EWG News release
Ritter's Position on Roan a Good Start But Should Go Farther to Protect Plateau
WASHINGTON – Environmental Working Group (EWG) is encouraged that Gov. Bill Ritter has called for protecting critical habitat and properly managed oil and gas drilling around Roan Plateau. But the governor must also work with the Bureau of Land Management to find an alternative to drilling on top of the Plateau.
Colorado can afford to protect Roan Plateau. EWG's analysis found that drilling on the Plateau would provide a small amount of energy easily offset through conservation efforts as modest as implementing new energy efficiency standards for ceiling fans.
This week EWG released data and maps showing that the number of wells permitted in the Roan Plateau have doubled since 2004. Under the plan proposed by the Bush Administration, thousands of more wells could be drilled.
We will continue to work with the Governor’s office, members of Congress and others to protect this pristine public land.