For immediate release: March 11, 2009
Contact: Eric Wortman
(202)-225-4761
Edward Stern
(202)-536-6190
(202)-225-4761
Edward Stern
(202)-536-6190
Congressman Salazar fights to secure $1,250,000 in funding for Ophir Valley Preservation Project
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman John Salazar has continued his fight to secure $1,250,000 of federal funding toward the purchase of old mining claims near the town of Ophir. For years, local residents have worked to protect critical wildlife habitat, maintain recreational access on public lands, protect water quality, and help maintain the quality of life in the Ophir Valley. The owner of the property, the Pauls family, has worked with the Trust for Public land, local elected officials, Congressman Salazar and other members of the Colorado Congressional Delegation to make this project come together. Congressman Salazar fought for the inclusion of the funding in the omnibus appropriations bill which has passed the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate and now goes to President Obama for his signature.
Congressman Salazar offered the following statement on the project:
“This funding will help insure that valuable open space in the Ophir Valley is preserved and protected for future generations of Coloradoans and visitors to the area,” said Congressman Salazar. “Having been to this area myself I know that this spectacular alpine valley is very worthy of conservation. This funding is a critical step for this project.”
San Miguel County Commissioner Joan May offered the following statement on the funding:
San Miguel County Commissioner Joan May offered the following statement on the funding:
“This is long-awaited great news. Funding the preservation of the Ophir land is a win-win situation, “said Commissioner May. “Congressman Salazar should be applauded once again for his dedication to preserving critically important lands in Colorado.”
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