Congressman Salazar announces legislation to protect Hermosa Creek, Perins Peak and Animas City Mountain

Salazar to draft bills to protect land and water in Southwestern Colorado

WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today in Durango, Congressman Salazar met with local elected officials and the Hermosa Creek Work Group to announce his intent to draft legislation to protect Hermosa Creek, Perins Peak, and Animas City Mountain.   

John made the following remarks at this afternoon’s meeting:

“I want to thank everyone here for their hard work and efforts to reach an agreement on protecting these important natural resources.  This legislation will protect the entire Hermosa Creek watershed, and create 50,000 acres of new wilderness while respecting the existing uses of the area.  I will also work to introduce legislation to forever protect Animas City Mountain and Perins Peak from development.  

Now I am not opposed to drilling or production of gas, we all know that the San Juan Basin in this county is an important natural resource.  But as with all things there needs to be a balance between protection of our environment and production of the resources.  These areas contain land important to sportsmen, bikers, ranchers, and wildlife, and the watershed for Durango.  They deserve protection.  I have heard from the community and I will continue to work with you to draft legislation that reflects your priorities.”

Patt Dorsey, Area Wildlife Manager for the Colorado Division of Wildlife had this to say of John’s announcement:

“Perins Peak and Animas City Mountain are so close to the City of Durango, yet they provide critical habitat for wintering elk and a year-round home for many other kinds of wildlife. The local community would like to see these areas protected. Like them, we are grateful that Congressman Salazar intends to introduce this legislation.”