Measure would invest existing sporting goods sales tax revenue in wildfire prevention, healthy watersheds, conservation, and outdoor recreation
DENVER, Colo. - Trout Unlimited and Colorado Trout Unlimited today announced its support for Colorado Proposition 137, a statewide ballot measure that would dedicate a portion of existing sales tax revenue from sporting goods and equipment to protecting Colorado’s water, forests, wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
For Trout Unlimited, one of the most important provisions of Proposition 137 is its investment in wildfire risk reduction and watershed health. Severe wildfires can have lasting impacts on rivers and drinking water supplies, damaging stream habitat, increasing erosion and sediment, and affecting communities far downstream.
“Healthy rivers start with healthy watersheds,” said David Nickum, Executive Director with Colorado Trout Unlimited. “Colorado Proposition 137 would provide important resources to reduce wildfire risks, restore forests and watersheds, protect habitat, and help ensure Colorado’s rivers and streams remain healthy for fish, wildlife, and communities.”
Proposition 137 would allow Colorado to retain and dedicate a portion of existing state sales tax revenue from sporting goods and equipment to conservation and outdoor programs. The measure does not increase the state sales tax rate.
Funding would support a range of efforts, including wildfire risk reduction, forest health and restoration, watershed protection, land and water conservation, wildlife habitat, state parks, outdoor education, and access to outdoor recreation.
Wildfire and watershed protection are closely connected in Colorado. The measure specifically directs resources toward programs that reduce wildfire risk while protecting water supplies and improving the long-term health of forests and watersheds.
“Whether you fish, hunt, hike, farm, or simply depend on clean water, healthy watersheds matter,” said Drew Peternell, Colorado State Director with Trout Unlimited. “Proposition 137 creates an opportunity to make a lasting investment in the lands and waters that define Colorado.”
Colorado Proposition 137 will appear on the statewide ballot for the November 3, 2026 general election.
About Trout Unlimited
Trout Unlimited is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams so future generations can experience the joy of wild and native trout and salmon. In Colorado, TU members, chapters, staff, and partners work across the state on watershed restoration, advocacy, education, and community-based conservation.
Media Contact:
Emily Olsen
Vice President, Rocky Mountains – Trout Unlimited
720-219-0682
