Pew Commends President Biden's Moves to Protect Public Lands in Colorado

WASHINGTON—The Pew Charitable Trusts today praised President Joe Biden for using his presidential authority under the Antiquities Act to designate the Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument, which lies in the heart of Colorado’s ski country. During World War II, the area was the site of a camp where soldiers were trained in winter warfare skills and tactics; after the war, some servicemen returned to the area to help create the state’s world-renowned ski industry.

The Biden administration also committed to preserving other public lands in Colorado, including a 20-year mineral withdrawal for the Thompson Divide.

Marcia Argust, director of Pew’s U.S. public lands and rivers conservation program, issued this statement: 

“We commend the administration for designating the Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument—and announcing future protections for the Thompson Divide. Widely supported by veterans, Colorado residents, and local businesses, these actions are necessary to safeguard areas of significant historic, cultural, and ecological values within existing public landscapes.

“For over a decade, Coloradans have been working to protect these public lands. President Biden’s actions will honor the World War II veterans of the 10th Mountain Division, conserve critical wildlife habitat, grow the outdoor recreation economy that supports local communities, and help mitigate the impacts of climate change.

“Today marks the first time that President Biden has established a new national monument. Pew looks forward to additional proclamations to conserve more places that honor America’s diverse history and voices, such as Castner Range in Texas and Avi Kwa Ame in Nevada.”

The new national monument includes lands proposed for protections in legislation sponsored by three members of Congress from Colorado: Senators Michael Bennet (D) and John Hickenlooper (D) and Representative Joe Neguse (D).

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