The Colorado Division of Wildlife is expected to realize a $6.7 million boost from a fee bill that passed in the Colorado legislature.
The controversial measure, HB 1266, was approved in conference committee along with senate amendments that removed several of the original components and approximately $2 million in revenue. Changes in the various licenses costs will be effective in 2006.
Most notably, the revised bill cut in half, to $5, the cost of an inaugural habitat stamp earmarked for acquisition and improvement of hunting and fishing properties.
It also exempts seniors 65 and older from both stamp fees and the purchase of a fishing license. Youth under 19 also are exempt from buying a habitat stamp.
The increases, first in 13 years for Colorado residents, cover all fishing, small- and big-game licenses, as well as fishing and small-game fees for nonresidents. Nonresident big-game costs were increased in 2001.
Raises generally range from 33 to 50 percent for most hunting and fishing licenses. A separate component of the bill adds 75 cents to the cost of each license for a public wildlife education fund.
Those who use state wildlife areas but do not purchase hunting or fishing licenses are required to pay $10 for a habitat stamp. The bill requires 60 percent of the stamp income to be spent on big game winter range and migration corridors.
– Charlie Meyers
