Bill > HB1008

This bill, the Colorado Outdoor Opportunities Act, directs the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife (DPW) to enhance its role in coordinating, planning, and managing outdoor recreation across the state, aligning with Colorado's Outdoors Strategy, which is a collaborative vision for conservation, outdoor recreation, and climate resilience. The DPW will work with various partners, including state and federal agencies, tribal governments, local communities, private landowners, and stakeholders representing diverse interests like conservation, agriculture, and wildlife, to integrate considerations for wildlife, conservation, recreation, and climate resilience into all planning and decision-making processes. The bill also mandates the DPW to support the development and upkeep of outdoor recreation infrastructure to improve opportunities while safeguarding private property rights, wildlife, and natural resources, and requires the creation of integrated regional outdoor recreation and conservation planning reports, updated annually, to inform the division's awareness and operations. Important terms defined include "Accessible Experiences," which means outdoor recreation opportunities that reduce barriers to participation for various groups, and "Exceptional and Sustainable Outdoor Recreation," referring to enjoyable, inclusive, and accessible experiences that respect the long-term health of natural resources and communities. The act also specifies funding for the DPW to implement these expanded duties.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/HB26-1008