Dear Mr. Salazar:

I am writing to express my outrage at the state's repeated efforts to block measures designed to protect the black-tailed prairie dog. As Attorney General for the State of Colorado, you are asked to represent and defend the interests of its citizens. The black-tailed prairie dog, which is biologically threatened and being decimated at alarming rates, is a keystone species of the prairie ecosystem. Helping to preserve this prairie ecosystem, which reflects the heritage and beauty of the state, is certainly in the interests of its citizens. Many people like me choose to live in Colorado because of its wonderful abundance of wildlife.

As attorney general, you are on record as opposing federal protection of the species and have declared the state's intention to sue the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service if that agency gives the black-tailed prairie dog a "threatened" listing. Instead, I urge you to work with other government agencies to promote meaningful protection for this species from the multiple threats of poisoning, bulldozing and shooting that occur every day. Without the black-tailed prairie dog, the citizens of Colorado would not be able to enjoy the rich diversity of wildlife that the prairie ecosystem has to offer. These same citizens have shown overwhelming support for measures that protect Colorado's wildlife. Thank you for your attention.

Sincerely,

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