Through the years thousands of 55-gallon drums of the waste were stored outside, in an unprotected earthen area called the '903 pad, became corroded and leaked radionuclides over the years contaminating and leaching into the soil, as well airborne in the heavy winds of the Front Range and contaminating offsite areas to the south and east.
Throughout the many reports after the 1967 fire, one realizes the regulations and safety issues to the highest standards necessary to contain the plutonium, were lacking. The large glove boxes which held the microscopic particles of plutonium were destroyed releasing radioactive smoke to escape the building and become airborne to the surrounding offsite areas. And management not enforcing safety rules to the highest degree for their employees.
After the 1969 fire, and an awareness of health hazards, demonstrations began to occur with thousands of people protesting the continuation of Rocky Flats which beginning in 1975 was managed by Rockwell International.
Dr Carl Johnson in 1981 showed a study of a 45% increase of congenital birth defects, with an overall 16% increase in cancer rates for those living closest to the plant. His findings were not accepted by the powers that be and thus he was fired.
Broomfield still used the Great Western Reservoir as part of their water supply. Those living west of Main St were served by the Great Western Reservoir and those living east of Main St having its water supply furnished by Denver Water. As for the Moyers, George and I decided in 1974 to move east of Main. Neighbors would ask why we were moving, and not wanting to be an alarmist, verbally I simply would say, we wanted a two-car garage.
By the time we moved, I was selling real-estate. When buyers who financed their homes with FHA or VA loans, were required to sign a statement acknowledging they understood they lived within a 10 miles radius of Rocky Flats. If they financed with a conventional loan putting 20% down no disclosure of the dangers of Rocky Flats was required. I did verbally disclose to all my buyers they should be aware of living within 10 miles of Rocky Flats. By the 70's things were monitored and potentially there was no danger.
There were studies done finding people were 2.5 times as likely to have brain cancer as well as chronic beryllium disease and issues they deal with today.
There were many studies and report done, all with conflicting results. Life had us turning to other milestones in our life, and if per chance we were not touched personally my Rocky Flats, it just became part of our history.
A developer did build a community called Candelas, south of Rocky Flats. Although there was some opposition, if you drive out there you will see a large community, complete with commercial buildings and offices. It tells me that people will always discount danger if something looks bright, and shining and new. The new term for Candelas is called a "plutonium dust bowl."
Today there are still disputes regarding Rocky Flats. One being the completion of the E-470 parkway through this area. As of today, it has been put on hold. The fear being digging up the soil that is still contaminated with plutonium will become airborne.
The second was the opening of the Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge Act drawn up in 2011. It is today enjoyed by many for hiking, biking and walking their dog. Some are still skeptical of the possibility of the remains of particles of plutonium.
In conclusion Dr. Mark Johnson states in the book 'Doom with a View, ' ""...the more I learned about the nuclear and hazardous waste pollution occurring around the plant, the more I came to question the underlying narrative that this was fundamentally a patriotic enterprise protecting America from its enemies. The ultimate lack of accountability, it appeared to me that the Rocky Flats contractors had contaminated Jefferson County and its residents indiscriminately with no fear of consequences.'
I have attempted to give you a few of the highlights from Wikipedia 'Rocky Flats contamination from the Rocky Flats Plant.' You may wish to read the whole article, as I may
have interpreted some areas incorrectly.
My hope is this is Informative.
Next week we'll look at some lighter history of Broomfield.
Here's to a victory of CU over Nebraska and the Broncos over the Raiders!
Grace and peace,
Dotti