This month, American Whitewater recognizes Scott Downs as our May Volunteer of the Month. Scott is a well respected part of the Pensylvania paddling scene, a safety boater on the Upper Yough, and a 28 year veteran raft guide. Scott has also paddled extensively in the west, and is deeply concerned with the announcement from BLM earlier this year, that nearly 200 gas wells are being permitted within Utah's Green River and Desolation Canyon Wildernes Study Area.
Scott turned his passion into action, and has helped AW staff and volunteers analyze the impacts from drilling on the Green River and it's iconic side canyons. The technical and anecdotal info Scott has provided, has helped AW approach the Department of Interior with a request that they re-evaluate which management Alternative under the GASCO EIS is approved.
In the coming weeks, we are anticipating a positive announcement from the Administration on GASCO's proposed development project – hopefully one that balances domestic resource extration while barring drilling in the Desolation Canyon proposed wilderness and affording greater protections for the Green River and Nine Mile Canyon badlands.
Thank You Scott!
In recognition of his efforts, Scott will be receiving a OuterCore shirt from Kokatat. Thanks Scott!