Addressing growing concerns over the future health of the environment, GOP lawmakers announced their blueprint for environmental sustainability today at the Capitol.   Touted as a balanced approach to developing Colorado's resources, the plan includes measures to empower citizens through incentives to buy energy-efficient appliances as well as a comprehensive approach to preserving forestland from pine beetles and wild fires. 

Republicans from both chambers stressed the need to safeguard Colorado's natural beauty and quality of life while also preserving the state's dynamic economy.  They say their plan can achieve these goals without imposing "heavy-handed, across-the-board mandates" -- a charge that has been leveled at the governor and his fellow Democrats' approach to the environment.

"Gas prices are through the roof and going higher, we need to maximize all of our energy production to protect the pocketbooks of working Coloradans," Sen. Greg Brophy of Wray said.  "The good news is that the Republican agenda will do that while still protecting Colorado’s incredible environment."