[cobirds] Official Response from CPW About Use of State Wildlife Areas

Hello Fellow Birders,

I have received an official response from CPW concerning use of SWAs for birding, hiking, etc.  This came from their Communication Center in response to my inquiry about being allowed onto properties that do not allow fishing, if all I have is a fishing license.  I have pasted below what I believe to be the salient portion of their reply:

You are correct, a valid hunting or fishing license will be required for everyone 18 or older attempting to access any State Wildlife Area or State Trust Land leased by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, beginning July 1. This does not apply to State Parks. (SWA FAQ). 

Even if the property doesn't have fishing opportunities, a license is still required.

The rule change was adopted unanimously on April 30 by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission.

SWAs are intended for wildlife habitat and wildlife-related recreation (hunting and fishing). Unlike national forests or local government parks, SWAs are not “public lands” that provide for multi-use recreation. Most SWAs provide important resting, feeding, birthing, or breeding areas for Colorado wildlife. In that way, year ‘round outdoor recreation may have negative impacts on the wildlife populations in those areas. The license requirement is an effort to limit multi-use recreation on these properties, not encourage it. While hikers, photographers, birders, and others may in fact be recreating by watching wildlife, only those with a hunting or fishing license are contributing to the purchase and maintenance of these properties.

...I'm hoping this response from CPW answers everyone's questions and concerns about SWA access.

Keep Smilin',

Kevin Corwin, west Centennial, Arapahoe

Sent from my Remington Rand Typewriter via my Rotary Dial Wall Phone

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