Conservationists Secure Another Victory for Science-Based Wildlife Management in Colorado

This victory follows the decisive rejection of Proposition 127 last year, which sought to ban mountain lion and bobcat hunting, as well as the already federally protected lynx. Now, with House Bill 25-1258, another attempt was made to weaken science-based wildlife management by altering a crucial statute. 

Currently, Colorado law states: “The state shall utilize hunting, trapping, and fishing as the primary methods of effecting necessary wildlife harvest.” HB25-1258 proposed a subtle yet impactful change — replacing “shall” with “may” — which would have removed the guarantee that hunting, trapping and fishing remain essential management tools. 

“Although titled ‘Scientific Wildlife Management,’ this bill instead created confusion about the best available science,” said David Nikonow, NWTF district biologist for Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. “We believe that the best available science should be determined by the wildlife professionals at CPW and not be influenced by the legislature.” 

On March 6, the House Agriculture, Water and Natural Resources Committee heard testimony on HB25-1258. Two representatives from the Colorado NWTF State Board, Connor Blaxton and Cliff Beasley joined Patt Dorsey, NWTF director of conservation operations for the West, and numerous sportsmen and women who were in attendance to voice their opposition. 

Listen to the full testimonies from Connor and Cliff in the video above, or listen to the entire Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources hearing here.

“There’s a great Helen Keller quote: ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much," Dorsey said. “We currently find ourselves in that same paradigm as sportsmen today. When we work together, we tell a compelling story, and we can change attitudes.”   

Thanks to their well-prepared testimonies and steadfast civic engagement, the bill failed to pass out of committee with a resounding 3-10 vote. 

“The NWTF was grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the fight to defeat HB-1258,” Blaxton said. “Killing the bill in committee is critical as no additional funds or manpower will need to be dedicated to defeating HB-1258. The Colorado NWTF State Chapter is committed to preserving hunting heritage and wildlife habitat across the state of Colorado and encourages those interested in turkey hunting to contact their local NWTF chapter.” 

Hunters and conservationists play a vital role in shaping the future of outdoor conservation. By engaging in advocacy efforts, reaching out to legislators and supporting science-driven wildlife policies, sportsmen and women can ensure that responsible wildlife management remains a priority. 

 “A huge thanks to their civic engagement that helped to maintain true science-based wildlife management while preserving our hunting heritage,” Nikonow said. 

The National Wild Turkey Federation remains dedicated to collaborating with policymakers and advocating for the rights of hunters and outdoor enthusiasts across the country. Learn more about the NWTF’s policy efforts. 

About the National Wild Turkey Federation  

Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 24 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.