Governor Polis Visits Colorado’s Newest State Wildlife Area at Collard Ranch

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PARK COUNTY ~ PARK COUNTY - Colorado's newest State Wildlife Area at Collard Ranch was toured today by Governor Jared Polis, showcasing the state's commitment to protecting wildlife and increasing recreational opportunities for Coloradans. The 1,860-acre property, acquired by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in March 2024, is a pristine area that protects critical habitat and animal migration corridors.

During the tour, Governor Polis was joined by Pam Denahy, the chair of Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), Allen Law from Western Rivers Conservancy, and Heather Disney Dugan from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The group discussed the importance of preserving land for future generations to enjoy and how Collard Ranch SWA will enhance the Colorado way of life.

With five miles of access along Tarryall Creek, Collard Ranch offers fantastic recreational opportunities for hunters and anglers. It is home to a variety of wildlife including elk herds, pronghorn, raptors, beavers, bobcats, and coyotes. This makes it an important migration corridor and winter habitat range for these animals.

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Heather Disney Dugan, Deputy Director for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, expressed her gratitude for the acquisition of Collard Ranch. She explained that with development increasing and Colorado's population growing each day, opportunities for land with hunting and fishing access are shrinking. However, thanks to funding from Habitat Stamp and GOCO, CPW was able to make this purchase.

Mark Lamb, CPW Area Wildlife Manager also emphasized the importance of protecting wildlife migration corridors in order to maintain a thriving elk population in Colorado. He thanked all the partners involved in making this land acquisition possible.

The $12.15 Habitat Stamp is purchased by hunters and anglers in conjunction with their license fees. This funding played a crucial role in acquiring Collard Ranch as well as other wildlife areas managed by CPW.

GOCO Executive Director Jackie Miller highlighted the significance of this acquisition, stating that it will benefit both wildlife and people for generations to come. She also expressed pride in GOCO's contribution towards making it happen.

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Allen Law, Project Manager for Western Rivers Conservancy, also shared his excitement about the protection of Tarryall Creek and the opening of new fishing and hunting opportunities near the Front Range.

Governor Polis also visited Cline Ranch State Wildlife Area to view an active beaver dam and discuss stream restoration projects. He then toured the Park County Shooting Range to discuss partnerships that are vital for safe recreational shooting opportunities.

Collard Ranch SWA is expected to open to the public for hunting in October 2024 and fully open in Spring 2025. Those interested in recreating at this wildlife area will need to purchase a State Wildlife Area pass through CPW. It is important for sportspeople to check restrictions and reservation needs before visiting as regulations may differ in each SWA.

The media kit with drone footage and photos can be accessed through the provided link. With this new addition, CPW now manages over 350 wildlife areas dedicated to sportspeople, showcasing Colorado's commitment to preserving its natural resources for future generations.

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