By Dave Richins | Roll Call
Whatever the next Congress brings us, let’s hope it brings a fresh perspective on how to balance the management of our public lands, and a renewed push to actually get things done. The 113th Congress has had one of the worst records in history when it comes to protecting unique landscapes across the West, including stalling bills that would strengthen Arizona’s economy.
According to the National Park Service, visitors to Casa Grande Ruins National Monument and Saguaro National Park spent a combined $41.2 million in 2012, supporting 579 local jobs. Modest and popular proposals to expand these parks have been stalled in Congress for over a year, and for no good reason.
But there are many good reasons to celebrate America’s public lands. They support a diverse economy here in the West, serving many purposes simultaneously. Vast watersheds capture the rain and snowmelt that western farms, ranches and cities need. Mining and energy development provide economic opportunity for rural communities desperate for jobs. Protected open spaces provide wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation opportunities that anchor a quality of life drawing people to the region in droves. This multiplicity of uses is at the core of a deep, fundamental and sustaining economic shift that has been occurring across the West for some time.
