Congressman Salazar Asks EPA to Step Up Involvement on Wolf Creek

Washington, DC – Congressman Salazar released the following letter calling on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to become a full cooperating agency for the Wolf Creek Access Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

October 14, 2008

Carol Rushin
Acting Regional Administrator Region 8
Environmental Protection Agency
1595 Wynkoop St.
Denver, CO 80202-1129

Dear Ms. Rushin:

I understand you have been asked to participate as a Cooperating Agency by the Rio Grande National Forest as they begin the formal scoping process for the Wolf Creek Access Environmental Impact Statement, or EIS. As this process begins once again under different agency leadership, I ask that you agree to participate as a full Cooperating Agency as defined by 40 CFR 1501.6 and 1508.5, to ensure that the direct, indirect and connected impacts of the proposed development on wetlands at the Rio Grande headwaters are thoroughly understood. It is my understanding that the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the Army Corps of Engineers and the Colorado Department of Transportation have already agreed to be full Cooperating Agencies.

As you know, the Village at Wolf Creek property is roughly 25% wetlands, including sensitive fen wetlands that play a crucial role in the health of this areas watershed. EPA scientists and regulatory staff have the most comprehensive understanding of these rare wetland systems, and are best qualified to contribute to a complete and comprehensive analysis. The Forest Service is charged with providing access to the private property that is sufficient for "reasonable use and enjoyment" of the private in-holding. Determining whether direct, indirect and connected wetland impacts are likely to result from the proposed development - and what steps can be taken to avoid these impacts - is vitally important to informing the Forest Service’s decision. This level of detailed analysis could best be accomplished through the EPA's complete involvement in the EIS process as a Cooperating Agency.

I have monitored the potential impacts of the Village at Wolf Creek proposal on the Rio Grande headwaters closely during my tenure as the Congressman for Colorado’s Third Congressional District. As this formal scoping process begins anew, under different agency leadership, I look forward to witnessing the EPA’s formal participation as a Cooperating Agency to ensure that the full scope of direct, indirect and connected impacts on these wetlands and the watershed that downstream communities depend on are thoroughly evaluated before access is considered.

Thank you very much for your consideration. Please keep my Alamosa and Durango offices informed of any decisions on this matter.

Sincerely,
/jts
John T. Salazar
Member of Congress
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