Amendment 83 has failed in Colorado, but the fight over the future of hunting, fishing, and science-based wildlife management is far from over.

In this post-election episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates breaks down the defeat of Amendment 83, what the election results mean for Colorado's hunting community, and why the next several months could be critical for the future of wildlife management in the state.

Following the November election and the latest Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting, Dan examines the growing debate over science-based wildlife management, the influence of animal rights organizations, and the increasing divide between hunting opportunities and wildlife policy.

The conversation goes beyond Amendment 83. Dan discusses proposed restrictions on electronic calls for fur-bearing animals, lead ammunition, prairie dog management, fur-bearer harvest limits, and the potential consequences of decisions being made by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission.

He also explores the relationship between public and private lands, the role of hunters and anglers in funding conservation, and why wildlife management cannot simply be left to chance.

WHAT WE COVER:

• Why Amendment 83 failed and what the campaign revealed.
• The opposition messaging surrounding traditional hunting and trapping methods.
• The importance of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.
• Concerns surrounding the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission.
• Proposed restrictions on electronic calling devices and lead ammunition.
• The ongoing debate over prairie dogs and fur-bearer management.
• How public-land restrictions can create additional challenges for private landowners.
• Why wildlife management requires science, data, and professional expertise.
• What hunters and conservationists should watch for heading into 2027.
• Why getting involved in the CPW commission and legislative process matters.

The defeat of Amendment 83 was a setback, not the end of the fight. The future of hunting and fishing in Colorado will depend on an engaged sporting community willing to understand the issues, participate in the process, and stand up for responsible wildlife management.

GET INVOLVED. SAVE THE HUNT.

Learn more about Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management:
https://SaveTheHuntColorado.com

Participate in Colorado Parks and Wildlife public comment opportunities:
https://engagecpw.org

Subscribe to Through the Gates for conversations about hunting, conservation, wildlife management, and the people working to protect the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.

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