Protection of Wildlife Resources in Colorado

Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission Resolution 20-XX

Regarding Rules to Implement S.B. 19-181

for Protection of Wildlife Resources

WHEREAS on April 16, 2019, Governor Jared S. Polis signed S.B. 19–181 into law, an act concerning additional public welfare protections regarding the conduct of oil and gas operations; and

WHEREAS S.B. 19–181 directs the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) to regulate the development and production of the natural resources of oil and gas in the State of Colorado in a manner that protects public health, safety, and welfare, including protection of the environment and wildlife resources; and

WHERAS the COGCC is engaged in ongoing rulemakings to implement regulatory changes necessitated by S.B. 19-181; and

WHEREAS the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission’s (CPW’s) mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado's natural resources; and

WHEREAS CPW and the COGCC have a long history of collaboration and recognize that wildlife and their environment are to be protected, preserved, enhanced, and managed for the use, benefit, and enjoyment of the people of this state and its visitors; and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that CPW affirms its appreciation and support for the ongoing efforts of the COGCC, in consultation with CPW, to develop rules implementing S.B. 19–181; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that CPW urges the COGCC to adopt regulations to protect Colorado’s environment and wildlife resources for future generations, including regulations protecting riparian areas, aquatic habitats, and seasonal big game habitat, and migration corridors used by big game and bird species.

Adopted September , 2020

Marvin McDaniel, Chair

Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission