Bipartisan Martinez Bill to Support Hunting, Fishing and Wildlife Conservation Becomes Law

EMPIRE, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed a bipartisan bill sponsored by Representative Matthew Martinez into law to make the Wildlife Habitat Stamp Program permanent. 

“Habitat Stamps have funded conservation programs across Colorado to protect wildlife, fisheries and critical ecosystems so future generations can hunt, fish and enjoy our beautiful state,” said Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista. “Whether you’re coming from out-of-state or live right here in Colorado, everyone who hunts and fishes knows we have some of the best wildlife areas in the world, and we’re proud to keep them that way. Wildlife conservation ensures that hunting and angling can contribute to our rural economies for many years to come and protects our way of life.”

The Wildlife Habitat Stamp Program offers funding opportunities for landowners, local governments and conservation nonprofits that protect wildlife habitats, provide wildlife-related recreational access or sell their property to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The program, which is funded by hunting and fishing licenses, is currently set to sunset on July 1, 2027. SB25-049, also sponsored by Assistant Minority Leader Ty Winter, continues the Wildlife Habitat Stamp Program indefinitely.

With support from Great Outdoors Colorado and federal funding, the program has secured over 290,000 acres of conservation easements and over 146,000 acres of public access.