S1 E12 – Colorado – Andy Holland (CPW) and Marty Holmes (MDF)
The Mule Deer Foundation is the only conservation group in…
Episode 12 – Colorado Mule Deer – Marty Holmes and Andy Holland
This week, Steve and Jodi talk about Colorado’s mule deer with Marty Holmes, MDF’s Colorado regional director, and Andy Holland, Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s big game manager. Andy talks about how herd management planning and how that affects the limited license draw, while Marty talks about how important it is for hunters to be knowledgeable about and engaged in this process. With one of the fastest growing populations in the country, wildlife conservation and the future of hunting in Colorado is a challenge. Marty describes some of the key committees he participates on within the state on issues like conservation funding, balancing conservation and recreation, wildlife/transportation management to improve highway safety and wildlife corridors, and more. They also talk about the “Future Generations” act to increase revenue for Colorado Parks and Wildlife – since the interview was done at the Western Hunting & Conservation Expo, that legislation was signed into law by Governor Hickenlooper and will help with the long-term sustainability of the agency. Finally, we talk about new shed hunting regulations that are going into effect to reduce disturbance of wintering animals.
The Mule Deer Foundation is the only conservation group in North America dedicated to restoring, improving and protecting mule deer and black-tailed deer and their habitat, with a focus on science and program efficiency. MDF is a strong voice for hunters in access, wildlife management and conservation policy issues. MDF acknowledges regulated hunting as a viable management component and is committed to recruitment and retention of youth into the shooting sports and conservation. Get involved in your state or become a member at www.muledeer.org or call 1-888-375-3337.