We, the citizens of Routt and Moffat County and all of us who treasure Routt National Forest, call on the US Forest Service to halt the Rainbow Family Gathering planned to occur in the Adams Park area of Routt National Forest in July of 2022.

This massive unpermitted gathering represents a serious risk to the environment, wildlife, and the forest itself, particularly fire risk. It is also a law enforcement and public health issue. It is unconscionable to allow an assembly of anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 people or more, along with their unleashed dogs, into this sensitive wildlife area where elk are currently giving birth to their calves. This is part of the Bear’s Ear elk herd, the second largest elk herd in Colorado. Adams Park is home to numerous other sensitive species.

A Forest Service report from the previous event in Routt County in 2006 can be read online at SteamboatPilot.com/news/rainbow-gathering-update/. Among other things, the report details fire hazards, water and riparian issues, inadequate human and dog waste disposal, soil erosion and compaction, wildlife displacement, parking problems with 4,000 to 6,000 vehicles, tree-cutting, impacts of domestic dogs on wildlife, and violence against law enforcement officers.

An analysis of a similar Rainbow Family gathering estimated that the event of 10,000 left behind 23 tons of human feces, 1.8 tons of dog feces, one half ton of soiled toilet paper, and 22,000 gallons of human urine onto the forest floor and their trench latrines. This will increase proportionally with the number attending. Link here: https://bit.ly/3tJu33K  If it rains, this becomes a toxic slurry. If it doesn’t, the entire event is a fire hazard.

We love our forest, and the wildlife who call it home. This event is unauthorized and sets a terrible precedent. We call upon the US Forest Service to do their duty and protect our public lands and Colorado wildlife.

Stop this unauthorized event.