Survey reveals 60% of community members oppose the Proposed Dolores Canyons National Monument
On April 30, 2024, the Board of Mesa County Commissioners and the public were briefed on a comprehensive and scientific opinion survey conducted by Magellan Strategies on April 24, 2024. Residents of Mesa, Montrose, and San Miguel counties weighed in on the future of the Dolores Canyons area, a region under consideration for national monument status. The survey, which includes responses from 1,272 residents, provides insight into the community's views on land management, conservation efforts, and the proposed national monument designation. While there is significant support for conserving public lands, with 72% in favor, a majority of 60% oppose the national monument designation, primarily due to concerns over increased restrictions, desire for local control, and potential negative impacts on the local economy and environment.
A significant portion of the survey focused on how public lands and open spaces should be managed. Only 20% believed public lands should be managed by the federal government. Additional findings revealed:
- 36% of respondents prefer county government oversight,
- 21% support state management,
- 23% offered various other opinions, reflecting a diverse range of viewpoints within the community.
When asked about conservation, a strong majority, 72%, expressed support for conserving public lands like Browns Canyon, Chimney Rock, and the Colorado National Monument. This indicates a broad appreciation for natural spaces, although 25% opposed increased conservation efforts, highlighting a segment of the community wary of potential restrictions.
The survey also explored how residents interact with the area. Activities such as hiking (71%), camping (66%), and fishing (48%) were popular among those who visit the Dolores River Canyon area, showcasing its importance as a recreational hub for locals.
The idea of designating the Dolores Canyons as a national monument has sparked complex views. About 37% of residents support the proposal, while 60% oppose it, often citing concerns over increased restrictions and a preference for local control over land management decisions. This opposition also stems from fears of negative environmental impacts and governmental overreach.
The economic implications of the monument designation were also a point of concern. While some residents believe it could boost local tourism and provide economic benefits, others have concerns that it could negatively affect local industries such as mining and change the character of the communities of Gateway, Nucla, and Naturita, as well as that of the surrounding areas.
The survey indicated that while there is a strong connection to the land, there's also significant uncertainty about the specifics of the national monument proposal and its implications for the local economy and access to recreational areas.
As the community and policymakers consider these findings, the survey highlights the need for continued dialogue and stakeholder engagement around the potential impacts of the proposed national monument designation.
The Dolores Canyons National Monument Opinion Survey offers a detailed snapshot of community sentiment. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to review the detailed findings to understand the issues and perspectives.
View more information on the Proposed Dolores Canyons National Monument on our website.
Magellan Strategies, an independent survey research firm, was commissioned by Mesa County to conduct this survey following community feedback on the proposed Dolores Canyons National Monument. The firm serves local governments, school districts, special districts, and public policy organizations.
