The Mosaic Company is pushing to expand its massive phosphate waste site in Riverview, Florida—bringing 48 million more tons of mildly radioactive phosphogypsum closer to our homes, wetlands, and Tampa Bay itself. If approved, this expansion would keep Mosaic’s toxic waste operations active for another 20 years, threatening our environment and public health for decades to come.

Phosphogypsum contains radium, which decays into radon gas—a known cancer risk. Despite being labeled “mildly” radioactive, it still poses serious dangers. These stacks can tower hundreds of feet high, and one already suffered a stormwater breach during Hurricane Milton, releasing polluted water into the bay. Now Mosaic wants to build even closer to the coast, on land that includes federally protected wetlands and sits in one of the nation’s most hurricane-vulnerable regions.

This isn’t just about one community. This is about the long-term safety of Hillsborough County, the health of Tampa Bay’s fragile ecosystem, and our right to clean air and water. Residents weren’t consulted when Mosaic quietly began purchasing land—including the former East Bay Raceway—and planning this $260 million expansion. Even now, much of the decision-making is happening behind closed doors, between Mosaic and state or federal agencies.

We can’t let this go unchecked.

We call on the Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to deny all permits for Mosaic’s proposed gypstack expansion. Protecting people and preserving our environment must come before corporate convenience.

Our communities deserve transparency, safety, and a future not overshadowed by radioactive waste.

Sign now to stop Mosaic’s expansion and demand environmental justice for Florida.

Photo: DIRK SHADD | Tampa Bay Times