Bennet Statement on Meeting with Interior Secretary Nominee Sally Jewell

Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement in support of Interior Secretary nominee Sally Jewell following their meeting today.

“The Interior Secretary plays a major role in the management of Colorado’s public lands, natural resources, and wildlife. It is a job that requires a unique commitment to conservation, along with the recognition that many of our public lands must be managed for multiple, and sometimes competing, uses. Sally Jewell will be ready to strike the needed balance, and I look forward to supporting her nomination.

“Sally Jewell is a woman of unique distinction who has left an incredible mark on the business world as the leader of one of the most pre-eminent outdoor gear companies. Her additional background in the energy industry and the conservation community round out a diversity of experiences that will serve her well in her new capacity. During our meeting, I emphasized the importance of protecting Colorado’s pristine Thompson Divide, and we also discussed the sentiments from communities in Southwest Colorado regarding the Gunnison sage-grouse endangered species decision. She is aware of these issues, and I look forward to working with her to ensure Colorado’s interests are taken into account in future federal decisions.” 

Sally Jewell is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI). Prior to joining REI, she spent 19 years in commercial banking. She began her professional career as an engineer for Mobil Oil Corporation. She received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Washington.