Tipton Promotes Chimney Rock As National Monument

PAGOSA SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) - Colorado congressman Scott Tipton wants to see Chimney Rock in southwest Colorado become a national monument.

The Republican promoted his support for the designation Friday. He says saying the designation would increase awareness of the archaeological site west of Pagosa Springs and boost tourism.

It's believed that members of the ancient Puebloan culture gathered at the site in the San Juan National Forest to observe rare lunar events at the large stone mound with spires.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has said the area's pueblos are the farthest northern points related to New Mexico's famed Chaco Canyon, a center of the Puebloan culture.

Tipton said he plans to introduce the designation in the House. A similar Chimney Rock measure is pending in the Senate.

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