County seeks contested‑hearing status on four instream-flow filings and signs letters opposing certain CPW appointments and a wolf petition

At the April 14 meeting, county staff asked commissioners to authorize Rio Blanco County to be a contested-hearing participant before the Colorado Water Conservation Board on four instream-flow filings (Bear Creek; Big Fish Creek; Haskins/Huskins Creek; and Picket Pin Creek). Staff said contested participant status will allow the county to receive notices, findings and participate in any contested proceedings with impacted landowners. The board approved the written notice requesting contested-hearing status.

The board also considered letters regarding appointments to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) Commission and related petitions. Staff presented a county draft opposing two recent CPW appointments and recommended the county sign on to a letter prepared by Coloradoans for Responsible Wildlife Management (CRWM) detailing perceived conflicts and representation concerns. Commissioners approved the county letter of opposition and authorized signing on to the CRWM letter. Separately, the board approved signing a Gunnison County Stock Growers Association letter and a broader letter opposing a citizen petition to revise wolf predation compensation rules.

Commissioners said they wanted to ensure local agricultural and riparian interests are represented and to preserve flexibility for landowners and water users as the state proceeds with instream flow proceedings and wildlife rulemaking.