Raiding the Roan

Goddard believes that sacrificing the Roan Plateau to the dubious economics of the gas business makes no sense at all. "What are we going to leave for future generations?" he asks. "I'd like to see my grandkids enjoy half of what I've been able to enjoy. What kind of price can you put on that?"

The outfitter has made his living off the wild things in the canyons for years now, but he knows there are some things -- sights, smells, encounters, moments -- that are beyond price.

Mark Manger

Former Rifle councilman Joe Clugston a regular visitor to the Roan Plateau, says that widespread gas drilling will bring roads, people and pollution -- and drive wildlife from the area.

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More About

• Joe Clugston
• Keith Goddard
• Garland Anderson
• Parks and Historic Sites
• Wildlife

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"Maybe we can take $20 billion worth of gas off that mountain," he says. "But so much of what's up there you won't be able to replace. Ever. When it's gone, it's gone."

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