La Plata County Commissioners Urge USDA to Protect Roadless Areas
URGENT UPDATE: La Plata County commissioners have just announced their formal opposition to the proposed repeal of the Roadless Area Conservation Rule. In a letter addressed to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, they emphasize that protecting public lands is a top priority for their community.
The commissioners, led by Commissioner Marsha Porter-Norton, argue that repealing this rule could jeopardize millions of acres of pristine wilderness across Western states. “It’s important to speak out in as many ways as we can to stand up for public lands,” Porter-Norton stated, highlighting the bipartisan support for this initiative in La Plata County.
This urgent matter comes on the heels of the Forest Service’s recent public comment period, which closed on September 19, 2023. During this time, over 600,000 comments were submitted, with a staggering 99.2% advocating for the preservation of roadless protections. Now, the Forest Service will review these comments and is expected to release a draft plan in the spring.
The Roadless Rule, originally enacted in 2001, has secured the protection of 4.2 million acres of National Forest land in Colorado alone, including 428,000 acres in the San Juan National Forest. The letter from La Plata County commissioners underscores the vital benefits these roadless areas provide, such as safeguarding clean drinking water and preserving wildlife habitats.
Road construction, they warn, could lead to increased erosion, sedimentation, and a heightened risk of human-caused wildfires. Additionally, the commissioners assert that development would threaten the economic resilience of communities that rely on outdoor recreation and tourism tied to unspoiled public lands.
In their letter, the commissioners stated, “Rescinding this safeguard would risk irreversible harm to our water, wildlife, economy, and cultural heritage.” The urgency of this message resonates deeply within the community, as residents express their commitment to maintaining the beauty and integrity of their natural surroundings.
As this developing story unfolds, the actions of La Plata County commissioners serve as a critical reminder of the importance of public land conservation. Residents and advocates alike are urged to stay engaged as the Forest Service prepares to take the next step in this pivotal decision-making process.
Stay tuned for more updates on this significant environmental issue as it continues to develop. The future of La Plata County’s public lands hangs in the balance, and community members are ready to rally in support of their cherished landscapes.
