Keep Dangerous Radioactive Pollution Out Of The Mississippi River

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Sponsor: The Rainforest Site

Call for a 2030 shutdown of the the aging and leaking Monticello Nuclear Plant to protect our communities, health, and future from radioactive contamination.

Keep Dangerous Radioactive Pollution Out Of The Mississippi River

The Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant has leaked hundreds of thousands of gallons of radioactive water near the Mississippi River—an ecological and public health disaster waiting to happen1. Recent leaks have already caused a mass die-off of fish due to rapid temperature changes from the plant’s operations, disrupting the river’s delicate ecosystem2. Tritium, the radioactive substance found in the leaked water, could pose serious risks if it enters local drinking water sources or the Mississippi itself.

Tritium’s Lasting Impact on Wildlife and Health

Tritium has a half-life of over 12 years, and its effects on wildlife are well-documented; when animals ingest it, they may experience genetic mutations and severe health impacts3. Even though officials claim the current contamination hasn’t yet reached the river, environmental experts warn that ongoing leaks and the natural degradation of Monticello’s aging infrastructure make it only a matter of time before this contamination spreads4.

The Case for Clean Energy by 2030

Despite these risks, Xcel Energy, the utility company operating the Monticello plant, has proposed extending its operation beyond its original 2030 closure date. This plan would keep this outdated nuclear reactor active until at least 20405. Studies in Xcel’s own Integrated Resource Plan show that renewable energy solutions, such as wind and solar, are more cost-effective and provide a safer, sustainable option for Minnesota’s energy future2. Yet, instead of closing the plant and investing in these safer energy sources, Xcel is pushing to extend the life of a reactor that has already proven to be a liability.

Our Mississippi River and Communities at Risk

The Mississippi River is a critical water source for millions across multiple states and an essential part of our community’s history, economy, and environment. Allowing this reactor to continue operating for another decade risks exposing the river—and everyone who depends on it—to radioactive contamination. As Minnesota faces climate and environmental crises, the state has a duty to prioritize long-term safety and environmental responsibility.

Time for Our Leaders to Act

Our elected officials have a responsibility to act. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and the Governor’s office must enforce Xcel Energy’s originally planned 2030 shutdown and prevent unnecessary extensions that endanger the river, our communities, and our planet5. Renewable energy investment is not only affordable and effective but also essential for the health and safety of Minnesotans. We need leaders who will choose safety and sustainability over outdated, dangerous nuclear operations.

Stand Up for a Safer Future

Join us in demanding action. Sign the petition to tell the PUC and our state officials that the Monticello Nuclear Plant must close by 2030. Together, we can protect our water, our wildlife, and our future.

More on this issue:

  1. CBS News (28 March 2023), "Monticello Nuclear Plant Radioactive Leak: A Timeline."
  2. Kirsti Marohn and Anna Haecherl, MPR News (27 March 2023), "What We Know About the Monticello Nuclear Plant Tritium Leak."
  3. Minnesota Health Department (8 October 2023), "Xcel Energy Monticello Power Plant Tritium Leak."
  4. Kaitlyn Radde, NPR (19 March 2023), "Minnesota Nuclear Power Plant Leak Contaminated Water."
  5. Steve Karnowski, Associated Press (16 March 2023), "400,000 Gallons of Radioactive Water Leaked from a Nuclear Plant in Minnesota."

The Petition

The Attorney General of Minnesota, The Minneapolis City Council, and The St. Paul City Council,

We, the undersigned, call on the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to enforce a firm commitment to the 2030 closure date for the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant, as outlined in Xcel Energy's 2024-2040 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). We demand immediate intervention from the Attorney General, the Governor's office, and both the Minneapolis and St. Paul City Councils to ensure this deadline is upheld.

The recent radioactive leaks at Monticello raise serious concerns about the plant's safety and reliability. These incidents highlight the real and present dangers posed to public health, the Mississippi River, and the drinking water supply for millions of Minnesotans. Renewable energy sources, already demonstrated by Xcel's IRP to be more affordable, viable, and safer, provide the responsible alternative that our communities and environment urgently need.

In this era of climate crisis, it is the duty of Minnesota's government and utilities to invest ratepayer funds wisely—focusing on renewable, sustainable energy instead of further prolonging the life of aging, hazardous infrastructure. The continued operation of Monticello heightens the risks of radioactive contamination and opens the door to future disasters tied to age-related degradation. These dangers demand immediate action, especially as state offices have repeatedly failed to address concerns over the plant's safety, leaving the community in the dark.

We respectfully urge the Attorney General and the Minneapolis and St. Paul City Councils to demand that the PUC respect the 2030 closure date for the Monticello plant. Further, we call upon the Department of Commerce and Attorney General to intervene in Xcel's IRP to guarantee Monticello's replacement with reliable renewable energy sources that will safeguard our communities and natural resources.

For the sake of conservation and public welfare, the 2030 closure must be enforced. Maintaining this deadline ensures a transition toward cleaner, sustainable energy and a safer future for all Minnesotans. By committing to this timeline, our state can lead the way in protecting the health of our citizens and the environment, securing a better future for current and coming generations.

Sincerely,

DEV MODE ACTIVE. BRAND: gg