Dear Editor:

Current proposals by gas companies to develop gas in the Thompson Divide strike me as distinct from other issues in the valley. This is an issue that has gained broad-spectrum local opposition.

Residents, local governments and civic institutions all support protecting Thompson Divide from gas exploitation. We all are united on this front, so let's make sure to make our voices heard. Resident action and involvement, attending meetings, speaking out and writing to our elected officials and federal land managers (the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service) all are needed in service to our local lands.

With this in mind, I encourage people to attend the public meeting hosted at 6 p.m. today by Pitkin County at the Carbondale Town Hall. Representatives from gas companies, Pitkin County, the BLM and Forest Service all will be there - this is our chance to speak out for the protection of the Thompson Divide!

Ellie Taylor

Snowmass