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.

Issue updates

News Release | Environment Colorado

Environment Colorado Comments on the State of the Union

Last night, President Obama delivered his State of the Union Address to Congress.

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News Release | Environment Colorado

Cotter Corporation to stop processing uranium in Cañon City

On December 16, 2010, Cotter Corporation announced that it will stop processing uranium at its mill in Cañon City. The announcement comes two years after Environment Colorado helped pass a law designed to force the company to clean up or shut down.

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News Release | Environment Colorado

Victory for water and public accountability on mining

Colorado mining board votes unanimously to protect health, environment from uranium and hardrock mining impacts

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News Release | Environment Colorado

Citizens at Rocky Mountain Lake Park Join Hands to Draw Line in Sand Against Offshore Drilling; Events Around the U.S and World May Be the Largest Protest Against Offshore Drilling Ever

At noon, on the banks of Rocky Mountain Lake Park and at hundreds of beautiful beaches and parks around the U.S. and the world, activists joined hands and stood in lines to protest offshore oil drilling.

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News Release | Environment Colorado

Secretary Salazar unveils oil and gas reforms

Secretary Salazar today unveiled anticipated reforms for leasing public lands to oil and gas drilling

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