As the dust settles on the recent election, Donald Trump’s return to the White House has set the stage for significant changes in federal land management policies. With Doug Burgum, the former governor of North Dakota known for his pro-energy stances, appointed as Interior Secretary, Colorado’s public lands face a future that could prioritize resource extraction over conservation.
For a state that thrives on outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship, understanding the potential impacts is crucial. Here’s an overview of how experts expect another 4-year Trump Administration may affect Colorado’s public lands.
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A Shift Toward Energy Development
During his first term, President Trump pursued an “energy dominance” agenda, opening millions of acres of federal land to drilling and mining. His administration reduced the size of national monuments, expedited lease sales, and relaxed environmental reviews. With his re-election, similar policies are expected to intensify.
Doug Burgum’s appointment signals a continued focus on energy development. Known for advocating oil and gas extraction in North Dakota, Burgum’s influence could lead to increased drilling activities on federal lands, including those in Colorado. According to Colorado Newsline, Project 2025—a policy blueprint supported by conservative groups—recommends repealing the Antiquities Act and rolling back protections on national monuments, potentially affecting areas like the Thompson Divide and the Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument.
Balancing Resource Extraction and Conservation
Proponents of expanded drilling argue that resource extraction can coexist with conservation efforts. They cite technological advancements and regulatory frameworks that aim to minimize environmental impacts while boosting economic growth. For instance, the energy sector contributes significantly to job creation and state revenues, which can fund public services and infrastructure projects.
However, past experiences in Colorado suggest a more complicated reality. The state has grappled with the aftermath of abandoned wells and degraded landscapes, particularly on the Western Slope. According to the Vail Daily, communities have faced environmental and economic challenges resulting from prioritizing extraction without adequate safeguards.
What's at Stake in Colorado?
Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy is a powerhouse, generating over $11 billion annually and supporting over 149,000 jobs, as reported by the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office. Public lands like Rocky Mountain National Park and the Thompson Divide are not only economic engines but also vital ecosystems and cultural heritage sites.
Environmental concerns are paramount. The greater sage grouse, a keystone species in Colorado’s sagebrush ecosystems, has seen its population decline by 80% since the 1960s, according to the Department of the Interior. Increased drilling and habitat fragmentation could exacerbate this decline, leading to potential listings under the Endangered Species Act, which would impose stricter land use regulations.
Water quality is another critical issue. Many of Colorado’s watersheds originate on public lands. The risk of contamination from drilling activities threatens both the environment and communities that rely on these water sources for drinking, agriculture, and recreation.
Legal Hurdles and Policy Challenges
Altering protections on public lands is not straightforward. The Antiquities Act of 1906 grants presidents the authority to designate national monuments, but reducing or rescinding them is legally contentious. President Trump’s previous attempts to shrink Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments led to multiple lawsuits, and the outcomes of these cases could set precedents affecting future actions in Colorado.
Legislative efforts to solidify protections face obstacles. The Colorado Outdoor Recreation & Economy (CORE) Act, aiming to protect 420,000 acres in central Colorado, has struggled to advance in a divided Congress. Even bills with bipartisan support, like Senator Michael Bennet’s Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection (GORP) Act, encounter gridlock due to differing priorities on land use and resource management.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Public Opinion and the Path Forward
Despite political challenges, public support for conservation in Colorado remains strong. A 2024 survey by the Colorado College State of the Rockies Project found that 84% of Coloradans favor creating new parks and protected areas.
This widespread approval transcends political affiliations and the urban/rural divide, indicating a shared value placed on preserving natural landscapes.
A Call to Action: 4 Ways You Can Make a Difference
Protecting Colorado’s public lands requires collective effort. Here are actionable steps you can take to forge the way forward:
- Contact Elected Officials: Reach out to your federal and state representatives to express support for public land protections. Personalized letters and phone calls can influence policy decisions. Find your elected representatives here.
- Engage in Public Comment Periods: Participate in public meetings and provide input during comment periods on proposed land management plans and resource extraction projects.
- Support Conservation Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with local and national groups working to safeguard public lands, such as the Sierra Club, Colorado Mountain Club, Western Resource Advocates, and Conservation Colorado. You can also support The Next Summit by becoming a member here.
- Stay Informed and Educate Others: Follow reliable news sources and share information about public land issues with your community. Awareness is a critical step toward advocacy.
The Road Ahead
The next four years will be pivotal for Colorado’s public lands. Balancing economic interests with environmental conservation is a complex challenge that requires nuanced solutions and collaborative efforts. While the administration may emphasize resource extraction, there are legal frameworks, public opinion, and economic data that support the case for conservation.
By engaging in the democratic process, supporting advocacy efforts, and making conscious choices, we can work toward policies that honor both our natural heritage and economic needs. Colorado’s mountains, forests, and rivers are more than just scenery—they are integral to our identity and prosperity. Together, we can ensure they endure for generations to come.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
