President Obama Just Declared Browns Canyon, Colorado As A National Monument

Grab your paddle, hiking boots, and sunscreen. Here's 10 reasons that this is a huge deal.

1. President Obama used the Antiquities Act

The Antiquities Act was passed in 1906 under the leadership of President (and legendarily strong-willed conservationist) Theodore Roosevelt. It's only four paragraphs long but has been used to protect millions of acres of pristine

American land.

2. As a National Monument, Browns Canyon shares good Colorado company

There are 7 other national monuments in Colorado: Canyon of the Ancients, Chimney Rock, Monument Canyon, Dinosaur National Monument, the Florrissant Fossil Beds, Hovenweep, and the Yucca house.

3. 96 percent of people across Colorado support protecting natural areas like Browns Canyon

Via 9news.com

96 percent agreement is the kind of number you only get when you're electing dictators or polling Colorado about whether we love our state's natural treasures.

4. Browns Canyon has incredibly diverse wildlife

Looking for wildlife? Browns Canyon has got it. Black bears, bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, mountain lions, eagles, and falcons--to name a few. Designating Browns Canyon as a national monument is a huge step towards protecting these precious American species.

5. Browns Canyon rocks

Thinkprogress.org

Geology puns aside, Browns Canyon boasts one of a kind granite formations, colorful rock outcroppings, and of course, mountain vistas.

6. Browns Canyon isn't just for paddlers

Even midwinter, when Colorado's peaks are still capped in snow, Browns Canyon's Arkansas River water can be significantly warmer than other rivers, making it a destination for fly fishing devotees around the world.

7. But don't forget the paddlers

With Class III and IV rapids, Browns Canyon offers rafting, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities for beginners and more experienced paddlers alike.

8. Or the hikers

Conservation Colorado

From Ruby Mountain at its north end to Hecla Junction in the south, Browns Canyon is a natural wonder whose trails are open year round.

9. Or the runners

Browns Canyon is easily accessible and with its designation as a national monument, Browns Canyon will be safe for generations.

10. Browns Canyon is proof that we have the power to protect our nation's natural treasures

vimeo.com

Protecting Browns Canyon has been at the heart of my work on the Colorado Wilderness Act since 1999. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of everyone who cares about the future of Browns Canyon, today we know that this special place will be safe for generations. While there are still many other places we must work to protect, today we know that our work is paying off.