The Denver Post editorial captures well the diverse constellation of voices that are increasingly being raised against the too-much-too-fast oil and gas leasing program on federal lands which the Bureau of Land Management administers.

Not only is Center for Native Ecosystems represented, but a spokesperson for the Colorado Division of Wildlife is also quoted about the state agency's "serious concerns" with the oil and gas leases being offered.  In addition, the mayor of Granby highlights local worries about increased traffic congestion from oil and gas drilling activity in the area.  Even U.S. Representative Mark Udall (D-CO) has asked the BLM to postpone leasing in the area, the Post editorial notes.

For our part, Center for Native Ecosystems was able to highlight the large number of leases being offered in sage grouse "core areas," those places identified by the Colorado Division of Wildlife as most important for greater sage grouse survival.  "From a biological perspective, it is not appropriate to lease in those areas," we offered.

The Post ended its editorial by rightly pointing out that postponing oil and gas leasing in Grand County until the BLM finishes its new management plan for the area would "give local residents and other parties an opportunity to comment on how the land has been used — whether it is recreation or conservation — and be heard on how it may best be used in the future."

Let's hope the BLM hears this message coming from so many different sources.