Posted for Nancy Yearout
RE/MAX Properties of the Summit, Breckenridge, Colorado
nyearout@colorado.net
http://www.realestate-breckenridge.net
#Breckenridge, Colorado
Colorado Sen. Mark Udall has released a detailed legislative proposal to
establish Browns Canyon National Monument and Wilderness Area. The latest step
in a yearlong public-engagement process, Udall's proposal reflects feedback from
dozens of stakeholders, including business owners, sportsmen, elected officials
and recreational groups.
“My business livelihood and quality of life both
depend on the protection of Browns Canyon,” said Christian Campton, owner of
KODI Rafting in Frisco. “I personally appreciate Sen. Udall's efforts to ensure
the national monument will continue to allow rafting, fishing, hunting and other
economic drivers while helping us attract new visitors to experience what makes
this area so unique.”
Protection of places like Browns Canyon as a
national monument positively affects the economic health of river outfitters,
local businesses and the surrounding communities, said Ryan Bidwell of The
Wilderness Society in a statement praising Udall's actions.
“Browns
Canyon is a national treasure which deserves permanent protection to ensure the
outdoor legacy, recreational opportunities and the local economic growth for the
future,” Bidwell said. “We applaud Sen. Udall for responding to public comments
and crafting a balanced proposal that will allow economically important
recreation to continue, while ensuring the area is protected for future
generations.”
Udall's proposal would protect approximately 22,000 acres
along the iconic Arkansas River between Salida and Buena Vista. Browns Canyon is
one of the most popular whitewater rafting destinations in the nation. The
regional whitewater sports industry, which includes rafting, kayaking and other
activities, accounted for more than $20 million in direct expenditures for a
total economic impact of more than $52 million in the Arkansas Valley in 2012.
Courtesy of the Summit Daily News
