To commemorate Earth Day, U.S. Rep. Jared Polis (D-CO) introduced of the Eagle and Summit County Wilderness Preservation Act, which will conserve areas throughout Colorado’s Central Mountains. Polis was joined at the State Capitol this afternoon by outdoorsman/author Aron Ralston, who was portrayed by James Franco in the film “127 Hours,” nature photographer John Fielder, Vail Town Council Member Kerry Donovan, GoLite outdoor apparel co-founder Kim Coupounas, and Elise Jones, executive director of the Colorado Environmental Coalition.


“These wild landscapes are what make Colorado the special place that we love,” said Polis. “Preserving our natural resources strengthens the economic resources that support Colorado jobs. We also ensure that generations of Coloradans can enjoy these special places for fun, adventure or just enjoying the peace of the outdoors. That’s why this bill, which is the product of months of consensus building, enjoys such broad support.”


“I've adventured in more than three-quarters of the lands included in Congressman Polis' bill over the past six years,” Ralston said. “Their beauty, wildlife, and opportunities for quiet recreation and solitude surpass much of our state's existing wilderness. It is time to preserve our last pristine places in Eagle and Summit County.”


“Only five percent of Colorado's 66 million acres is legally designated wilderness,” said Fielder. “It's simply not enough for a state whose economy is so dependent upon the integrity of its ecology. Wilderness protection makes people healthy, wealthy, and happy from an economy that is sustained by clean air and water, parks and trails, cobalt blue skies, and wilderness.”


“My family has a strong history with Wilderness,” Donovan added. “From my grandfather shaping and defining Wilderness boundaries because of his beliefs in the power of meeting nature on its own terms, to my parents introducing sustainability and recycling – it is this legacy that inspires me to be a part of this legislation. To add these proposed parcels to the existing Wilderness completes a project started a life time ago.”


“GoLite is proud to be part of the active outdoor recreation economy that contributes over $10 billion annually to Colorado’s economy and supports over 107,000 jobs across the state,” stated Coupounas. “GoLite is also a keen supporter of the Eagle and Summit County Wilderness Preservation Act. Colorado is a state where economic development and environmental preservation are not only complementary, but inextricably linked.”


“From hunters and anglers, to hikers and skiers, to gear shop owners and outfitters, Coloradans of all walks of life cherish our state’s scenic, wildlife-filled wilderness – and recognize the importance of safeguarding additional areas as our state grows,” said Jones. “We applaud Congressman Polis for his leadership in working to permanently protect more of Colorado’s wilderness treasures for current and future generations.”


The legislation is the result of an intense process of stakeholder collaboration and public outreach that will continue to inform and shape the bill as it moves through Congress.


Endorsements


“Congressman Polis has put together a wilderness proposal that reflects the consensus of many people across Summit and Eagle Counties. This bill will give the strongest possible protection to our remaining intact ecosystems, wildlife habitat and migration corridors. It is a great step forward in securing Colorado’s natural legacy.” – Karn Stiegelmeier, Summit County Commissioner

“We’re in the tourism business and people come to the mountains to experience the natural beauty of Colorado, so it only makes sense that we preserve the scenic, wild areas near Vail for posterity. Polis’ bill captures what we hope to achieve to protect our community’s best interest.” – Andy Daly, Vail Town Council Member; Former President, Vail Resorts


“The process has been very positive, with Congressman Polis bringing together wilderness advocates, mountain bikers and many others. It is important, too, that the wildfire council was involved to ensure good watershed protection and wildfire mitigation.” – Dr. John Warner, Mayor, Breckenridge


“I am all for Congressman’s Polis bill. Wilderness designation ensures clean air, clear streams and abundant wildlife — that’s what Colorado’s outdoor economy is built on. Congressman Polis’ wilderness bill is a step in the right direction for Colorado’s beautiful places and the many small businesses that depend on them.” – Greg Abernathy, Owner, Lonestar Sports, Breckenridge


“Our forest backcountry needs defenders, and Congressman Polis has stepped up as a champion.  This bill will protect the White River’s clean air, water and wildlife and keep Colorado a beautiful place to live.” – Pam Kiely, Program Director, Environment Colorado