Thank Bennet! Let Tipton and Gardner know you support the bill!

People across western Colorado cheered as US Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) re-introduced the San Juan Wilderness Act on April 19. This bill is the result of years of collaboration and local input and will provide better management and protections for lands in San Miguel, Ouray, and San Juan counties in southwestern Colorado. The legislation would secure protections for nearly 60,000 acres in the heart of the San Juan Mountains.

The San Juan Mountains Wilderness Act is long overdue.
Call Sen. Bennet and thank him for his efforts.
Then call Sen. Gardner & Rep. Tipton & ask them to support this bill!

• US Sen. Michael Bennet (Durango office): (970) 259-1710
• US Sen. Cory Gardner (Grand Junction office): (970) 245-9553
• US Rep. Scott Tipton (Grand Junction office): (970) 241-2499

Half of the acreage would expand or create wilderness for Sneffels Range and Lizard Head. The other half would ensure management protections for Ice Lake Basin, Hope Lake and Naturita Canyon. These are all beloved parts of the Western Slope that WCC members have been working for almost a decade to protect.

The bill was carefully crafted with input regarding private property, water rights, mountain biking, snowmobiling, commercial heli-skiing, and other established uses. Supported by all three counties where the lands are and the municipalities of Telluride, Mountain Village, Ouray, Ridgway and Silverton; local ranchers and outfitters, and over 120 local businesses, it is hopeful the bill will move forward to a full Senate vote and that similar legislation will be introduced in the House.

WCC and our allies across western Colorado will continue our work to make this bill law, but we can’t do it without your support. Help us bring the San Juan Wilderness bill over the finish line and make a donation today.