A recent letter (Herald, Mar. 23)) overlooks the broader benefits of Rep. Hurd’s Productive Public Lands Act. Far from serving “big business,” this bill ensures our federal lands serve all Americans – especially those whose livelihoods depend on responsible energy development.
Oil and gas production on public lands supports thousands of local jobs, generates millions in tax revenue and keeps energy prices affordable. These revenues fund critical services like schools and infrastructure in Colorado communities.
Importantly, today’s energy development is not the environmental threat it once was. Thanks to advanced technology and strict federal regulations, oil and gas operations have significantly reduced their impact on wildlife, water and air quality. Habitat protections, reclamation plans and emission controls are standard, not optional.
The claim that this bill ignores local voices is misleading. In many cases, federal land plans have leaned heavily on pressure from national environmental groups – often at odds with the interests of rural communities, ranchers and workers on the ground. Hurd’s bill restores balanced, multiuse access to public lands, as originally envisioned under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act.
While renewable energy is part of our future, it cannot yet meet the scale or reliability required to power our nation. Oil and gas remain critical to energy security and a stable transition.
Colorado’s public lands are for everyone, including those who work in them, protect them, and power our economy through them.
Michelina Paulek, Executive Director, The Energy Council
Durango
