DeGette Statement on the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act

Denver – Today, U.S. Rep DeGette issued the following statement on the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Wilderness Act, the landmark law that has conserved and protected 110 million acres of wilderness areas:

"Today we celebrate the National Wilderness Preservation System, which has transformed our relationship with wild lands and special places across the nation. In Colorado, our treasured lands are among our greatest resources, are central to our lifestyle, and are essential to the economy. These lands not only provide vital wildlife habitats and clean air and water; they also support tourism as our state's number one economic engine.

"It is critical that we build on the success of the Wilderness Act and continue to protect additional wild areas for future generations. That is why I continue to sponsor the Colorado Wilderness Act, which would protect remaining wild areas in our state. During this time, I have sought and integrated input from communities across Colorado and will continue to do so until this legislation becomes law. We all know the importance of protecting these special places and preserving our heritage."

More information on the Colorado Wilderness Act is available here.

The full text of the Colorado Wilderness Act is available here.