Home / Environment / Colorado Commission Votes to Consider Fur Sale Ban
Colorado Commission Votes to Consider Fur Sale Ban
5 Mar
Summary
- Colorado commission voted to advance a proposed fur ban to rulemaking.
- The decision followed a contentious meeting with divided public opinion.
- Supporters cite biodiversity crisis; opponents emphasize wildlife management.
A significant portion of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission's March meeting was dominated by a debate over a citizen petition to prohibit the sale of certain wild animal furs. The commission ultimately voted 6-4 to move the proposed ban into the rulemaking process, a decision met with mixed reactions from the audience.
Supporters of the petition, including the Center for Biological Diversity, view this as a win, aiming to modernize wildlife management in light of biodiversity and climate crises. They argue that commercial markets for furbearers, like fox and beaver, should be eliminated, aligning with regulations for big game species.
Opponents, such as Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management and the Colorado Trappers and Predator Hunters Association, expressed disappointment. They contend that current science-based management is effective and that the petition overlooks livelihoods dependent on the fur industry, as well as existing state laws.
The rulemaking phase will now address concerns raised by CPW staff regarding enforcement and potential conflicts with landowner rights, while aiming to align regulations with the petition's intent for better wildlife conservation.
