In the great state of Colorado, where the populace apparently believes apex predators are just misunderstood furry friends, a new ballot measure is being pitched to repeal the disastrous wolf reintroduction program. This brainchild of Boulder latte enthusiasts narrowly passed in 2020, thanks to a razor-thin margin of totally informed voters (50.9% versus 49.1%).
What’s the problem, you ask? Well, it turns out wolves don’t just frolic in the snow and howl at the moon. Who could’ve guessed? Instead, they’ve been treating rancher livestock like an all-you-can-eat buffet. Since their reintroduction, taxpayers have footed the bill for what is essentially a state-funded meat delivery service for wolves, with ranchers filing losses totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The fine folks behind this repeal argue that wolves have ravaged rural livelihoods, hiked grocery prices, and disrupted the delicate balance of “Western heritage.” Translation: Colorado is now a “Farm to Fangs” hotspot, where every heifer and lamb lives in mortal fear of becoming a wolf snack.
Here’s the kicker: Governor Polis and his husband were cheerleaders for this scheme, perhaps imagining the wolves would align themselves with Colorado’s tourism board instead of their primal instincts. Reality check: two of the imported wolves have become a murderous power couple, spawning wolf pups and an agricultural massacre. The male was eventually captured and died (mysteriously) after sustaining “puncture wounds,” which some suspect weren’t exactly accidental.
So, the moral of the story? Maybe leave wildlife management to biologists instead of coffee-shop conservationists. The West was wild long before ballot measures started playing god.
The press release from the organization behind this noble attempt is cut-n-pasted below. I have told them I will assist in any way possible. If you believe in supporting and protecting Colorado agriculturalists and leaving biology to actual biologists, I believe you should do the same.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Protect Colorado’s Legacy: Join the Fight to Repeal the Wolf Reintroduction Law
Colorado Springs, CO — January 3, 2025 — Colorado Advocates for Smart Wolf Policy took the first step today to repeal the 2020 “reintroduction and management of gray wolves law” by submitting a draft statutory proposition for the 2026 General Election ballot to the Colorado Legislative Council.
Designated representatives for the proposition are Stan VanderWerf of El Paso County and Spencer Thomas of Garfield County.
Our heritage and our people are in danger in Colorado today. In 2020, the wolf reintroduction law passed in only two of Colorado’s 64 counties without fully considering its far-reaching impacts. And since gray wolves were reintroduced to Colorado in December 2023, taxpayers have paid for the privilege of watching these apex predators tear into our agricultural economy and ecosystem.
Forcibly reintroduced wolves have harassed our ranchers, food producers, and local communities. They have migrated beyond the region of their introduction-and ever closer to population centers. That’s why Colorado Advocates for Safe Wolf Policy is fighting to repeal this flawed law.
Wolves aren’t just reshaping our landscapes. they disrupt the delicate balance that has defined our Western way of life for generations. This reintroduction law was a mistake that fundamentally impacts every aspect of our lives. From rising grocery prices to threats to our food security, this law is impacting everyone.
Statewide Implications: Why This Matters to All Coloradans
The Colorado Advocates for Safe Wolf Policy are calling on all Coloradans to help repeal this flawed legislation. This is not just a rural issue—it’s a statewide challenge that threatens our Western way of life, our economy, and our food security.
Key Reasons to Repeal the Wolf Reintroduction Law
- Economic Harm: Colorado’s ranchers and livestock producers—the backbone of rural communities—are suffering devastating financial losses from wolf predation.
- Rising Grocery Prices: Increased costs for ranchers translate to higher grocery prices, impacting every household.
- Threats to Food Security: Wolves pose a risk to sustainable, local food production, making communities more dependent on distant suppliers.
- Preserving the Farm-to-Table Movement: Local ranchers provide fresh, sustainable food options. Without them, corporate chains and distant suppliers will dominate the market.
- Protecting Western Heritage: The West has long symbolized independence, resilience, and stewardship of the land. This legacy must be preserved for future generations.
Take Action to Protect Colorado’s Future
The Colorado Advocates for Safe Wolf Policy remain committed to safeguarding livelihoods, promoting balanced wildlife management, and preserving the traditions that make our state unique. But we can’t do it alone.
Here’s how you can get involved:
- Donate: Contributions of any amount make a significant difference in fueling this effort. Every dollar helps us build momentum.
- Send contributions to: Colorado Advocates for Safe Wolf Policy, PO Box 49336, Colorado Springs, CO 80949
- Volunteer: Join the movement by collecting signatures, spreading the message, and organizing community events.
- Share the Message: Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors. Raising awareness is key to rallying support across Colorado.
Preserve Colorado’s Legacy
The wolf reintroduction law threatens the values that define Colorado: fairness, resilience, and sustainability. Now is the time to stand together to secure a future where wildlife policies support balance, protect our communities, and uphold the traditions of the West.
To learn more and join the cause, visit Home | Smartwolfpolicyco or contact Patrick Davis, [email protected].
About Colorado Advocates for Safe Wolf Policy:
Colorado Advocates for Smart Wolf Policy is a grassroots organization dedicated to promoting responsible wildlife management, protecting local economies, and preserving Colorado’s Western heritage.
Media Contact:
Patrick Davis
Campaign Manager
Colorado Advocates for Smart Wolf Policy
202-251-4439
[email protected]
