On January 11, 1908 President Roosevelt declared the Grand Canyon a national monument, inspired by a trip in 1903. He urged Americans to “let this great wonder of nature remain as it now is. Do nothing to mar its grandeur, sublimity and loveliness. You cannot improve on it. But what you can do is to keep it for your children, your children’s children, and all who come after you, as the one great sight which every American should see.”

Now 107 years later the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River are under attack from potential mining operations, development of natural springs, and potential tourist attractions. One of the most alarming pojects is a tram that is proposed to be built at the confluence of Little Colorado and the Colorado. The proposed plan includes a 420-acre multimedia complex complete with IMAX theater, shops, hotels, an RV park and gondola tram which would ferry visitors the 1.6 miles to the canyon floor in just 10 minutes.

This powerful video from American Rivers urges action against these project. By giving the Canyon a voice it becomes easier to protect this natural beauty. To learn more about how to help visit American Rivers for more information.