From Colorado News Connection

December 30, 2009

by Chris Thomas

DENVER – It might have been a terrible year for the nation’s economy, but 2009 was a terrific year for the environment, according to a checklist by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) that shows plenty of Colorado connections.

Adam Kolton, senior director of congressional and federal affairs with NWF, helped put the list together. He says the success stories this year include the Omnibus Wilderness Act, which designated new federal wilderness in the Grand Junction area and near Rocky Mountain National Park. Another item is the additional money federal agencies have to maintain that land, thanks to an increase of almost $5 billion in the Interior Department budget over the prior year, he adds.

“It begins to make right many of the cuts and challenges these areas faced. It was good news, and it’s good news for every wildlife refuge, park and wilderness area.”

Also on the NWF checklist of environmental achievements are President Obama’s recent trip to the international climate conference in Copenhagen and the Administration’s moves to strengthen the Clean Air Act.

The U.S. House passage of the American Clean Energy and Security Act made the list, too. Although it has been controversial with oil and gas developers in states like Colorado and hasn’t yet passed in the Senate, Kolton expects the clean energy momentum to continue.

“We can feel good knowing that we’re, at least, finally moving in the right direction to end that addiction on oil and jumpstart this clean energy economy we’re so desperate for.”

The “Cash for Clunkers” program also is listed. Almost 8,500 Coloradans ditched their gas-guzzlers and received cash rebates from the government. Kolton says it has benefitted both the economy and the environment.

“The consumers made the right choices on their own, to trade in older clunkers for very fuel efficient vehicles. That was a huge milestone.”

“Accomplishments for 2009: Changing the Forecast for Wildlife” is available online at www.nwf.org.

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