A boy enjoys a rocky outcropping in Rocky Mountain National Park, just outside of Estes Park. It is the 100th anniversary of the popular park (. Helen H. Richardson, The Denver Post)
Re: “100 years of Rocky Mountain National Park,” Aug. 9 Perspective essay.
Allen Best is to be commended for his comprehensive article on the 100th anniversary of the creation of Rocky Mountain National Park.
However, Best did not mention a unique challenge facing the park. The largest remaining private in-holding in the park, the Cascade Cottages, is for sale. This 40-acre parcel is west of the park’s Fall River entrance and entirely surrounded by park property. Should a private interest acquire the property, the future of that parcel is unknown.
The Rocky Mountain Conservancy, in partnership with the Trust For Public Lands, has initiated a capital campaign to purchase the Cascade Cottage property so that it can be transferred to the park. Local governments and many individuals have already made substantial financial contributions.
Transferring this parcel to the park would ensure its protection.
Gene R. Reetz, Denver
This letter was published in the Aug. 16 edition.
