By Heather Willard | Fox 31 News
After visiting the communities surrounding Dolores Canyons over the past few months, U.S. Sens. John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet released a joint statement on the path forward to protecting the federal lands, citing several principles they intend to follow.
“For decades, Coloradans have worked to find a sensible way to protect the Dolores River,” the pair of senators said, noting the years of conversations with residents of the area about whether the Northern Dolores Canyons region should become a National Monument.
“Based on these conversations, it is clear that Coloradans care deeply about this landscape and many want it permanently protected. We also recognize there are legitimate questions and the need for further discussion,” the statement continued. “We are committed to continuing to work with local leaders, public land users, affected counties, and Tribes to determine the best path.”