Proposed ballot measure would halt gray wolf reintroduction program
A draft ballot measure filed in Colorado would halt the reintroduction of gray wolves by repealing state statute.
Gray wolf reintroduction began in December 2023, with 10 wolves relocated from Oregon. The reintroduction came after Colorado voters – mostly along the state’s more populated Front Range – in 2020 narrowly approved a ballot measure requiring a reintroduction plan for wolves west of the Continental Divide.
A group called Colorado Advocates for Smart Wolf Policy last Friday filed the draft ballot measure with the Legislative Council Staff to get it on the 2026 election ballot.
© Svanblar iStock-146069215
The group cites ongoing discontent from ranchers and farmers who have had to deal with livestock depredations since the reintroductions. Some groups have petitioned state wildlife managers to delay more reintroductions.
“Supporters of the campaign believe that the current law is not adequately protecting the interests of Colorado residents and their way of life,” Colorado Advocates for Smart Wolf Policy wrote in a blog post on its website. “By repealing the law, they hope to restore the balance between conservation efforts and the sustainability of local industries.”
“This initiative aims to give a voice to those who have been negatively impacted by the presence of wolves and to ensure that their concerns are heard and addressed,” the post added.
LCS is scheduled to review the draft measure January 17. After the review and comment meeting, the proposal must be filed with the secretary of state’s office, then the Title Board must set a title before petitions can be circulated to get the measure on the ballot.
