Dear Editor:

Earth Day means something different to each of us. For some, it means planting a tree or taking that favorite hike to that special place or helping your child with a special school project.

For those of us who appreciate the many attributes of the area identified by the Thompson Divide Coalition for protection from industrial exploration and development in order to protect the natural and recreational attributes of the area, Earth Day has special meaning.

---

---

Our watersheds (five major watersheds provide for both municipal and agricultural needs), our wildlife (habitat, calving areas, migration routes for elk and deer, cutthroat trout, mid-elevation species) our ski areas (Sunlight Peak and Spring Gulch), our hiking and biking trails, rock-climbing opportunities, summer grazing necessities for the valley’s ranchers, our sanctuary, our wild lands … these attributes make this the unique place for which we must be appropriate and active stewards of the land.

Protection of our air and water quality and of the quality of life we all enjoy requires dedication, commitment and work. The Thompson Divide Coalition works to inform, educate and represent all those who have extended their support for this cause. Representatives of the oil and gas industry with leases in the area of concern have been contacted, and the coalition is working with industry, affected agencies and elected officials to resolve our issues and protect this special place for all to appreciate and enjoy.

---

---

Thanks for your continued support.

Dorothea Farris

Member, Thompson Divide Coalition

Carbondale