Notice of Support
Pursuant to action taken by the Board at the January 22, 2026, Special Board Meeting, the Southwestern Water Conservation District has elected to monitor and support the following bills introduced before the Colorado State Legislature.
The Colorado Outdoor Opportunities Act - HB26-1008 (Monitor)
Bill Summary:
The bill requires the division of parks and wildlife (division) in the department of natural resources to expand the division's capacity for outdoor recreation coordination, planning, and management and take a leading role in state-level coordination, strategic planning, and implementation of Colorado's outdoors strategy. The division is directed to, among other things, engage with relevant partners, stakeholders, and agencies to coordinate and incorporate wildlife, conservation, recreation, and climate-resilience considerations across agency planning and decision-making processes.
In addition, the division is required to support, in consultation with relevant entities, the planning, development, and maintenance of outdoor recreation infrastructure to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities while protecting private property rights, wildlife, and natural resources.
The bill also requires the division to create, and update at least annually, integrated regional outdoor recreation and conservation planning reports to inform division awareness and operational decision-making.
Water Projects Eligibility Lists - SJR26-001 (Support)
Bill Summary:
Concerning approval of water project revolving fund eligibility lists administered by the Colorado Water Resources and Power Development Authority.