Congressman Salazar Introduces Sangro de Cristo Heritage Bill

Congressman Salazar released the following statement after introducing legislation to designate the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area.

“The Valley is the crossroads of many cultures and has been home to generations of Spanish, Anglo, and Native American people. This designation will help preserve the unique history of the area and is a way for the community to appreciate its own heritage.

“Tourism already makes up 9% of the basic income in Alamosa, Conejos, and Costilla counties. A National Heritage designation will encourage more visitors to the entire Valley. The designation will also bring in real financial support to restore historic buildings and sites, develop learning programs and museum, and build regional trail systems.  All of this will translate into preservation and appreciation of our culture, while creating new jobs and economic growth opportunities for the local communities.

“The national heritage designation is keeping in the spirit of public-private partnership. I believe it will also be an opportunity for private landowners to contribute in the planning and demonstrate their own management best practices.

Congressman Salazar has worked with his brother Senator Ken Salazar to have the companion bill introduced in the Senate.

Some of the areas affected by the designation are:

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
3 National Wildlife Refuges: the Baca NWR, Monte Vista NWR, Alamosa NWR
1 National Forest: Rio Grande National Forest
2 National Forest Wilderness Areas: Sange De Cristo Wilderness, South San Juan Wilderness
1 Proposed National Natural Landmark: Rio Grande River
BLM Land: Blanca Wetlands Complex, Blanca Special Recreation Management Area, Rio Grande River Special Management Area