Mark your calendar to take a step back in time

Lake City, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management Gunnison Field Office invites you to explore the historic Alpine Loop and help us celebrate the centennial anniversary of the 1906 Antiquities Act. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Saturday, September 16, 2006, local history buffs will be stationed at historic sites along the scenic backcountry byway. Plan for a full day to learn about the area’s rich mining history and complex geology and, as a bonus, enjoy the fall colors in all their glory!

“The public is encouraged to start their tour in Lake City and end either in Silverton or follow the Alpine Loop back around to Lake City,” Field Manager Kenny McDaniel said. “This is a great opportunity for folks to experience their country’s mining heritage first-hand.”

Across Colorado, the BLM is hosting a number of activities all year long in celebration of the centennial of the Antiquities Act. Check out the current listing of these projects and programs at www.blm.gov/heritage/adventures/menu/events.html. The Act, signed into law by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906, revolutionized the preservation of our nation’s history by making the federal government responsible for safeguarding historic places and resources that define America. For the past hundred years, the Act has helped citizens nationwide protect, appreciate and celebrate the special places and irreplaceable resources found on public lands: archaeological sites, fossils, and natural wonders. Across the West, the BLM continues to follow the mission of the Antiquities Act: safeguarding the nation’s legacy of ruins, archaeological sites, fossils, historic and prehistoric monuments and structures, objects of scientific interest, and historic landmarks on public lands.

High-clearance vehicles are required to make the 65-mile-one-way trip across two spectacular alpine passes—Cinnamon Pass (elevation 12,640 ft.) and Engineer Pass (elevation 12,800 ft.). The event will be contingent upon good weather conditions. For additional information on the day’s activities, contact Dave Lazorchak at (970) 642-4446 or Arden Anderson at (970) 642-4454.

-BLM-

EDITOR’S NOTE – Historic site photographs available upon request.