In Washington, Michael is a strong advocate for protecting Colorado’s historic and cultural sites, and remains committed to preserving and protecting the places that make our state unique.
DENVER — Ten years ago this month, President Obama designated Chimney Rock as a national monument. As Colorado’s US Senator, Michael Bennet played an important role in protecting this stunning, 4,700-acre archeological site within the San Juan National Forest.
“From Chimney Rock, to Brown’s Canyon, to the recently created Amache National Historic Site, Michael has demonstrated his commitment to protecting Colorado’s public lands and historic sites,” explains Bennet for Colorado spokesperson Georgina Beven. “It’s imperative that we protect these special places for future generations to enjoy, and reelecting Michael this November will ensure Colorado has someone in the US Senate who will fight to protect our way of life.”
Michael’s bill to establish Chimney Rock as a national monument was one of the earliest pieces of legislation that he introduced in the Senate. It was the culmination of years of hard work by Coloradans — including conservation groups, counties, municipalities, and Tribes — who recognized the site’s extraordinary cultural, historical, and archeological significance. As a national monument, Chimney Rock enjoys much deserved protections, and brings additional visitors to the site that have bolstered the local economy.
“Chimney Rock is a stunning reminder of Southwest Colorado’s Archeological history. Seen from the highway, it is a spire, reaching toward the sky. But, once on top, it is a fascinating slice of the past that can take your breath away,” said Colorado State Representative Barbara McLachlan, whose district includes Chimney Rock National Monument. “My constituents are better off because of Senator Bennet’s commitment to protecting this treasure in our midst.”
Michael is running for re-election this year so that he can continue his work protecting Colorado’s public lands, including his current efforts to pass the CORE Act and designate Camp Hale as a national monument.
