Advocating for Responsible Wildlife Management in Colorado: Insights from The Broadside Podcast with CRWM

07/2024

Jul 04, 2024

🕒 3 mins

On June 17, 2024, Dan Gates of CRWM joins Andy and Kelsi to engaged in an insightful discussion on The Broadside Podcast, focusing on the pressing issues and strategies in advocating for responsible wildlife management in Colorado. As leaders of their respective organizations, they shared their experiences, challenges, and plans to combat misinformation and opposition from animal activists.

The Role of Advocacy in Wildlife Management

Dan Gates, the Executive Director of Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management (CRWM) and President of the Colorado Trappers and Predator Hunters Association, emphasized the crucial role of advocacy in wildlife management. He highlighted the challenges posed by a lack of understanding and respect for science and historical data among animal activists. Gates stressed that CRWM fills a critical gap left by other organizations, particularly in political advocacy, aiming to broaden their support base to address the broken model in wildlife conservation in Colorado.

Promoting Responsible Wildlife Management

Gates and his team have been tirelessly promoting responsible wildlife management, facing significant challenges in educating the public about various issues. Kelsey from the Coalition in Washington acknowledged the growing awareness and support for their cause. However, Gates expressed concerns over the proposed definition of trophy hunting in Colorado and its potential negative impact on science-based wildlife management across North America. The conversation also touched on the threat posed by anti-hunting extremists and the need for a robust campaign to counter their efforts.

Strategies for Policy Influence and Species Protection

The discussion delved into the complexities and strategies for influencing policy and protecting specific species. Gates emphasized the importance of ballot initiatives and suggested focusing on vulnerable areas like New Mexico, believing that a victory there could boost morale and make it more challenging for the opposition to recover. Andy, a member of the Conservation Coalition of Washington, sought advice on improving their organization’s effectiveness. Gates recommended a quick decision-making body, financial resources, and immediate action, citing CRWM’s successful campaign against a ballot initiative.

Standing Up for Hunters’ Rights

Both Gates and Kelsey emphasized the importance of strategic action in defending hunters’ rights. They likened the struggle to a sports game, where taking the initiative and fighting back is crucial. Small victories were highlighted as essential for building momentum and morale. Engaging more people in the community and being proactive in defending rights were deemed necessary steps.

Community Engagement and Outreach

Gates stressed the importance of community engagement and comprehensive outreach to raise awareness about their cause. He emphasized the need for funding, involving sportsmen and women, and reaching out to a diverse audience. The conversation underscored the significance of addressing the ideology of history, tradition, and heritage in their communication strategy. Andy and Kelsey agreed on the necessity of a diverse approach to messaging and proactive promotion of their interests.

Successful Raffle and Funding Efforts

The podcast also highlighted a recent successful raffle organized by the Colorado chapter of the Safari Club International (SCI), which raised significant funds for their campaign to save hunting from the proposed ballot initiative. Gates appreciated the support and donations from various sponsors and encouraged continued funding and support for their ongoing efforts.

Addressing Non-Resident Hunting License Restrictions

Gates and Andy discussed the new restrictions on non-resident hunting licenses in Colorado and their potential negative impacts. Gates suggested redirecting some of the affected funding towards organizations supporting natural resource management and extending this message to other states. Despite facing a well-organized opposition, Gates expressed confidence in their ability to overcome the challenges.

Looking Forward

The Broadside Podcast meeting concluded with a sense of optimism and motivation. Gates and Andy acknowledged the challenges faced and appreciated each other’s efforts and support. They emphasized the importance of community engagement, strategic action, and continuous support to advocate for responsible wildlife management and defend hunting rights.

For more information and to support their cause, visit savethehunt.colorado.com.

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