Colorado is known for its outdoor recreation and its pristine air and water. In light of the recent Gold King Mine spill in the Animas River, Durango especially should be pushing for regulations to protect the air quality since the water quality has been compromised for some time. Let’s not wait to reduce our carbon emissions until health concerns become apparent; let’s lead the way towards an energy efficient America.

The discussion over accepting the Clean Power Plan in Colorado should not be about which political party someone identifies with; it should be about what our community values about the environment in which we reside. The Clean Power Plan should be seen as a stepping stone to many more advancements in the use of renewable energy in the great Southwest. For the well-being of the state of Colorado and every one of its residents, I hope this is only the beginning of the story towards a clean(er) future for our upcoming generations to enjoy.

Amaya McKenna

Durango