DENVER ~ In a recent announcement, Governor Polis and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) revealed the first round of wildlife and habitat projects funded through Senate Bill 24-230. This bill, which was created to mitigate the adverse impacts of oil and gas operations on wildlife and habitats, introduced new production fees on oil and gas development.

The initial allocation of SB24-230 revenue will go towards seven initiatives aimed at addressing the effects of habitat fragmentation, climate change, and ecosystem degradation. These projects were carefully selected by CPW's Executive Management Team to make immediate use of the funds generated from oil and gas production.

Governor Polis emphasized the importance of protecting Colorado's iconic outdoor spaces, recreation opportunities, and wildlife viewing. He stated that greenhouse gas emissions have a direct impact on the environment and all who call Colorado home. By investing in protecting habitats for Colorado's wildlife, they are not only decreasing their carbon footprint but also preserving native species for future generations.

CPW Director Laura Clellan also highlighted the significance of SB24-230 in providing a new tool to directly invest in the health of Colorado's wildlife and habitat. She explained that these initial projects demonstrate how funding from oil and gas operations can help restore habitats, improve ecosystem resilience, and support wildlife across the state.

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Senate Bill 24-230 established two fees on oil and gas production in Colorado - one administered by the Clean Transit Enterprise and the other by CPW to support wildlife and land remediation. The legislation recognizes that oil and gas development is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions and habitat degradation. Therefore, it directs new investments towards mitigating these impacts and strengthening wildlife conservation efforts.

Under this law, CPW Director has been authorized to set production fees within statutory ranges based on quarterly oil and gas spot prices published by the Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission. The initial CPW production fee was established in October 2025, generating $5,477,765 in revenue from oil and gas production between July 1 and Sept. 30, 2025.

To immediately put this new revenue to work, CPW's Executive Management Team identified seven projects and programs for early investment during fiscal year 2026. These include the acquisition of property at Barr Lake State Park, implementation of the Beaver Restoration Program, operating increases for park pollinator gardens and wildlife movement coordination, hosting and maintenance for Wildlife TRACKER, translocation of Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse, and budget increase for water acquisitions.

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Together, these projects will provide remediation services such as habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, species conservation, and strategic land and water protection efforts across Colorado. CPW will continue to collaborate with industry partners, conservation organizations, and local communities to ensure that funds generated through SB24-230 are invested in projects that deliver measurable remediation services to mitigate the impacts of oil and gas operations.

Dan Haley, Executive Director of Coloradans for Responsible Energy Development, expressed his support for responsible oil and natural gas production that can help fund projects like these. He believes that protecting wildlife and habitats is a win for all of Colorado.

Tarn Udall, senior attorney at Western Resource Advocates also commended CPW's use of the first tranche of funds from SB24-230. She stated that the science is clear - climate change is negatively impacting Colorado's wildlife and ecosystems. Therefore, it is rewarding to see CPW taking action to protect these resources.

CPW plans to evaluate and announce additional projects funded through this program as more revenue is collected in the future. With these efforts in place, Colorado hopes to mitigate the impacts of oil and gas operations on its precious wildlife and habitats while also addressing climate change concerns.

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