DeGette Statement on Announcement that President Will Protect Browns Canyon

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (CO-01) issued the following statement after the announcement that President Obama will use the Antiquities Act to name Browns Canyon a new National Monument. Rep. DeGette has worked with local partners since 1999 who asked for her assistance to protect the area. She introduced legislation that would protect Browns Canyon as a wilderness area as part of her Colorado Wilderness Act:

"I am so pleased to see that the President recognizes the special qualities of Browns Canyon and the need to preserve this extraordinary area. He heard loud and clear the voices of the local community calling for protection. That is also why so many of us have included Browns Canyon in legislation to offer a permanent response. It has been a part of my bill, the Colorado Wilderness Act, since I first introduced it in 1999. I'm also pleased to hear that existing uses such as water rights and grazing will be protected and will continue as before the designation. The local economy will benefit, recreationists will benefit and wildlife will benefit."

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