Colorado seniors have a strong connection to public lands. They’re more than just pretty scenery—they’re where we hike, camp, fish, watch birds and spend time with family. They give us clean water, fresh air and a better quality of life. But these treasured landscapes face growing pressures, and seniors have a big stake in what happens next.

Public lands are where many of us go to recreate. Campgrounds, ski areas and trails for hiking, biking and birdwatching are often on public land. Drives for leaf peeping, wildflower viewing and wildlife watching depend on them, too. As Emerson wrote, “Earth laughs in wildflowers.” We all appreciate open spaces and seeing golden eagles soar above canyons and blue herons glide across rivers. 

Those experiences also contribute to our health and wellbeing. They bring family and friends together. Public lands also protect sources for drinking water, control erosion and help cleanse our air.

Public lands are an economic benefit to our communities as well. Seniors benefit from the younger families who move here to work in hospitals, clinics, stores, restaurants and local businesses—all drawn by the beauty and accessibility of nearby public lands.

Research shows that western counties with more protected lands perform better economically than those with fewer protections. In Colorado alone, BLM-managed lands generated $8.8 billion in 2023 and supported more than 39,000 jobs. Public lands also connect to broader issues like affordable housing, as the demand for workers in these areas continues to grow.

THREATS TO PUBLIC LANDS

Public lands are part of America’s history, established and protected through Congressional legislation, presidential proclamations and federal policies. Today, however, changes in laws, policies and budgets are reshaping how they are managed. New or proposed rules could open the door to more logging, mining and energy development, with fewer protections for wildlife and habitat and less access for recreation, hunting and fishing.

Budget cuts also mean fewer rangers and staff to balance competing uses, assist visitors, enforce conservation rules and conduct the science needed to protect species and landscapes. At the same time, growing threats like fires, drought, extreme weather and dwindling water supplies add new challenges. Selling public lands for short-term gain risks permanent loss—both of the lands themselves and of the public’s voice in how they are managed.

The major conservation laws passed in the lifetimes of today’s seniors—such as the Wilderness Act, the Endangered Species Act and the Roadless Area Conservation Rule—were all shaped by public support and advocacy. That same voice is needed now.

Public land facts worth noting:

• Nearly 300 bird species depend on U.S. public lands for survival. Birdwatching attracts 96 million Americans, 45% of whom are age 55+, contributing more than $100 billion to the economy.

• The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests protect over 20% of the Colorado River’s water supply, serving agriculture, communities, wildlife and ecosystems.

• Rare native plants are being surveyed on BLM and Forest Service lands. Identifying these species can lead to protections for plants and landscapes.

• Hunters and anglers rely heavily on public lands. In 2022, more than 6.6 million seniors 65+ went fishing, while 18% of big game hunters were 65+, representing 1.6 million hunters.

SENIORS LEAD THE WAY

Many seniors today were part of the national movements that secured protections for public lands. Landmark legislation and rule-making was passed during the baby boomer years, including the Wilderness Act (1964), the National Environmental Policy Act (1970), the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (1970), the Endangered Species Act (1973), the BLM’s land management framework (1976) and the Roadless Area Conservation Rule (2001).

Seniors have a clear interest in how public lands are managed now and in the years to come. These lands provide recreation, protect our health, ensure vibrant communities and protect wildlife and healthy landscapes. They are treasures that belong to all of us, and we all have a say in how they are managed.

HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT PUBLIC LANDS

• Recreate responsibly by following Leave No Trace principles

• Share your stories and experiences with family and friends

• Mentor others in outdoor skills and conservation values

• Volunteer for conservation projects or educational programs

• Speak up about what public lands mean to you—let federal, state and local leaders hear your voice

Sallie Thoreson is co-president of Black Canyon Audubon Society in Delta, Colorado. She can be reached at [email protected]. Visit BlackCanyonAudubon.org to learn more. 

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