FAQ: Initiative 13: A Timely Response to Wolf Management in Colorado

Understanding Initiative 13

Isn't this ballot measure too little, too late? Not at all; it's actually right on time. We've already seen the problems with wolves that have been brought in: lost livestock, disrupted wildlife populations, and wasted taxpayer money. Initiative 13 prevents further damage by ending wolf imports after 2026. This isn't a delayed reaction. It's quick action to stop a growing crisis and protect Colorado's ranchers, wildlife, and rural communities before things get worse.

Support for Initiative 13

Who is supporting this ballot measure campaign? Why should I? Initiative 13 is financially supported by hundreds of people who deal with wolves every day: local ranchers, hunters, and community members. Many ranchers strongly support ending further imports.

We are asking you to stand with the folks who are living with this reality on the ground. This is not just about the wolves; it's about the entire community.

Addressing State Concerns

Will the State retaliate by releasing more wolves or denying reimbursements?

No chance. Compensation for livestock losses is guaranteed by law, and Initiative 13 keeps that protection in place. The State can't legally or politically punish citizens for exercising their democratic rights. Our initiative ensures that wolves already here will be managed responsibly, and ranchers will continue to receive fair reimbursement without any interruption.

The Need for Balance

Wolves and Ecosystem Health

Wolves are needed for a healthy ecosystem. Why oppose that? Healthy ecosystems need careful balance, not forced experiments. Colorado already has thriving wildlife that's been responsibly managed without imported wolves for generations. The current reintroduction ignores the realities of human-wildlife conflict and is harming livestock and local wildlife.

Initiative 13 ensures ecosystem health through practical management that protects wildlife balance, ranching communities, and public safety.

Documented Livestock Losses

Can ranchers prove livestock losses due to wolves? Absolutely. Colorado wildlife officials have documented dozens of confirmed wolf kills of cattle, sheep, working dogs, and other livestock. Many losses remain unconfirmed but are widely recognized by the state. These documented kills, stress-induced herd reductions, and taxpayer-funded compensation programs all confirm that wolf depredation is real, costly, and getting worse daily.

Ensuring Responsible Management

Jeopardizing Funds?

Does Initiative 13 jeopardize the wolf compensation or management funds? Not at all. Initiative 13 completely preserves compensation and management funding for wolves. Compensation for rancher losses remains fully intact, and management resources stay available.

By ending imports, Initiative 13 makes compensation funds more sustainable by avoiding the escalating costs of an uncontrolled wolf population.

Current Wolves After 2026

What happens to wolves already in Colorado after 2026? Existing wolves will stay and be managed responsibly. Initiative 13 only stops new imports; it doesn't remove current wolves. Colorado wildlife officials will continue monitoring, managing conflicts, and maintaining wolf populations naturally.

Our initiative transitions Colorado from forced reintroduction to sustainable, practical management of the wolves that are already here.

Community Involvement in Initiative 13

Stakeholder Engagement

What stakeholder engagement led to Initiative 13, and why was it formed? Initiative 13 came from extensive local input from ranchers, county officials, outfitters, and wildlife advocates whose concerns were ignored during the original wolf reintroduction. After state processes failed to address severe impacts on rural communities, these stakeholders created Initiative 13 as a practical, community-driven solution to protect their livelihoods and wildlife balance.

Conclusion

Does Initiative 13 repeal Prop 114 entirely? Why not simply pause wolf releases? Initiative 13 amends Prop 114 (passed in 2020), ending further wolf imports without eliminating key provisions like livestock compensation and wolf population management. A temporary pause wouldn't prevent future imports or provide stability.

This ballot measure democratically corrects the policy based on proven harm. It ensures responsible wildlife management, economic protection, and respects voters' original intent.

By taking action now, we protect our communities and ensure a balanced ecosystem. Supporting Initiative 13 is a step toward sustainable coexistence with our wildlife.