Educating. Organizing. Empowering.

About the Lincoln Park/Cotter Superfund Site

We Educate about Toxic and Radioactive waste

Founded in 2002, Colorado Citizens Against Toxic Waste (CCAT) is a grassroots, non-profit organization driven by a team of dedicated volunteers from diverse backgrounds with a stake in the future of Fremont County Colorado. From educators and healthcare workers to business professionals and retirees, we are united by our shared love for our region’s unique treasures: Nature’s Beauty, Clean Air, Fresh Mountain Water, and amazing people.



Our mission is to educate and inform the public regarding toxic and radioactive waste.
 
Our focus is the Lincoln Park/Cotter Superfund Site where contamination from the industrial operations of Cotter Corporation released hazardous and radioactive waste into the groundwater and environment. For two decades, CCAT has championed our community through research, communication and advocacy. We believe an informed populace is best protected from ongoing environmental threats

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How it Started

CCAT’s journey began in 2002 with the Cotter Corporation’s announcement of plans to import 450,000 tons of radioactive and toxic waste from the Maywood Chemical Works Superfund Site in New Jersey. Several residents took a collective stand to protect Canon City from becoming a radioactive waste dump that would have been detrimental to the environment and public health.


CCAT Directors and supporters are dedicated to facilitating within the community a curriculum about the Lincoln Park/Cotter Superfund Site. The contamination here is part of the landscape and lives in geologic time. Just like an Ocean. It needs to be understood so people can live safely with it and learn from it.

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How to Shape Your Future

Help direct the change!

Your involvement can make us stronger and your voice is important in this conversation.


Join us today and take an active role in demanding the best clean-up for our region’s natural beauty, ensuring a healthier environment for present and future generations. We believe in the strength of unity, and we can build a future of education and full disclosure about the toxic waste at this local Superfund site.

  • To Become a Director on the Board of Colorado Citizens Against ToxicWaste Inc.

    Write a letter of interest to: Board of Directors, Colorado Citizens Against ToxicWaste Inc, PO Box 964, info@ccatoxicwaste.org  Cañon City, CO 81215-0964. Include your desire to serve, and why. Include your background and any special talents or expertise you have. Don’t forget to include your contact information. The CCAT Board meets the last Monday of each month. The time commitment will fluctuate depending on current events and what you are able to help with.

  • To Attend the monthly Community Advisory Group (CAG)

    Join community members in-person at the Pueblo Community College Fremont Campus.


    Third Tuesday each month at 3PM

     

    Join via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81798813847?pwd=UkltaFRTMWg4a3ZybWY0TEhPSnN1Z… (password: 719458)


    To participate by phone (no video): 1-719-359-4580, pin 81798813847#, password 719458#


  • To join The Community Advisory Group (CAG)

    Write a letter of interest to  

    CAG Chairperson Emily Tracy, etbreck@gmail.com and 

    CAG Vice-Chairperson Jeri Fry, jerilfry@gmail.com 


    Include your desire to serve, and why. Include your background and any special talents or expertise you have. Don’t forget to include your contact information. The CAG meets the third Tuesday of each month details will come to you when you sign up for email notification. The time commitment will fluctuate depending on current events.


    Sign up for email notification at this address cdph.colorado.gov.


    You may contact interim Community Involvement Officer, Venissa Ledesma at venissa.ledesma@state.co.us . Venissa is with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE)


  • To read CDPHE Frequently asked questions about the Lincoln Park/Cotter Superfund Site.

    Pleave visit CAG Meetings FAQ

  • To Volunteer with CCAT

    There are many things that you might like to do to help CCAT such as research, museum docent, radio appearances, printing, fact checker and more.


    Click here to volunteer.

  • To donate to CCAT

  • To Visit the Superfund Exhibit at the Museum

    Go to Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center

    612 Royal Gorge Blvd, Cañon City, CO 81212


    Open Wednesday through Saturday


    10AM to 4PM


    Click here to view the map.

  • TO UPCOMING EDUCATIONAL EVENTS

    PCC Senior Mini College The 38th edition of the event will be held March 18-22, 2024. Registration begins March 1 at the Fremont campus, 51320 W. Highway 50. The class schedule and registration will be available in late February. 

    Jeri Fry will be teaching three classes on the Lincoln Park Cotter Superfund Site

    For more information about attending, teaching or sponsoring the event, call 719-296-6116 or email trina.jiron@pueblocc.edu.

  • TO WATCH CCAT’S VIDEOS

    To watch the videos in the Gallery, click here.

  • TO READ THE DAILY RECORD’S "COTTER AT THE CROSSROADS"

    The Daily Record won the Scripps Howard Award for environmental reporting with this in-depth reporting of the Lincoln Park/Cotter Superfund Site. This digital version has more stories than the print version.


    Click here to read the publication.

  • To find your elected officials and their contact information

    Click the link to access the website. 


    USA.GOV

F E A T U R E S

Resources for Community Involvement

How You Can Engage

Community Empowerment

Engage with a community that has already mobilized over the last two decades. Tell your story about Cotter.


Send it to us in writing or request a first-person interview with the Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center

Educational Impact

Actively address the lack of awareness about the Lincoln Park/Cotter Superfund Site.

 

Request a speaker for your class, organization or event.

Legislative & Regulatory Influence

Contribute to our established efforts responding to Colorado elected officials at all levels, CDPHE (Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)



With a letter or comment  or

With your $ toward this work



Positive Environmental Impact

Be part of the solution to the United States’ 250 million tons of radioactive and hazardous waste produced annually.


Learn about the Nuclear Fuel Cycle

Contact CCAT

Networking Opportunities

Connect with a network of individuals actively addressing contamination from the Cotter uranium mill which spread to touch roughly 13,000 acres in Fremont County

Personal Fulfillment

Nearly 22% of the US population lives within 3 miles of a Superfund Site. There is an important role for you in understanding our Lincoln Park/Cotter Site.

Our Achievements And Impact

CCAT's dedicated efforts have led to remarkable accomplishments. From successfully halting the import of radioactive waste from Maywood, New Jersey, to advocating for the cleanup of the former Cotter Uranium Mill, our endeavors have had a tangible impact on our community and the environment.


Our significant achievements include revision of the Radiation Control Act of Colorado. This led to increased public participation in decision-making processes related to radioactive waste management and enforced more stringent measures to prevent the inappropriate disposal of such waste. Our work has been recognized locally and nationally as a testament to our unyielding commitment to environmental protection and community well-being.



CCAT has raised awareness and empowered citizens. Our efforts have resulted in many changes including these:

  • Formation of a Community Advisory Group
  • Gained Party Status for our community in Cotter’s license renewal hearing (2005)
  • Conducted a grassroots health survey which led to an Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) assessment
  • Gained a $50,000 EPA TAG Grant to publish a lay-person edition of the State Administrative Record.
  • Testified in four State laws that revised the Radioactive Control Act of Colorado


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Making A Difference, Together

CCAT stands at the forefront of disclosure about toxic waste in Colorado, specifically Fremont County. Our efforts over the years have led to significant changes in environmental policy and industrial practices. We played a crucial role in revising the Radiation Control Act of Colorado and contributed significantly to the closure of the Cotter Corporation Uranium Mill.


Our work continues beyond there. We demand the best cleanup of the former Cotter Uranium Mill site and regularly call on independent scientists to help us in reviewing and participating in ongoing discussion with the State and Federal Regulators. This is all done by volunteers and people like you who do what you can when you can. Attend Public meetings of the Community Advisory Group.

Get in Touch

 Tell Us Where You Fit In

Take Our 3-minute Survey

(16 questions)

In this survey, we seek to understand what you know about the Lincoln Park/Cotter Superfund Site. Your answers will be confidential and yet will help us develop effective community programs. CCAT does not sell you email to anyone but will send you breaking news unless you tell us not to by replying STOP to the first (or any) email you get from us.

Take the Survey

Disclaimer: Your privacy is important to us. This survey is designed to collect general feedback and will not request or store any personal information. We value your confidentiality, and any details you choose to provide will remain anonymous. Please avoid sharing sensitive or personally identifiable information in your responses. Your participation is voluntary, and by proceeding, you acknowledge and accept these privacy terms. If you have concerns or questions about data security, please contact us. Thank you for your participation.

The Heart of Giving

CCAT is a non-profit 501(c)3 local grassroots organization. So, your donation is tax deductible. Our Board Directors and volunteers are not paid. Contributions go toward embedding a curriculum in the community as well as disclosure projects about the local Superfund Site and how to live with our toxic radioactive neighbor.


With your support, we can educate more people about the dangers of toxic waste, facilitate critical scientific research, hold public meetings, and advocate for a healthier Fremont County.


Suggested Donation Amounts:

$25 - provides lab supplies for testing air or water

$50 - provides room rental for a Public hybrid (Zoom & In-person) meeting

$100 - provides our post office box for a year

$150 - provides one-hour independent consulting scientist fee

$250 - provides direct mail notification to Superfund-affected citizens

$500 - provides one public meeting

You name the amount

Send a check and avoid processing fees for both you and CCAT.

Mail your check to PO Box 964, Canon City, CO 81215-0964


Remember, all proceeds from donations go directly to cover our expenses for legal support, independent science consultants, educational materials, programs for the public, website maintenance, and representing our community at hearings. CCAT Directors and volunteers are not paid. Your contributions are tax-deductible.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • What contributes to the effectiveness of Colorado Citizens Against Toxic Waste?

    Colorado Citizens Against Toxic Waste has become exceptionally popular as a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of toxic waste and advocating for responsible waste disposal practices. The organization's clear mission and purpose, rooted in its non-profit status, resonate with individuals passionate about environmental conservation. Through educational initiatives, community engagement, and impactful grassroots campaigns, Colorado Citizens Against Toxic Waste, as a non-profit organization, actively involves the community in its mission, creating a strong network of like-minded individuals. The organization's legislative impact further exemplifies the influential role that non-profit organizations can play in shaping policies for environmental well-being. By transparently communicating its achievements and collaborating with other entities, Colorado Citizens Against Toxic Waste has not only solidified its status as a reputable non-profit organization but has also emphasized the crucial role such organizations play in fostering a sustainable future.



  • What makes Colorado Citizens Against Toxic Waste So Effective?

    CCAT has become a respected voice as a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the dangerous contamination in our environment and advocating for the BEST cleanup of the Lincoln Park/Cotter Superfund Site. CCAT has engaged with the regulators since 2002, insisting on transparency and accountability from all players. Clearly rooted in its mission and purpose, CCAT has actively involved the community creating a strong network of people who care about the future of Fremont County, Colorado. CCAT’s legislative impact further exemplifies their influential role in shaping policies for environmental well-being. Through effective fact-checked communication and collaboration with other entities, CCAT has become a reputable non-profit organization with a crucial role in fostering a sustainable future.

  • Why is it important to raise awareness about toxic waste?

    Raising awareness about toxic waste is crucial because improper disposal poses significant risks to the environment and public health. Many people are unaware of the hazards associated with toxic waste, and by fostering awareness, we empower individuals to make informed decisions, promote responsible waste management, and actively contribute to a safer, cleaner future.

  • How can I get involved with Colorado Citizens Against Toxic Waste?

    Getting involved with us is easy! You can join our community events, participate in educational workshops, or contribute to our fundraising campaigns. Whether you're interested in volunteering your time, attending awareness drives, or supporting our initiatives financially, your involvement is crucial in the collective effort to create a cleaner, safer environment. 


    Explore opportunities to engage and make a difference - Click here for ways to get involved.

  • Where is the museum exhibit about this Superfund Site?

    CCAT’s guest curated exhibit is at the Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center located at 612 Royal Gorge Blvd., Canon City, CO 81212

    Hours are 10AM to 4PM Wednesdays through Saturdays. 


    Check on there website - https://museum.canoncity.org/

  • Where is the schedule for the Community Advisory Group?

    The best way to engage with the Community Advisory Group is to sign up for email notifications on the CDPHE Website. 


    CDPHE SITE

    SIGN UP FOR CDPHE UPDATES

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