Colorado is rapidly losing its most iconic asset: nature

Nearly one-third of Colorado's lands have already been altered by human development - placing Colorado at the highest percentage of natural areas already lost to development among Western 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 the West. 

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.

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.

Join WRA in supporting more funding for Colorado's most iconic landscapes and wildlife!