Sen. Mark Udall has started a process to make sure that this area remains a scenic treasure for all of us to enjoy. He’s asking for our input on how to best protect Browns Canyon. One path he is considering would make Browns Canyon a national monument — literally putting our community on the map and welcoming people who will come to hike, raft, fish and just take in the amazing views.

Given a recent study that showed Colorado’s federally protected lands, including monuments, are driving economic growth, protecting Browns Canyon would be good for business, good for Salida and good for our future.

Tom Pokorny, Salida