Letter: Listen to the people, BLM

Listen to the people, BLM

Very few issues have nearly unanimous support across the diverse communities of the Roaring Fork Valley, but the Thompson Divide is one of them. The people of our area have done an impressive job coming together to have our voices heard, and our leaders are listening. Thank you to U.S. Sens. Michael Bennet and Mark Udall for sponsoring middle-ground legislation to permanently protect the Thompson Divide, and to Gov. Hickenlooper for supporting the effort as well.

The next decision in the long process of protecting the 300 jobs and $30 million ranching and recreation economy that depend on this pristine landscape will be made April 1. The people have spoken: The Bureau of Land Management must deny further extension of the leases. These 220,000 acres are too valuable for wildlife, water and air quality, hunting, fishing, cattle and the way of life we want to pass on to our children and grandchildren. BLM: Just say “no.”

Amelia Potvin

Carbondale