DENVER – The National Wildlife Federation applauded members of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for advancing two key pieces of legislation that will conserve wildlife habitat and safeguard sporting traditions in Colorado and Oregon. The Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy (CORE) Act – approved with bipartisan support – will conserve wildlife habitat and migration corridors, expand hunting opportunities, and keep grazing allotments for ranchers. The Malheur County Empowerment for the Owyhee Act will conserve 1 million acres of land in Oregon as wilderness while keeping provisions to preserve cattle grazing. Both pieces of legislation have strong support from local leaders, hunters, ranchers, and outdoor recreationists.

“The two bills are the result of many years of collaboration by the people who know these lands best: hunters, anglers, ranchers, and local leaders. These conservation measures will safeguard wildlife, expand hunting opportunities, and boost rural economies,” said Aaron Kindle, director of sporting advocacy at the National Wildlife Federation. “But there is no time to waste. The full Senate and House must act quickly to pass these measures so that our Western lands and waters can be restored and conserved for future generations to enjoy.”