As a resident of Costilla County, CO, and/or a citizen of the State of Colorado, and/ or a citizen of the United States, am deeply concerned about the detrimental impact caused by the installation of an 8-foot fence with a 3-inch grid along the perimeter of the 83,000 acre mountain known as La Sierra in Costilla County, Colorado. This property is owned by William Bruce Harrison of Houston, Texas. This fence is not only causing the loss of small animal habitat but also endangering various wildlife species such as beavers, badgers, rocky mountain sheep, antelope, lynx, baby lynx, wild turkeys, grouse,  bobcats, bears, elk and elk calves, deer and fawns, mountain lions and many more.

The current fence design poses a significant threat to these animals as they may become trapped on the wrong side without access to crucial resources like creeks or riparian areas. This obstruction disrupts their natural migratory paths and restricts their ability to find food and water sources necessary for survival. The fence and its construction has damaged natural habitats including those of the of endangered black-footed ferret, the sage grouse and the southwest willow fly catcher.
It is essential to recognize that our community cherishes our beautiful mountains and diverse wildlife. We understand that maintaining a harmonious balance between human activities and nature is crucial for both ecological integrity and our own well-being. Therefore we urge immediate action to rectify this situation before irreparable damage occurs.

Not only does this destructive fence pose risks to wildlife populations but it also threatens our watershed system. By blocking access to creeks and riparian areas where these animals rely on for hydration and sustenance during their migrations or daily routines; this barrier disrupts the delicate balance of our local ecosystem.

Furthermore, this fence has been damaging traditional acequias, damaged watersheds , damaged adjoining private property and created the potential for severe erosion by using heavy equipment to clear and remove the existing natural enviornment throughout a 10 to 20 foot path for the fence that will span the entire perimeter of La Sierra. The traditional acequia irrigation system is vital for supporting agriculture in Costilla County. Our farming community heavily relies on these irrigation systems for crop production which sustains local economies while providing fresh produce for consumers across the region.

We cannot afford to overlook these critical issues any longer! It is imperative that we take immediate action by demanding an end to this destructive fencing project before irreversible harm befalls both wildlife populations and our precious watershed system.

We call upon the responsible authorities, including State of Colorado Governor Jared Polis; US Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper; US Rep Laren Boebert; State Senator Cleave Simpson; State Rep. Mathew Martinez; 

local, state and federal government officials and relevant agencies, to thoroughly reassess the impact of this fence on our environment and take necessary steps to mitigate its adverse effects. We urge you to consider alternative solutions that prioritize wildlife conservation, maintain migratory paths, protect our watershed, and protect our acequias

Together, we can make a difference! Let us stand united in protecting our community's natural heritage by signing this petition. Join us in urging the immediate cessation of this destructive fence installation project and advocating for a more sustainable approach that respects both nature and human livelihoods.

Sign now to safeguard wildlife, preserve our watershed system, and ensure a thriving future for Costilla County!

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