DeGette Lauds Key Colorado Wilderness Act Areas Inclusion in BLM Recommendations for Protection

"The four wilderness study areas from the Colorado Wilderness Act identified by the BLM today for Congressionally-designated protection are:

• McKenna Peak
• Castle Peak
• Browns Canyon
• Bull Gulch

Representing a remarkable ecological transition from the alpine source of the Colorado River to desert canyon country, Bull Gulch contains a labyrinth of twisting corridors and sculpted bowls carved through the maroon sandstone.

DeGette's Colorado Wilderness Act of 2011 sets forth a balanced approach to protecting some of the last remaining wild places in Colorado. The bill contains 28 proposed wilderness areas, as well as three smaller additions to existing wilderness areas, and in total would permanently protect nearly 700,000 acres of precious land.

"Over the past 12 years, as I've worked on the Colorado Wilderness Act with citizens across the state, I've heard many different opinions, but those opinions are most often rooted in a set of shared statewide values. Coloradoans want to preserve their history, their quality of life and their opportunities.

"I am thrilled that today we mark an important milestone for some of these precious lands, and I remain committed to working with the Administration and my colleagues in Colorado until all the acres of precious land in The Act are protected for future generations."

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