This paper examines the role of Colorado's community-based child protection teams in the investigation and treatment of child abuse and neglect. The first section contains data from a survey of all Colorado counties as reported by team coordinators and members. It includes information on team composition, structure and operation, and training. The distribution of teams throughout the state is described, and staffing patterns and staff time spent on team activities are examined. The role of the team and its relationship to the Placement Alternatives Commission are discussed. A section on team meeting data looks at frequency of meetings, attendance, cases reviewed, and the creation of mini-teams to handle volume of cases. Team member responses to training issues are presented in text and graph form, and team coordinator comments are listed by county. The factors contributing to the success of a child protection team are examined in the second section. Issues of group dynamics, equal participation, commitment, recognition, logistics, training, leadership, mutual respect, task orientation, and desirable personality traits of members are discussed. Appendices contain lists of county teams, sections of relevant Colorado statutes, child protection team questionnaires for leaders and members, and a list of teams and coordinators. (NRB)