U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet to visit Dolores River

‘The Dolores River is more than just a landmark – it's the lifeblood of their communities and way of life,’ Bennet says
Dolores River Canyon Wilderness Study Area.

Colorado U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet will take a three-day trip to explore the Dolores River with fellow Coloradans this weekend, a news release said Friday.

County commissioners, Tribal members, ranchers, and more will come together to learn about the challenges and opportunities communities around the river face.

“We need to protect the river to provide long-term certainty for our state and for future generations,” Bennet said. “I look forward to hearing from Coloradans who live, work, and depend on the Dolores River during my trip, and to taking in the world-renowned beauty of this majestic river.”

Bennet reintroduced the Dolores River National Conservation Area and Special Management Area Act in March. This bill would “protect over 68,000 acres of public lands in Southwest Colorado,” the news release said.

The bill has received support from the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, as well as Montezuma, Dolores, La Plata, San Miguel, and Archuleta counties. Several towns and regional conservation groups also support this bill.