Steamboat Springs — As a reader and person concerned with the health of the planet, I want to highlight the recent release of the ground-breaking government science report entitled "Global Climate Change Impacts in the United States," which presents a clear picture of global warming's threats to Colorado. Among other concerns, decreasing snowpack and water availability are highlighted as major climate-related impacts to our region. Yet, despite the report's dire predictions for a warming world, I believe this is a much-needed wake-up call and an important opportunity for all of us to take action with timely solutions for our planet and economy.

Already, the negative repercussions of climate change can be seen in our beloved Colorado Rockies where changing precipitation patterns have reduced snowmelt and runoff. As snowpack decreases, Colorado's water supply will face increasing shortages, placing agricultural, community and recreational needs in competition with one another, particularly in late summer.

In view of these impacts on our economy and beautiful landscape, I encourage our representatives to act now. Congress soon will vote on a historic bill, the American Clean Energy and Security Act (also known as the Waxman-Markey Bill) that will help protect our communities and natural resources from the effects of global warming. That is why we need U.S. Rep. John Salazar, D-Colo., to support this effort to protect Colorado for future generations by reducing carbon pollution, creating new green jobs and preserving our state's natural beauty and the benefits they provide. Our future depends on it.

Soren Jesperson

Steamboat Springs