I just returned from Washington, D.C., speaking to Senator Cory Gardner’s staff. I told them that as a business owner in Central Colorado, I depend upon Colorado’s incredible natural resources such as the Continental Divide Trail to attract my customers.
They said that sen. Gardner is a champion of our public lands, supporting reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund. LWCF has funded our public lands like Gunnison National Forest and Great Sand Dunes National Park. But sections of the Continental Divide Trail need LWCF’s support. Hikers and horseback riders sometimes walk on highways. Without LWCF, this 3,100 mile National Scenic Trail may never be completed.
My business relies on hikers and riders, so I was pleased to hear Gardner championing LWCF at a bipartisan press conference that same week: “Colorado’s beautiful public lands rely on the LWCF and Congress needs to ensure it remains in place for years to come.” Then, stunningly, Gardner voted to slash millions of dollars from the program.
Congress must act soon to save LWCF. If we lose, a precious resource for public lands could be gone forever. The only way that Gardner can help is to listen to local, small business leaders – and then show us his leadership by not only talking a good game, but making the good votes.
Coloradans need a leader with consistent stances. Please urge him to support our communities, our businesses and the LWCF.
Melanie Garr
Salida
