From fossils to frowns

Dear Editor:

I think many would agree with me when I say that finding these fossils is one of the most wonderful and exciting things that has happened in the Roaring Fork Valley in many years. This discovery could not only give Snowmass Village (and even the valley) a much-needed economic boost, but greatly improve our knowledge of the area and of these prehistoric animals. The importance of these fossils is of great understanding to not only me, but people all over the country.

What I don’t understand, however, is why the Snowmass Water and Sanitation District acts like this is just digging up cool things; it is so much more than that. They seem so proud of these finds, yet they still plan on have this ancient burial site drowned by this time next year. I think it is great that they are allowing the museum to handle the excavation and are giving them some time to find these fossils – but the time restraint is simply ridiculous.

I am all for helping the community and doing what is best for its needs, but when it means throwing away ancient history, that’s were my support ends. I am completely outraged that anyone would even considering flooding this historic treasure chest. They have found five species in three days – nobody can possibly imagine what lies beneath the untouched earth. It is so heart-wrenching to think people are willing to just throw this history away; history that will be gone forever. The reservoir expansion can be put on hold – these fossils have waited long enough.

I can only hope that everyone will do the right thing and stand up against this historical dishonor.

Kelsey Richards

Carbondale