A group of Colorado state lawmakers introduced House Bill 26-1323 in early March, which would prevent the taking of beavers on public lands for recreational or commerce purposes.
The bill reads that beaver activity helps reduce wildfires, protect water quality and improve drought resilience.
“As part of Colorado’s wildfire resiliency strategy, it is critical for the state to conserve beavers on public land by prohibiting the taking of beavers for a recreational purpose or commerce in beaver fur, parts, or products on public land in the state,” the bill read.
The legislation comes as the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission recently voted to advance a citizen petition seeking to “prohibit the commercial sale of wildlife fur in Colorado,” which would include beaver fur. Opponents say the petition has legal, scientific and ethical issues.
