Big Game HuntingTo Limit or Not To Limit: Colorado Grapples With Elk Hunting License...

To Limit or Not To Limit: Colorado Grapples With Elk Hunting License Decisions

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is mulling over the possibility of imposing restrictions on the availability of over-the-counter (OTC) rifle and archery elk licenses.

To better understand public sentiment, a survey was sent to 6,000 elk hunters who had received an elk license in the state in either 2018 or 2022. The results of this survey are set to be presented to the Parks and Wildlife Commission in March.

The agency is weighing various options, including the limitation or complete removal of nonresident OTC licenses. However, any change from the status quo could lead to potential revenue losses between $2 million and $14.6 million.

The proposal has sparked a debate among hunters and organizations. Some support preserving OTC licenses for residents only, arguing that nonresident participation leads to overcrowding. On the other hand, Tim Holt, owner of Jerry’s Outdoor Sports, expressed concerns that eliminating nonresident OTC licenses would negatively affect both the hunting season and the local economy.

Even if you weren’t selected for the survey, your opinion still matters. You can share your thoughts on the matter through the engagecpw.org/big-game-season-structure website.

Now that you’ve got the gist of it, what do you think? Should Colorado limit elk hunting licenses, or should they remain as they are? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook by visiting the Hunting Magazine!

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