up the fight — and neither can we.
Some lawmakers in Wasington, D.C., are backing a bill that would prevent the administration from protecting the Grand Canyon. We need you to get involved if we’re going to defend the Canyon once and for all.
If enough of us speak out, we can ensure the Grand Canyon is protected. Join our campaign by sending the Obama administration a message today.
Urge the Obama Administration to protect the Grand Canyon from toxic mining.
Key Facts
- Mining companies have already staked more than 1,100 uranium mining claims within five miles of the Grand Canyon
- More than 300,000 people have demanded stronger protections for the Grand Canyon
- Interior Secretary Salazar’s plan would put 1 million acres around the park off limits to mining for 20 years