“In 1997 South Park was designated by the Governor of Colorado as a State Heritage Area, recognizing its unique status,” Rep. Lamborn said. “This area is historically and culturally important not just to Coloradans, but to all Americans. Visitors to the area can experience unparalleled natural beauty and have a glimpse into the lives of native peoples, early explorers, settlers, and ranchers, all of whom played vital roles in our nation’s heritage. Designating South Park as a National Heritage Area will provide national status while protecting area property owners and ensuring that it remains under local control.”

The National Park Service will provide technical support and the Park County Tourism and Community Development Office and the South Park National Heritage Area Board of Directors will be charged with administration of the area.

“Senator Ken Salazar, who introduced a companion bill in the Senate, has been working towards establishing the South Park National Heritage Area since the last Congress. I look forward to working with him and the rest of the Colorado delegation to see that this designation becomes a reality,” Rep. Lamborn stated.

The greater South Park Area, which is the largest and highest grassland basin of its type in the United States, averages 9,000 feet in elevation, and is fifty miles long and thirty-five miles wide. Home to the highest rare plant communities on the North American continent, the basin includes portions of two National Forest wilderness areas, Lost Creek and Buffalo Peaks, that both support natural resources of national importance.

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