Documents and Photos

Another great success in our battle - 60 more signatures and over $800 raised. Thank you Howard! (Howard, CO. May, 2007)

Letters and Documents | Photo Documentation

Letters and Documents

This page features some of the letters of concern that have been submitted to permitting agencies and published in area newspapers. At times, we may also include other documents that record relevant information or news.

Every letter is published with the consent of the author. Click on the More... link to read the full text in a separate browser window.

Human Health and Safety Concerns: "Currently it takes Western Fremont County’s Arkansas Valley Ambulance from 35 to 45 minutes to respond to a call. It then takes that long again..." More...>

Wetlands Biologist weighs in with scientific view: "The proposed project has a potential for significant environmental impact and a public controversy over the potential risks, adverse impacts..." More...>

Economic and Environmental: "I am a full-time flyfishing guide. I live and work on the Arkansas River. My deep concerns about the Christo “Over the River” project include the environmental impacts, personal and community economic..." More...>

Postcard from the Future: "July 2010. We are in Colorado for our vacation, and saw the great Christo “Over the River” exhibit today..." More...>

Facts from Volunteer Firefighter: "I still don't feel selfish in opposing this project. I'm a taxpayer and there will be real costs to me if this project is approved..." More...>

Health Care Issues: "As a Home Health Care Occupational Therapist, I work for St. Thomas More Hospital in Canon City, Colorado. We provide services to all of Fremont County..." More...>

Most impacted most should have more say: "Consider not only 'For' and 'Against' but the source of each letter and the reasons for the votes..." More...>

Other documents:

• Point by Point analysis of OTR according to Christo's website.(MS Word Document)
• Presentation to the Citizens Task Force, July 18, 2006.(MS Word Document)

Photos that document some of the objections to Christo's "Over the River" project

Colorado State Parks and BLM Informational Signs in Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Christo's Rifle Gap project.

Copper Gulch Road as an Alternate Route?

Environmental: Soil Disturbance Promotes Noxious Weeds

Canyon Information Signs

These photos show you some samples of the signs posted in the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) sites and BLM areas, most of which are in proposed OTR display areas. They point out the fragility of the riparian, wildlife and other environmental features, some notable historical remnants and necessary respect for private property.

The signs below are interactive - move your mouse over them for a closer look.

The bighorn sheep, which this canyon is named for, have developed into a very healthy population. They have especially thrived since the Railroad went out of use in the 1990's. The abandoned tracks across the river from car traffic and virtually all human access has provided a safe corridor for them. Canyon visitors love to watch these wild creatures.

Apparently the state and federal agencies who oversee this habitat endorse the care of these animals and their habitat, as evidenced by the agency insignias on the signs along the canyon.

The sign at right is at the west end of the Pinnacle Rock recreation area. It explains a bit about the riparian (riverside) habitat of the Bighorn Sheep Canyon. From grass to trees, insects to fish, birds to mammals, all are interdependent for survival. Human intervention does have an impact, and can be catastrophic!

If we are instructed to be so careful in this environment, how can an invasive, destructive project such as Christo's Over the River drapes even be considered here?

(Remember to roll your computer mouse over the sections of the sign to read each point listed.)

Below, the Kingfisher is one of the river inhabitants detailed on the "Travel with Care" sign.