Colorado Parks and Wildlife created a successful outreach campaign about the importance of hunters called Hug a Hunter. A recent post highlights five things about hunting and fishing that boost wildlife and wildlife habitat in Colorado.
- Native Species Protection
Revenue generated by sportsmen supports all of our wildlife management efforts. This allows Colorado to protect and reintroduce native species like Rocky Mountain elk.
- Population Management
Without hunting and fishing, the populations of the animal species in Colorado would expand beyond their natural habitats, placing humans and wildlife at a greater risk of potentially dangerous interactions. Additionally, overpopulation makes the wildlife more prone to starvation and other health problems. Sportsmen keep the herds under control for optimal health and sustainability.
- Resource Conservation
The revenue generated by hunting and fishing licenses helps protect, conserve and beautify Colorado’s 66 million acres of land. The funds allow for the safeguarding of waterways, conservation of forests and open spaces, and the maintenance of the quality of rivers and wildlife habitats.
- Habitat Enhancement
Funds generated through hunting and fishing provide much-needed resources to restore and protect wildlife habitats that support healthy native animal populations. Some of the funds are also used to operate fish hatcheries that maintain healthy stock in rivers and lakes.
- Sustain and Support Jobs
Hunting and fishing sustain and support 27,000 jobs in Colorado, and generate $2.8 billion in the state’s economy — an economic contribution that’s on par with the ski industry. The revenue generated from hunting and fishing licenses go toward the conservation of Colorado’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Hunting is also one of the only recreational activities that benefit every county in the state, including rural communities that rely heavily on the business generated during hunting and fishing season.
(Video source: Colorado Parks and Wildlife)