Blog: Protecting Colorado's Treasures for Years to Come

Statement

One of Colorado's greatest treasures is its natural beauty. From the red cliffs in Western Colorado through the breathtaking vistas and spectacular mountain ranges to the rolling Eastern Plains, generations Coloradans have enjoyed this nature for recreation and solitude. The scenic landscape draws tourists from near and far who also enjoy our land and water.

Our kids and grandkids -- and generations after them -- should have that same opportunity. There are steps we can take to preserve the land for them. Congress created the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) in 1964, giving Colorado and local communities throughout our state access to funding for conservation projects that enhance outdoor recreation opportunities. These resources help safeguard our state's natural heritage and drive our outdoor recreation-based economy.

Last week, I joined 40 of my colleagues in the Senate to call on Senate leadership to work with us on a permanent funding solution for the LWCF. Not only do the projects funded by the LWCF protect our open space, but they are a smart investment. A recent study found that for each dollar invested in conservation projects, communities generated a $4 return. With Colorado receiving around 231million dollars in LWCF funding over the past four decades the economic impact in our state is significant.

In Colorado, we've had a lot of recent success protecting our natural resources. Just this past August, we learned Sawtooth Mountain Ranch would receive the necessary funds to protect the land from future development. That project will complement the 15,000 acres of land that has already been protected along the San Juan Skyway.

We also celebrated the protection of 1,145 acres of pristine forestland in the Ophir Valley in July. This land is now part of the Uncompahgre National Forest and will protect wildlife habitat, water quality, and provide a connected landscape for the public to hike and explore.

The State Assistance Program of the Land and Water Conservation Fund has also funded around $58 million dollars of projects in Colorado to fund urban parks, paths and ball fields. Under this program funds are being provided to help rebuild the St Vrain River trail in Lyons Colorado that was damaged by the 2013 floods.

Coloradans know that our land and water resources are precious, and we must be responsible stewards to ensure future generations can continue to enjoy them. A permanent funding solution for the Land and Water Conservation Fund is the best way we can make sure that happens. LWCF is America's greatest land conservation program, and if Congress does not act by September 2015, then this program will be put on hold. We will continue to work in Congress to ensure that the Land and Water Conservation Fund is both renewed and fully funded.

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