By Rocky Mountain Voice
A resolution has been passed by the Colorado Wildlife Employees Protective Association (CWEPA) supporting science-based wildlife conservation aligned with the mission of Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the principles of wildlife conservation in North America, a press release received by Rocky Mountain Voice reads.
Founded in 1947, CWEPA includes a membership estimated at 200 wildlife officers, biologists, wildlife technicians, aquatics staff, administrative assistants and education and outreach personnel “deeply committed to the conservation and management of Colorado’s diverse wildlife resources,” the press release reads. The resolution serves to reaffirm the mission to advance the ability of employees to safeguard wildlife resources of Colorado for the benefit of all residents and visitors, the press release indicates.
“Science-based wildlife management is the foundation of everything we do,” CWEPA President Casey Westbrook said in a statement. “Colorado’s wildlife story is written because of our membership, and those who have come before us, have devoted our careers to following the best available research and proven wildlife management strategies. Keeping management authority with wildlife managers is key to protecting Colorado’s wildlife for future generations.”
CWEPA members have engaged in and ensured the continuation of 125 years of professional wildlife management, aimed at perpetuating both game and nongame species and fostering public appreciation for Colorado’s unique wildlife, the press release reads.
The resolution also recognizes the roles of the Colorado legislature and the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission in providing a fair and equitable process for the public to engage in wildlife management decisions, the press release reads, including the contributions of hunting and fishing to wildlife management efforts alongside other sustainable practices guided by multiple-use management principles.
“CWEPA members are united in their belief that Colorado’s wildlife is best protected, managed and enhanced by the highly skilled wildlife management professionals employed by the state, who follow a science-driven approach to their work,” the press release reads.
Visit coloradowepa.org for more detail on the CWEPA.