In a deeply troubling development that has stirred the hearts of scientists, engineers, and compassionate residents across the region, alarming levels of uranium have been detected in the sacred waters of Chimney Hollow Reservoir, a vital infrastructure project taking shape in the close-knit community of Larimer County, Colorado. This unexpected and concerning revelation emerges at a pivotal moment when the cherished values of water security, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of all living beings are at the forefront of the collective consciousness for countless communities throughout the American West, inspiring a unified call to protect our shared natural heritage.
According to joint statements from Northern Water and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), preliminary testing shows uranium concentrations as high as 1,000 parts per billion (ppb) in some areas of the reservoir site. To put this into perspective, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set the maximum acceptable limit for uranium in drinking water at 30 ppb. The presence of uranium at over 30 times that threshold is triggering swift response actions and deeper investigations into the geological and structural materials used in the reservoir’s construction.
This revelation is significant not only for local water consumers but also for policy makers and environmental scientists monitoring long-term sustainability of the region’s natural resources. Though the reservoir has not yet been commissioned to deliver water to the public, its eventual role as a critical supply point for over a dozen Colorado communities means this issue is far from minor.
Dangerous Levels of Uranium Found in Colorado
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Chimney Hollow Reservoir, Larimer County, Colorado |
| Issue | Uranium leaching from granite rock in the cofferdam |
| Detected Levels | Over 1,000 ppb in early tests (EPA drinking water standard = 30 ppb) |
| Water Source Impacted | No water yet released; first fill phase still ongoing |
| Expected Usage Start | Reservoir expected to supply 12+ Colorado communities by 2027 |
| Health Risk | Long-term exposure to uranium can lead to kidney damage and increased cancer risk |
| Responsible Agencies | Northern Water, CDPHE, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) |
| Official Reference | Colorado Sun Report |
The unexpected discovery of uranium in the still-under-construction Chimney Hollow Reservoir serves as a poignant reminder of nature’s profound unpredictability, even in the face of humanity’s most advanced technological efforts and meticulous planning, urging us to approach our environment with humility and care. Gratefully, as the reservoir has not yet begun serving its cherished communities, a precious window of opportunity remains to compassionately address this challenge with thoroughness and dedication, safeguarding the well-being of all who will rely on its waters.
With careful monitoring, robust infrastructure planning, and an informed public, Colorado can turn this environmental curveball into an opportunity to build even safer, smarter water systems for future generations.
What Exactly Happened at Chimney Hollow?
The Chimney Hollow Reservoir is a central piece of Colorado’s Windy Gap Firming Project, intended to enhance water storage capacity and drought resilience across northeastern Colorado. Designed to hold over 90,000 acre-feet of water, the reservoir is seen as essential for supplying municipalities such as Greeley, Longmont, Loveland, and smaller communities in the surrounding region.
As the project entered its initial fill phase, monitoring teams noticed spikes in uranium concentration, particularly around the cofferdam — a temporary water barrier constructed using granite rock. Experts believe this granite, while structurally sound, contains naturally high concentrations of uranium-bearing minerals. When water interacts with these rocks, uranium slowly leaches into the reservoir’s water through a chemical process exacerbated by prolonged water contact and natural weathering.
“It was definitely not what we expected,” a Northern Water official said during a press briefing. “We routinely test for contaminants, but the levels we’re seeing in some sections prompted us to hit pause and dig deeper.”
Why Is Uranium Dangerous in Water?
Uranium, while naturally present in rocks and soil, poses significant health hazards when it enters the water supply. It is a radioactive heavy metal, and although its radiation risk is considered low in water, its chemical toxicity is a greater concern. Prolonged ingestion can impair kidney function, damage DNA, and potentially increase the risk of cancer.
Children and individuals with existing health issues are especially vulnerable. Chronic exposure, even at lower levels, can lead to serious medical complications. The EPA’s 30 ppb limit is based on years of toxicological research and is meant to safeguard public health over a lifetime of consumption. EPA Uranium Factsheet.
What Is Being Done Right Now?
Authorities are taking a comprehensive approach to deal with the situation, emphasizing transparency and community safety.
1. Suspending Reservoir Fill
Northern Water has officially paused further filling of the reservoir. This decision was made to prevent further uranium leaching and to allow time for further evaluation.
2. Ongoing Testing and Mapping
Scientists from both state and federal agencies are conducting extensive geological surveys and hydrochemical mapping to pinpoint contamination hotspots. This involves sampling at multiple depths and times of day.
3. Development of Treatment Plans
Engineers are currently reviewing several methods of uranium removal:
- Ion exchange units that target dissolved metals
- Reverse osmosis systems used in municipal treatment plants
- Adsorption media like activated alumina or specific ion resins
All proposed treatments aim to meet or exceed EPA standards before any water enters public distribution channels.
4. Engagement with the Public
Community briefings, informational town halls, and Q&A sessions are being planned to keep the public in the loop. Educational resources are also being distributed to local schools and health centers.
Broader Impacts for Colorado
Colorado has a complicated relationship with uranium. During the 20th century, the state was home to numerous uranium mining operations, particularly in places like Grand Junction, Naturita, and Uravan. While those sites contributed to national energy and defense programs, they also left behind contaminated soil, tailings, and water supplies.
Notable cleanup projects like the Schwartzwalder Mine near Golden and issues at Ralston Reservoir have cost millions and taken decades to address. These sites serve as a cautionary tale of what can happen when uranium contamination is ignored or inadequately managed.
In that light, Chimney Hollow represents both a modern engineering marvel and a reminder that environmental due diligence is non-negotiable.
Full Retirement Age Just Increased—Why Social Security Could Keep Raising the Bar
Florida TCA Payment Schedule for June Announced– Are You on the List?
TANF in June 2025: Exact Payment Dates and What to Do If Yours Is Delayed
What Can Residents Do Right Now?
1. Stay Informed
Monitor updates and safety bulletins from:
- Northern Water
- CDPHE
- Local city or county water districts
2. Test Private Wells
If your household uses well water, particularly near mountainous or granitic regions, arrange for a uranium water test. Many labs offer affordable home testing kits.
3. Install Home Filtration Systems
Look into NSF-certified reverse osmosis or ion-exchange systems specifically rated for uranium. These systems can significantly reduce exposure risks.
4. Participate in Community Discussions
Join community boards, attend town halls, or even volunteer with local environmental monitoring groups. Community participation helps ensure oversight and transparency.
FAQs
Q: Is my drinking water safe now?
A: Yes. Currently, no water from Chimney Hollow Reservoir is part of any municipal water supply.
Q: How do I know if uranium is in my water?
A: You must test your water. Municipalities are required to report annual water quality, but private well users should conduct independent testing.
Q: Does boiling water help?
A: No. Boiling water does not remove uranium and may concentrate it further.
Q: Are there long-term solutions planned?
A: Yes. Officials are exploring both natural attenuation and engineered filtration systems to ensure long-term safety.
Q: How much will this cost taxpayers?
A: While no final figures are available, the remediation and monitoring efforts may be integrated into future utility or municipal budgets.
