With all due respect, neither Rep. Scott Tipton nor Sen. Cory Gardner represents the great state of Colorado.
Numerous concerns are posed by them, but the most critical are the proposed National Monument Creation and Protection Act (HR 3990), and misuse of the federal budget process to open leasing in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
Concerning national monuments, both Tipton and Gardner have diplomatically shown support of our public lands, but they don’t step up to the plate when it matters most. HR 3990 would devastate the 1906 Antiquities Act signed by President Theodore Roosevelt, undermining the conservation legacy of our country and its history.
The Antiquities Act has guaranteed the preservation of national parks and monuments for the present and future public. Congressman Tipton’s remarks to the House Natural Resources Committee state it clearly: “The Coloradans I represent value our National Monuments, from their breathtaking beauty to the positive economic impact they have on our communities.”
So, how in good conscience could Tipton have voted for HR 3990?
Leasing of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge via the federal budget process is a very duplicitous way to open up this ecologically fragile and significant area. Until renewable energy is our main source, we need to develop non-renewable resources conscientiously in the lower 48 states, including Colorado.
Leasing the ANWR’s minimal reserves with the current oil glut will not bring the predicted revenue or salvage the federal budget. Representatives, please take a hard look at recent federal lease sales and do the math!
Ilyse K. Gold
Hesperus
