Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer

Stories From The Water

Back to Stories From The Water

Obama Declares Browns Canyon in Colorado a National Monument

The efforts of countless of conservationist, politicians and Coloradans have paid off and have been rewarded with the ultimate prize: a presidential declaration naming Browns Canyon a National Monument. This announcement is, of course, a personal victory for Dvorak Expeditions, as well as hundreds of Coloradans, who have worked to make this a reality.

Making Browns Canyon a National Monument will ensure and protect award winning fishing for years to come

Browns Canyon a National Monument status will ensure and protect award winning fishing for years to come

Huge victory for Colorado’s wilderness circles

The 21,000 acres surrounding the Arkansas River has always been a popular spot for whitewater rafting, and one of our most popular trips for outdoor adventurers. In the words of our fearless leader, Bill Dvorak, the Arkansas River region is “a sanctuary for wildlife”, and it is long overdue that it gets the protection and recognition that it deserves. In our hearts, Browns Canyon has always been a National Monument. But to hear our President officially declare it as such was an indescribable thrill.

Bill Dvorak

Bill Dvorak has worked for over 20 years along with fellow conservationists to make Browns Canyon a National Monument

“I’ve been working on this for over 20 years, and I’m so damn thankful it’s happening. It will do a good thing for the economy. It puts a star on the Rand McNally maps.” Bill Dvorak, owner of Dvorak Expeditions and President of the Friends of Browns Canyon

It has been a hard road, and many have tried and failed in the past. But the efforts of wildlife enthusiast, citizens and politicians finally got the ear of the president urging him to take executive action and use the Antiquities Act to set aside this already public land for protection. In his seven-year presidency, Obama has used the Antiquities Act 16 times and has ensured more than 260 million acres of land get federal protection. The latest being Browns Canyon, as well as the Pullman Historic District of Chicago and former Honouliuli Internment Camp in Hawaii.

February 18th, 2015 will live in infamy, and serve as a reminder that standing united with unwavering dedication and determination is proof that we can make a difference and protect the things we love the most! It may take a little time, but in the end it is all worth it. And we’ll continue to fight for the preservation and protection of Colorado’s landscape, wildlife and rivers. We hope you will, too.

Book your Brown Canyon National Monument trip with Dvorak Expeditions

Call Dvorak today and plan a thrilling adventure down the Arkansas River, through Browns Canyon. See why these public lands deserved to get National Monument status. Experience the thrill of the rapids, the tranquility of the river, the fishing, hunting, hiking, kayaking, SUP and much more.

Thank you, President Obama, and thank you to the countless of people who worked tirelessly to make this a reality. We did it!! Now…what’s next?

Dvorak’s Expeditions – Est. 1969 

Family Owned & Operated  

Bill & Jaci Dvorak