For hunters in the West, the future of public lands is about preserving access to the places we hunt, fish, and pass down to the next generation. The latest Conservation in the West Poll, released by Colorado College’s State of the Rockies Project, shows that a growing number of Westerners support conservation efforts to protect these landscapes.
This year’s poll, the 15th annual survey of voters across eight Mountain West states—Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming—found that 72% of respondents want elected officials to prioritize clean water, wildlife habitat, and public access over expanding energy development. This is the strongest preference for conservation recorded in the poll’s history. (Source: State of the Rockies Project)
Public Land Protections Remain a Priority
The findings highlight that public land protections are widely supported, with 89% of voters opposing reductions in national monument designations. Similarly, 65% oppose transferring national public lands to state control, a number that has increased over time. (Source: State of the Rockies Poll)
For hunters, this is important. Public lands provide access to a wide range of hunting opportunities, and any changes in management could impact our ability to enjoy them. Maintaining protections ensures that these areas remain open for generations to come.
72% of respondents want elected officials to prioritize clean water, wildlife habitat, and public access
Supporting Healthy Habitats for Hunting and Wildlife
Hunters understand that a well-managed ecosystem means better game populations. This year’s poll found that Westerners continue to be concerned about habitat loss, wildlife declines, and pollution.
Key findings include:
- 92% support requiring oil and gas companies to cover the full cost of land restoration after drilling.
- 88% support updated technology to prevent methane leaks during oil and gas extraction.
- 84% favor maintaining or increasing royalty rates that energy companies pay for drilling on public lands.
Western voters are supportive of conservation initiatives that protect the land, water, and wildlife that hunters depend on. These efforts help maintain sustainable populations and ensure access to quality hunting opportunities. (Source: Conservation in the West Poll 2025)
Managing Public Lands with Expertise
An overwhelming 87% of respondents prefer that decisions about public lands be made by career professionals—scientists, rangers, and wildlife experts. This reflects a broad recognition that sound management practices are essential for maintaining healthy landscapes and wildlife populations.
Conservation is Essential for Hunting’s Future
For those of us who spend time tracking game or waiting in a tree stand, conservation isn’t just an idea—it’s essential to our way of life. This poll reaffirms that Westerners, including hunters, value the lands we rely on and want them protected for future generations.
Ensuring that our public lands remain open, well-managed, and accessible benefits everyone who enjoys the outdoors. By staying informed and engaged, we can help maintain these incredible hunting opportunities for years to come.
For more information on public hunting lands, regulations, and conservation updates, visit Hunterizer.com. Hunterizer helps hunters navigate public land opportunities, track hunting seasons, and stay updated on changing regulations, ensuring reliable access to essential hunting information.
