Colorado is rapidly losing its most iconic asset: nature. 

Nearly one-third ofColorados landshave already been altered by human developmentplacing Colorado at the highest percentage of natural areas already lost to developmentamongWestern states. And with just 10%of lands protected from new development, the gap between lands protected and lands already developed is among the highest in theWest.  

As a fast-growing, energy-producing state, Colorado has less time than other Western states to conserve wildlife and outdoor access. While the West loses a little over an acre of wildlife habitat and open space every few minutes, Colorado can chart a path as a leader among Western states in keeping the West’s great outdoors and wildlife habitats intact and healthy while remaining a Western economic hub for outdoor recreation.

Significant amounts of new funding are needed to ensure that Colorado can offset the strain that development places on its iconic landscapes, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities. A fall 2021 report by the Colorado Department of Natural Resources inventoried existing and new funding such as the Colorado Wild Pass, Future Generations Act, Wildlife Habitat Stamp Program, and Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) – and concluded that in the face of accelerating habitat loss and climate change, additional sources of conservation funding are needed.

The good news is that enough high-value natural areas still exist to help Colorado’s diverse wildlife weather the worst effects of climate change – if more funding is added now to existing programs to conserve and protect these lands. Conserving our lands is good for our economy and the Colorado way of life. Public lands and wildlife are major contributors to Colorado’s economies, local businesses, and a draw for tourism across the state.

Add your name to join WRA in supporting more funding for Colorado's most iconic landscapes and wildlife!