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“Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you.” - Pericles Standing Strong for Colorado’s Public LandsAcross the nation, policies affecting our public lands, waters, and wildlife are rapidly shifting. From federal budget cuts impacting land management agencies to local legislation that could shape hunting and angling access, the threats to our outdoor traditions are very real. Here in Colorado, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is stepping up to defend access, advocate for responsible conservation, and ensure that public lands stay public. We’ve notched important wins, but the challenges are real and mounting. Your support is more important than ever. 📖 Read More: State Policy Spotter |
Colorado Policy & Advocacy Updates
Caption: Rep. Rick Taggart (R - District 55) speaks about Senate Joint Resolution 25-009, flanked by BHA chapter leaders. ✅ Colorado Moves to Protect Public LandsThe Colorado Senate recently passed Senate Joint Resolution 25-009, reinforcing the state’s commitment to public land conservation. This resolution stands in stark contrast to efforts in neighboring states that have sought to privatize or sell off public lands. "This is a landmark event at the Colorado State Capitol," said Colorado BHA Co-Chair Don Holmstrom. "While some states are considering selling off their public lands, Colorado is demonstrating broad bipartisan support for keeping them public. This resolution is a testament to our state's outdoor heritage and commitment to democracy and freedom."
Caption: Colorado BHA’s Ivan James testifies against HB25-1258 as other BHA members look on. ❌ HB25-1258 Postponed IndefinitelyBHA leaders and volunteers, including Legislative Liaison Ivan James and others, testified against HB25-1258, which proposed changes to how wildlife is managed in Colorado, specifically attempting to redefine scientific management practices in ways that would deemphasize hunting. After considerable debate, the bill has been postponed indefinitely–a major win. However, similar proposals could resurface in future legislative sessions. Colorado BHA remains vigilant in advocating for science-based wildlife management that prioritizes habitat conservation, species sustainability, and fair chase ethics. 🏛️ Congratulations to Murphy Robinson!We’re excited to share that Murphy Robinson has been confirmed as a member of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission, representing sportspeople. Colorado BHA strongly supported Murphy’s nomination, recognizing his passion for conservation, commitment to ethical hunting and fishing, and extensive outdoor leadership experience. We look forward to his contributions in shaping Colorado’s wildlife policies, and to working collaboratively with all of the newly-confirmed commissioners.
⚖️ Major Court Decision Supports Corner Crossing in ColoradoFollowing key legal victories, corner crossing—the practice of stepping over private property corners to legally access public lands—has now been upheld in Colorado and other Western states. This ruling marks a major win for public land users, ensuring that legally accessible lands remain open to hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts. (That said, there are some important nuances to be aware of; read more from OnX.) BHA has long fought for clarity on this issue, and this decision sets an important precedent. To celebrate, BHA has launched a limited edition commemorative shirt. Get yours today at the BHA shop! 🦬 Supporting Wildlife Management for Wild BisonBison were the iconic wild herbivore in much of the North American Continent at the time of European settlement. They were a major source of food and materials for Native American for at least the past 14,000 years as well as a major part of their cultural heritage. But bison are currently classified as livestock in Colorado, leaving any wild bison that may occasionally drift into the state from neighboring states with no protection. Colorado BHA supports SB25-053, the Protect Wild Bison bill with the amendments proposed by the DNR, with Co-Chair Don Holmstrom recently voicing that support before the State Senate. Among other things, these amendments provide CPW the authority to establish license prices, fines, and penalties for the harvesting, illegal possession and poaching of wildlife. This would allow the opportunity for regulated hunting if and when it became useful as a management tool. We would welcome that opportunity should conditions in Colorado ever merit that possibility. This bill has no provisions for re-introduction of wild bison into Colorado. |
BHA in Action: Habitat Stewardship & Community Engagement🐾 2024 Fence Removal Success – A Big Thank You! Thanks to our incredible volunteers, Colorado BHA completed one of its most ambitious habitat restoration seasons yet! Thanks to a grant from the Colorado RESTORE program of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, we were able to: ✔ Remove 14.55 miles of obsolete fencing These efforts directly improve habitat connectivity, allowing elk, deer, and other wildlife to move freely across the landscape. Thank you to all who participated—our public lands are better because of you! Colorado BHA is excited to announce the formation of the Colorado Stream Access Coalition! Despite Colorado being the most popular destination for river recreation in the country, we have some of the worst public access laws in the West. The Coalition is fighting to secure legal public access to our rivers while ensuring responsible management and environmental conservation. We believe everyone should have the right to paddle, fish, wade, and explore Colorado’s rivers without fear of trespassing on private property. The Coalition has posted an information-packed website with opportunities to sign-up organizations and individuals for future actions. Get involved at: https://coloradostreamaccess.org/. 📚 BHA’s Gwinn Joins Colorado Wildlife Council – Educating the Public Colorado BHA’s legislative liaison, Bryan Gwinn, was recently appointed by CPW Director Jeff Davis to the Colorado Wildlife Council as the Eastern Slope’s hunter representative. $1.50 from every hunting and fishing license goes into a fund (currently about $3 million annually) that the Council used to educate the general public about the benefits of wildlife, wildlife management, and wildlife-related recreational opportunities in Colorado, specifically hunting and fishing. Gwinn notes, “Colorado is only one of a few states that has something like this - a council funded by licenses whose sole mission is to tout the benefits of hunting and fishing to the general public. If something like this was proposed in the current climate there's no guarantee it would pass, so it's a great advocacy opportunity we shouldn't take for granted.” 📅 Upcoming Public Meetings – Make Your Voice HeardAs public land advocates, one of the most impactful ways to get involved is by attending BLM and CPW Commission meetings. These meetings shape public land management, hunting regulations, and wildlife policies. Tentative Schedule for Upcoming BLM Colorado Recreation Summits: 🗓️ May 1 – Kremmling, CO 🗓️ July 31 – Meeker, CO Contact your local BLM office or visit blm.gov to confirm meeting dates and locations. Visit the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission site for upcoming meetings and agenda materials. |
Get Involved: Events & Gatherings🎶 Night Out for Conservation – April 17 in Denver You're invited to join the BHA staff at New West Knifeworks in Denver on Thursday, April 17th at 6pm for a night of music, food, drinks, auctions, and camaraderie! We're bringing together passionate public land advocates, hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts for an evening of support for wild places. We'll raise a glass–and money–for our continued work on behalf of YOUR public lands and waters. Space is limited! 🏛️ Sportsmen’s Day at the Capitol – April 25 in Denver Get ready for an exciting day at the Colorado State Capitol! From 11am - 2pm, the Colorado Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus is hosting Sportsmen’s Day at the Capitol, celebrating the incredible contributions of Colorado’s sportsmen and women. Join Colorado BHA and the Colorado Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus for a free wild game luncheon and a powerful lineup of speakers highlighting the essential role sportsmen and women play as this nation's original conservationists. This is a can't-miss opportunity to connect, celebrate, and advocate for our outdoor heritage. We look forward to seeing you there! RSVP at the link above. 🎉 Beers, Bands & Barbed Wire Strands 2025 - May 16-18 in Gunnison Join us for Colorado BHA’s 3rd Annual Beers, Bands, and Barbed Wire Strands event! Celebrate Colorado Public Lands Day with a weekend of stewardship, live music, food, drinks, camping, and tons of great prizes. This is a great opportunity to give back to our public lands and connect with like-minded conservationists. 📍 Event Info & Registration: Beers, Bands & Barbed Wire Strands 2025 🌲 Mile High Hunt & Fish Expo – April 11-13 in Aurora Come check out the latest gear, hunting and fishing seminars, and conservation advocacy opportunities. BHA will have a booth—stop by and say hello! 📍 See the Full Event Calendar: Colorado BHA Events |
🔥 Around the CampfireNational Media Highlights Colorado Wildlife Crossings Work The New York Times recently featured an extended story about wildlife crossings in Colorado. The state is a leader in creating innovative over- and underpasses spanning busy highways, increasing connectivity for wildlife and safety for motorists. Colorado BHA has been actively involved in these efforts, including through our participation in the Colorado Wildlife and Transportation Alliance. It’s great to see major media outlets drawing attention to this critical issue. Stay Connected & Support the CauseJoin or Renew Your Membership! Through April 11, join, renew, upgrade, or gift a BHA membership and you’ll be entered to win a North American Rendezvous Package! This includes: 📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for real-time updates!
Cheers, - The Colorado Chapter of BHA |
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