The statistics are shocking—children at Colorado schools are exposed to increased health risks in areas where oil and gas development already impacts our air, water, and health. Colorado Rising for Communities advocates for safer setbacks and stronger protections to keep oil and gas operations away from our schools and safeguard our children’s health.
The sad truth is that Weld County students (along with a handful of schools in Garfield County) face disproportionately higher exposure to oil and gas infrastructure and spills compared to their peers elsewhere in Colorado.
With 96 wells within one mile of the school, Kenneth Homyak PK-8 in Dacono ranks number 22 on our list of most impacted schools in Colorado. An oil spill at the nearby Firecracker tank battery in May 2023 required the excavation and removal of 240 dump truck loads of contaminated soil (source).
The True Impact of Fracking on Colorado Schools
How many oil and gas wells are within one mile of the average Weld County school? If you guessed “about a dozen,” you’re not even close. Take the Frack to School quiz to test your knowledge and uncover the startling reality facing Colorado students. You’ll explore real data about impacted schools in Weld County and across the state. The answers might surprise you.The Health Impacts of Oil & Gas
A recent Colorado study found that air pollution from oil and gas operations creates health risks that exceed safe levels, even after companies use pollution controls. The research documented elevated cancer risks and unsafe levels of chemicals that harm breathing, immune systems, and brain development. Earlier studies have shown people near oil & gas wells suffer asthma attacks 1.5 to 4 times more often, with children being especially vulnerable.
An old pump jack at a shut-in well operated by KP Kauffman sits less than 400 ft north of Legacy Elementary in Frederick, Colorado. With 116 wells within one mile, Legacy Elementary is number 18 on our list of most impacted schools in Colorado.
Your Voice Matters
We want to better understand how these operations affect Colorado communities. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, student, or concerned citizen, your input helps us advocate effectively for protective policies. We’re committed to engaging with impacted communities to educate and activate local stakeholders.
We’d love for you to share your perspective, please take our short survey!
Here is what you can do
For Teachers
Attend Colorado Rising’s Annual Youth Summit with your peers and students.
Colorado Rising for Communities can help you develop lesson plans about fracking and its effects in the community to share with students and concerned community members.
Colorado Rising for Communities can put together oil and gas impact statistics for your school. Contact us for more information!
For STUDENTS
Attend Colorado Rising’s Annual Youth Summit with your classmates and teachers.
Start or join an Environmental Club at your school.
Share your story! We’re collecting stories from Coloradans impacted by fracking near schools. Share your story with photos or short a video, and we’ll amplify your voice.
For Everyone
Elected officials are often unaware of how fracking disproportionately impacts families in schools. Tell them your story!
Send a letter to your state Senator and Representative:
Send a letter to state oil and gas regulators (ECMC):
Send a letter to your local School Board (use sample letter here)
Send a letter to your county’s elected officials (use sample letter here)
Your Support Matters
Your donation matters more than ever as we continue to raise awareness about this issue, please consider supporting our work.