House Passes Bill to Protect Open Spaces

DENVER, CO - The House today passed HB26-1230, which would extend conservation efforts to support rural economies and protect open spaces. HB26-1230 passed by a vote of 58-7.

“The Conservation Easement Tax Credit benefits Colorado farmers and ranchers, protects wildlife habitats and promotes rural resiliency,” said Rep. Matt Martinez, D-Monte Vista, sponsor of HB26-1230. “Our legislation extends this tax credit so we can continue to uplift the hardworking people in rural Colorado and protect our water and wildlife.”

“This tax credit is a powerful tool in protecting rural land, making open spaces more accessible and protecting Colorado’s great outdoors,” said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, sponsor of HB26-1230. “With climate change ramping up droughts and wildfires, it is important that we do everything we can to protect our wildlife and ecosystems. By extending the Conservation Easement Tax Credit, we are supporting rural communities and economies while helping Colorado meet its climate goals.”

HB26-1230 would extend the Conservation Easement Tax Credit through state income tax year 2036.

Originally created in 2000, the Conservation Easement Tax Credit is a state income tax credit for land owners who donate their land to protect and preserve land for natural habitat, open space, agriculture, outdoor recreation and education. The legislature expanded the tax credit in 2024 to benefit smaller or family-operated farms, ranches and private land stewards to meet the backlog of projects and the current demand for credits.

A 2024 report from Colorado State University found that for every dollar invested in the Conservation Easement Tax Credit program, the public benefits between $31 and $49.