Colorado's New Strategy Aims for Resilient Outdoors and Recreation
Colorado Launches Innovative Outdoors Strategy for the Future
A collaborative vision for conservation, outdoor recreation, and climate resilience ensures an enduring future for generations to come.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis, along with several key partners from state conservation and climate resilience programs, has officially announced the launch of Colorado's Outdoors Strategy. This statewide initiative aims to create an action framework supporting the preservation of Colorado's unique outdoor spaces for future generations.
Unveiled at the Partners in the Outdoors Conference, this Strategy is recognized as one of the first of its kind across the United States. It integrates conservation, outdoor recreation, and climate resilience into a cohesive plan designed to align efforts and funding. Colorado's outdoor legacy is rich, and the Strategy is set to enhance the state’s ability to address the needs of its natural environments and communities.
"Coloradans and tourists alike cherish our stunning landscapes, which are central to what makes our state extraordinary," said Governor Polis. He emphasized that the wellbeing of wildlife, biodiversity, agriculture, and the economy relies on flourishing ecosystems and vibrant outdoor experiences. However, Colorado’s wild areas are under pressure from growing populations, climate change, and other environmental challenges. The Strategy provides a structured approach to tackle these pressing issues effectively.
Outdoor recreation plays a dominant role in the lives of residents, with a remarkable 96% participating in outdoor activities yearly. Furthermore, in 2022 alone, 90 million visitors explored the state’s diverse landscapes. With over 960 wildlife species and a projected population surge, this Strategy is pivotal in balancing conservation efforts with recreational activities.
Colorado's Outdoors Strategy focuses on three ambitious goals:
- Climate-Resilient Conservation and Restoration: This involves restoring lands and waters to support wildlife and maintain biodiversity while ensuring habitats are connected and resilient.
- Exceptional and Sustainable Outdoor Recreation: The aim is to provide a variety of accessible and inclusive outdoor experiences, with stewardship practices that enhance benefits for communities and preserve landscapes.
- Coordinated Planning and Funding: This goal focuses on interdisciplinary planning backed by consistent funding, inclusivity, and driving meaningful environmental action.
Jeff Davis, Director of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, remarked, "The Strategy supports all who love the outdoors to unite for climate-resilient conservation and exceptional outdoor opportunities. Everyone can use the Strategy's vision and goals as guiding principles in championing Colorado's natural treasures."
The Strategy is enlivened through nine objectives and thirty-three partner actions, which are supported by a Resource Hub. This digital platform provides free online access to valuable data, mapping tools, and other resources vital to conservation and recreation planning. Currently, it features:
- An interactive data dashboard with essential information for stakeholders.
- A searchable plan library for conservation and recreation initiatives.
- Guidance for effective planning in outdoor conservation.
- A statewide framework for tribal collaboration.
- Resources focusing on equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Advanced mapping tools through Colorado's Conservation Data Explorer (CODEX).
The creation of the Strategy and Resource Hub involved yearlong collaboration among various organizations and individuals, including government entities, Tribal Nations, landowners, and local communities. These partnerships are key in achieving the Strategy's ambitious goals.
Jackie Miller, Executive Director of Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), remarked, "Our outdoor champions are demonstrating remarkable collaboration. This Strategy showcases our unity in vision and commitment to protecting Colorado's landscapes while enriching the lives of our communities. We have already made significant strides, and this is just the beginning."
Moving into the future, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will oversee the implementation of the Colorado's Outdoors Strategy, working alongside partners like GOCO and the Department of Natural Resources to ensure a successful rollout.
For those interested in exploring more about Colorado's Outdoors Strategy, the Resource Hub is accessible online, offering all the necessary tools and information to engage with and support the state’s conservation efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Colorado's Outdoors Strategy?
Colorado's Outdoors Strategy is a statewide initiative that aims to integrate conservation, outdoor recreation, and climate resilience into a cohesive plan for the state.
Who led the development of this Strategy?
The Strategy was led by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in collaboration with various government and community partners.
What are the main goals of the Strategy?
The main goals include enhancing climate-resilient conservation, providing sustainable outdoor recreation options, and implementing coordinated planning with assured funding.
How can the public engage with the Resource Hub?
The Resource Hub offers free access to essential tools, data, and resources related to conservation and outdoor activities, available for public use.
What impact will this Strategy have on Colorado's communities?
The Strategy is expected to enhance the health of ecosystems, improve outdoor experiences for residents and visitors, and support community well-being through better planning and conservation efforts.
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