Category: News

  • State legislative updates re: wildlife

    State legislative updates re: wildlife

     

    Bills CWF has testified on or has tracked this session — all have concluded as follows at session end:

    Bill to create study of state trust lands and stewardship trust lands (HB 25-1332) was heard in the House Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources Committee on April 21. CWF testified in support. The bill has passed both the House and the Senate.

    Bill was introduced on March 19 to prevent motor vehicle collisions and protect Colorado’s wildlife (HB 25-1303). It will help to fund infrastructure tools at highest risk wildlife highway crossings. Numerous organizations including CWF have been working intensively and effectively for several months to gain this bill.   Here is the press release    The bill was heard in the House Transportation,  Housing and Local Government Committee on April 1. The bill passed with amendments on a 9-4 vote, was moved forward to the House Committee on Finance where CWF testified in support on April 7. The vote was 7-6 in favor, bill passed Finance Committee with amendment, Appropriations Committee and House. Bill was heard April 24 in Senate Finance Committee and defeated on April 29.  CWF is very disappointed as are the bill sponsors Senators Roberts and Winters. The sponsors have committed to bring back a bill in the 2026 session.

    CWF testified in support of the bill to continue the Colorado Habitat Stamp program (SB25-049). It is a clean bill that will remove the sunset and continue this important program indefinitely. The program began in 2006 and has operated smoothly, investing funds generated from the annual purchase of the habitat stamps into strategic investments to benefit wildlife habitat and access to habitats through landowner conservation easements, public easements and fee title transfers. The bill passed out of the Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee on a 6-1 vote, passed the Senate, and House Committees, and House Floor. Bill passed April 30.

    CWF testified in support of local government review of fencing projects on Sangre de Cristo land grant lands in the San Luis Valley that are planned to be at least five feet in height and exceed a specified length. (HB 25-1023). Although CWF traditionally does not weigh in on private property matters, this bill is important as local government review would likely enable elk, deer and pronghorn on these lands to continue safely crossing fences that lie along their established local migration routes and habitats. The bill passed out of the House Agriculture, Water and Natural Resource Committee on a 11-2 vote. The bill passed the House with amendments, Senate with amendments and House concurred with Senate amendments. Bill has passed.

    Another bill would classify bison that wander into Colorado from Utah as big game (SB 25-053). Currently, all bison are classified as agriculture. CWF testified in support the bill conditioned on adoption by the Senate Agriculture & Naatural Resources Committee of the amendments proposed by the Department of Natural Resources. The amendments were adopted on the House Floor. The bill has passed and awaits signature of the Governor.

    “Scientific Wildlife Management” (HB 25-1258) was introduced in the House and was postponed indefinitely after losing in committee March 6. CWF opposed the bill and strongly supports the use of sound science in Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) administration of wildlife management. Unfortunately, this bill is a thinly veiled bill aimed at reducing Colorado’s long history of utilizing hunting and angling as a primary wildlife management tool by changing the requirement that CPW “shall” use hunting and angling as a wildlife management tool to a reduced standard of “may.” It undercuts CPW’s ability to determine what constitutes the best available science and to use their own data and research. Currently, CPW faces no limitations on its ability to use a wide range of wildlife management tools for the benefit of all of Colorado’s wildlife including threatened and endangered species. The bill does not specify what constitutes best available science nor who shall make that determination. It does not recognize the value of data collected and interpreted by CPW’s professional field biologists and researchers. The bill could inadvertently stifle advancement of wildlife science and the application of scientific hypothesis. The best available science available today was only an idea yesterday. Reducing the role of hunter and angler harvest may result in revenue losses to CPW, which is largely funded by license sales. The bill was postponed indefinitely on March 6.

     

  • Colorado’s Outdoors Strategy has been launched!

    Colorado’s Outdoors Strategy has been launched!

    On April 23, 2025 Governor Polis and coordinating partners launched the Colorado’s Outdoors Strategy. The press release is below. Colorado’s Outdoors Strategy is the overarching strategy – not a plan – for Colorado’s goals of climate resilient conservation and outdoor recreation. CWF participated on the steering committee as the vision and strategy were developed. In our view, COS provides navigational guidance and robust tools to integrate wildlife conservation needs and outdoor recreation desires.T he tools are extremely helpful and are found on Colorado Natural Heritage Program’s CODEX (Colorado’s Conservation Data Explorer).

    Here s the link to the extensive press release and documents. https://www.colorado.gov/governor/news/states-outdoor-recreation-and-conservation-leaders-announce-launch-colorados-outdoors-strategy

  • Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Weekend Class Announcements!

    Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Weekend Class Announcements!

    BOW Weekend June 2025 Class Catalog

    Walking/Hiking/Physical Exertion Key

    Low – light exertion if any

    Moderate – a step up from easy but not extreme

    Challenging – you might work up a sweat

     

    Beginner Archery

    Taught by: Michelle Seubert & Pepper Canterbury, Colorado Parks and Wildlife

    Moderate-Challenging / Outdoors

    In this hands-on class, new archers will learn range safety including the range commands and range rules as well as the basics of proper shooting form and technique. We will be using a compound bow for this class. All equipment will be supplied and explained.

     

    The Basics of Handgun Safety, Home Storage and the Attitude for owning a Handgun

    Taught by: Vicki Vargas-Madrid & Mark Jennings, Denver Parks & Rec / Colorado Parks and Wildlife

    Low / Indoors

    Students will leave this class with the basic knowledge, skills and attitude necessary for owning, storing and using a handgun safely.

     

    Ropes Course, Rock Wall, & Zipline

    Taught by: Easterseals Rocky Mountain Village

    Challenging / Outdoors

    A complete ropes experience. The first 2 hours will consist of initiative games and an obstacle activity or two (no more than 2-3 feet off the ground). The final hour will consist of rock climbing and zip line! Please wear close toed shoes.

     

    DIY Healing Salve

    Taught by: Amy Propernick, Colorado Clays

    Low / Indoor

    This class will discuss and demonstrate the process of creating tallow from beef fat.  We will then talk about the healing benefits of plants especially Calendula, Chickweed, Plantain Leaf and Comfrey Leaf.   We will infuse oil with the dried plants.  Then we will create our own healing salve by combining tallow, infused oil and beeswax.  Each participant will bring home their salve in a labeled tin.

     

    You Harvested Your Game, Now What?

    Taught by: Vicki Vargas-Madrid & Jennifer Standlee, Denver Parks & Rec / Colorado Parks and Wildlife

    Low / Indoor

    What next, after harvesting your hard-earned animal? You’ll learn the basic steps of caring for your animal, and preparing it for consumption, along with some tips for keeping your meat clean and healthy. Together the class will prepare a yummy game meat meal, using basic ingredients, following classroom discussion.

     

    Outdoor Survival Skills & Techniques

    Taught by: Mark Jennings, Colorado Parks and Wildlife
    Low-Moderate / Outdoors

    We will begin the journey of learning and honing the skills, knowledge, and the confidence to respond to a survival situation in the outdoor environment. Introduction to the basics of survival and what you need for every outdoor adventure. We will take an in-depth look at survival kits and what are the necessary components, how to use them and other thoughts on what’s important!

     

    Beginner Orienteering

    Taught by: Pepper Canterbury, Colorado Parks and Wildlife

    Low-Moderate / Outdoors

    We will begin with the basics of map and compass types, terminology, key elements and how to begin deciphering them.  We will then take this knowledge to the land around us and apply our new skills in the natural environment.  This is a beginner’s course and there is no expectation of prior skill from our participants. All educational materials will be provided, please bring your own snacks, water, a backpack, and other personal items.

     

    Orienteering 201

    Taught by: Pepper Canterbury, Colorado Parks and Wildlife

    Low-Moderate / Outdoors

    Building on the basics covered in the introductory class, we will explore advanced map reading strategies, orienteering challenges, and practical navigation exercises in diverse outdoor settings. This intermediate-level course is designed to enhance your proficiency in interpreting maps, understanding compass features, and navigating through varying terrain. Participants must have taken Beginner Orienteering or have prior orienteering experience to register for this class.

     

    Birding 101

    Taught by: Lark BenDaniel, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies

    Low-Moderate / Outdoors

    Begin your day listening to bird song, exploring the subalpine ecosystem, and making new friends, during Bird Conservancy of the Rockies’ bird watching outing! We’ll begin by learning bird identification basics and familiarizing ourselves with the different montane species. With our binoculars, field guides, and spotting scopes in tow, we’ll then venture out to give birding a go! By lunchtime you’ll feel more centered, aware of the living things around you, and confident in your newfound skills. You’ll walk away with bird identification techniques, improved observation skills, and enough fun bird facts to fuel a lifelong interest and to grow as a birder beyond this weekend. Getting into birding can be intimidating. This is a great place to begin!

     

    Women’s Self Defense

    Taught by: Vicki Vargas-Madrid & Jerrie McKee, Denver Parks & Rec / Colorado Parks and Wildlife

    Challenging / Indoors

    During this class, students will learn to be aware of potential threats around them, gain knowledge on how to minimize their chances of becoming victimized, and learn and practice moves and techniques to utilize if ever attacked/assaulted.

     

    Hiking 101

    Taught by: Danielle Piscatelli, Denver Parks & Rec

    Moderate-Challenging / Outdoors

    Hiking 101 is designed for individuals who would hike anywhere from 1-4 miles on relatively flat ground.  But who are also interested in learning a little bit about being a good steward while on the trail.  Learning points during the hike include basic trail etiquette; intro to Leave No Trace; potential flora & fauna identification pertaining to the area; what are 10 essentials & why they matter

     

    The ABC’s of Reading Animal Tracks & Sign

    Taught by: Erin Angel, Cottonwood Institute

    Low-Moderate / Outdoors

    Students will get a feel for the basic language of tracking to enable them to read the stories our animal neighbors have left for us. You will learn animal movement patterns in a fun and engaging way. You will use your intuition to discover their behavior. You will leave the class with skills to help you be more connected to the animals in your own neighborhood.

     

    Intro to Fly Fishing

    Taught by: Mary Manka & Lydia Wickizer, Colorado Women Fly Fishers

    Moderate-Challenging / Outdoors

    Want to learn the basics of fly fishing? In this beginner’s class, you will learn the necessary steps to rig your fly rod, some basic knots used in fishing, and how to cast. From there on, it’s time on the water, sitting on the bank, enjoying the most gorgeous places in Colorado, and getting yourself rigged and fishing.

     

    Fly Fishing 201

    Taught by: Mary Manka & Lydia Wickizer, Colorado Women Fly Fishers

    Moderate-Challenging / Outdoors

    This class will take the next step from the Intro to Fly Fishing course and will cover “reading the water” – where fish are most likely to be holding in the water, and more depth on which flies to use. More advanced casting techniques will be shown. Participants must have taken Intro to Fly Fishing or have prior fly fishing experience to register for this class.

     

    Wilderness Safety Essentials

    Taught by: Aimara Rodriguez, Latino Outdoors

    Low-Moderate / Indoors & Outdoors

    This beginner-friendly class will provide participants with foundational wilderness safety skills to feel prepared and confident when spending time outdoors. Through a combination of interactive discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and group activities, participants will learn how to assess and respond to common outdoor injuries, create effective first aid kits, and apply practical first aid techniques. Topics covered include scene size-up, treating wounds, addressing heat-related and cold-related illnesses, altitude sickness, and developing skills for emergency response. By the end of the class, participants will feel more capable of handling unexpected situations on the trail and will leave with practical skills they can apply to future outdoor experiences.

     

    Plant ID – including edible & medicinal uses

    Taught by: Becky Ruzicka, Instructor/Researcher in the Dept. of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at CSU

    Low-Moderate / Outdoors

    Students of this class will learn how to identify the most common wildflowers, shrubs, and grasses of the Southern Rockies. We will focus on species that have special importance for wildlife habitat and/or edible and medicinal uses. Students will leave with an understanding of the specific characteristics to look for when identifying plants that they can apply to plants outside of what is covered in class and an appreciation for how plants can communicate the health of the ecosystem to us (if we are attuned enough to listen).

     

    Plant ID 201

    Taught by: Becky Ruzicka, Instructor/Researcher in the Dept. of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at CSU

    Low-Moderate / Outdoors

    In this intermediate class, students will build on foundational plant identification skills to explore a broader range of native wildflowers, shrubs, and grasses found in the Southern Rockies. We’ll dive deeper into plant families, growth patterns, seasonal indicators, and subtle distinguishing features. Special attention will be given to ecological relationships, foraging ethics, and how to interpret plant communities as indicators of environmental health. Field-based observation and hands-on practice will be emphasized. This course is ideal for those who have completed our introductory class or have basic knowledge of plant ID. Please bring water, snacks, a notebook, and gear for time outdoors.

     

    Wild Game Processing

    Taught by: Cheryl Varela, Colorado Parks and Wildlife

    Moderate / Indoors

    Students will learn how to field dress and process wild game meat. There will be different types of game (small and large) to skin and debone. You will learn about the different muscles groups and how to break them down to cooking portions during the process. Not for the squeamish!

     

    Sustainability, the Outdoors, and You!

    Taught by: Ginny Sednek, Colorado Parks and Wildlife

    Low / Indoors & Outdoors

    Join us for an interactive interpretive presentation called ‘Show Respect, When Talkin’ Trash’ to learn how your trash has a history, and its future depends on you. The class will then move into how we can be more sustainable in the outdoors, sharing a fun way to remember the Leave No Trace principles, what you can do to reduce your impact, and providing resources on where to find reused gear. The class will close with a DIY deodorant-making tutorial. You are encouraged to bring a small (1 ounce) container from home to reuse, but all supplies will be provided if you forget. You will leave the class empowered to reduce your impact, energized to share resources with others, and with the know-how to make deodorant at home!

  • Westerners STRONGLY support the oil and gas reforms currently in place on public lands

    Westerners STRONGLY support the oil and gas reforms currently in place on public lands

  • Annual Conservation in the West Poll

    Annual Conservation in the West Poll

    On February 19, 2025 the annual Conservation in the West Poll was published. The Poll was conducted January 3-17, prior to the Inauguration. The Poll was conducted again this year by Lori Weigel and Kathryn Hayne of New Bridge Strategy and Dave Metz of Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates. They surveyed 3,316 voters in eight western states: Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Arizona, Wyoming, Montana, Nevada and Idaho.  Here are a few Colorado highlights: 57% “believe that loss of habitat for fish and wildlife is an extremely or very serious problem.” 63% “oppose reducing protections for some of the rare plants and animals protected under the Endangered Species Act.” 88% prefer decisions about public lands, water, and wildlife be made by career professionals such as rangers, scientists, and firefighters rather than new appointed officials who come from other industries.” 70% “support only allowing oil and gas companies the right to drill in areas where there is high likelihood to actually produce oil and gas.” 76% prefer that leaders place more emphasis on protecting water, air, wildlife habitat, and recreation opportunities over maximizing the amount of land available for drilling and mining.” Link to the Poll 

     

     

     

    8 states 3300voters interviewed

     

    8 states 3300voters interviewed

  • CWF supports local gov. review of high fences on Sangre de Cristo land grant lands

    CWF supports local gov. review of high fences on Sangre de Cristo land grant lands

    CWF testified in support of local government review of fencing projects on Sangre de Cristo land grant lands in the San Luis Valley that are planned to be at least five feet in height and exceed a specified length (HB 25-1023). Although CWF traditionally does not weigh in on private property matters, this bill is important as it would enable elk, deer and pronghorn on these lands to continue safely crossing fences that lie along their established local migration routes and habitats. The bill passed out of the House Agriculture, Water and Natural Resource Committee on a 11-2 vote.

  • Colorado Habitat Stamp Bill passes the Senate

    Colorado Habitat Stamp Bill passes the Senate

    CWF testified in support of the bill to continue the Colorado Habitat Stamp program (SB25-049). It is a clean bill that will remove the sunset and continue this important program indefinitely. The program began in 2006 and has operated smoothly, investing funds generated from the annual purchase of the habitat stamps into strategic investments to benefit wildlife habitat and access to habitats through landowner conservation easements, public easements and fee title transfers. The bill passed out of the Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee on a 6-1 vote, passed the Senate and is now in the House.