Colorado Voters Approve Proposition to Introduce Wolves

In one of several very close votes on election night, voters in Colorado narrowly approved a measure to introduce wolves into the state.

Garnering 50.6% of the vote, Proposition 114 directs wildlife managers in Colorado to reintroduce gray wolves by 2024. The vote happened less than a week after the Trump Administration decided to remove gray wolves from the Endangered Species List.

The Colorado Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) vehemently opposed the introduces of wolves and said such a proposition should not have been decided by the voters.

“While very disheartened with the passage of Proposition 114 and also fearful of what implications forced wolf introduction will have on Colorado, CCA remains committed to ensuring real science, and actual Coloradans, make decisions associated with our state’s wildlife. While voters spoke by passing Proposition 114, we still believe that Coloradans want responsible wildlife management, not unbridled wolf introduction, at all costs. CCA will recommit to this as efforts begin to unfold to implement Proposition 114.” said Janie VanWinkle, CCA’s President.

In a press release the CCA said that when voters were presented with verifiable information—like Colorado Parks and Wildlife rejecting wolf introduction four separate times—their support quickly eroded with just barely over half of the votes supporting the measure. The CCA says the concerns of Colorado voters must be addressed through the implementation of Proposition 114:

• Protect Colorado’s cherished wildlife, natural habitats and cultural heritage;
• Prepare Colorado for the realities of introducing a new apex predator;
• Ensure all parties who will directly be impacted have a seat at the table
• Uphold the rights of livestock producers to defend their livelihoods; and
• Guarantee comprehensive wolf management efforts.

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Colorado Cattlemen’s/Northern Ag Network