Governor John Hickenlooper gets it – that public lands are engines for our local economy and that the move to seize them for local control is short-sighted and would cause us to lose access to our greatest asset (Journal, July 26).
We know this first hand in Montezuma County. Mesa Verde National Park draws visitors from around the world, and newer outdoor recreation opportunities like Phil’s World bring in a different segment of visitors who also contribute to our economy.
Commissioner James Lambert is unfortunately trapped in an outmoded mindset that seeks control over our public lands on the incorrect belief that we can simply drill, mine and log our way to prosperity.
This is a fantasy, and at odds with the emerging economy reality that values outdoor recreation, work and play balance and access to the outdoors.
We need leaders who can make this distinction and realize the critical role that conservation of public lands plays. We need leaders who can help diversify our economy, and make Montezuma County continue to be a desirable place to live and a more attractive place to do business.
This includes critical infrastructure such as broadband internet, quality education, access to open spaces and recreation.
Times change and our leaders need to be bold and create a sustainable vision for the future.
Jeremy Christensen
Mancos
