Lea | Carbondale, CO

Why does wilderness matter to you?

Wilderness and wild places are so important to me for my health and quality of life. The activities that most inspire and motivate me, like hiking, climbing, and backpacking, wouldn't be possible without wilderness, and these activities are where I find community and friendship with other people. Wilderness is a place I escape to in order to find peace and clarity, and is critical for my mental health and wellbeing.

Why does wilderness matter to your community?

My community's economy and wellbeing relies on wilderness and outdoor access. Without them we wouldn't have clean air and water, vast healthy grazing and cropland for local sustainable agriculture, and healthy activities around which to build community. Economic drivers like hunting and outdoor recreation are critical for our small towns. And beyond that, I believe that the existence of wilderness is a defining American characteristic. It sets us apart from most of the world, where wildlife and wild lands are not protected and "public land" where citizens can enjoy outdoor spaces without reservations and great expense is highly unique.

What are your hopes for the future of wilderness?

I hope that wilderness endures and is appreciated by an ever-growing number of people of all ages and abilities.