- How did you first hear about the CWC?
I learned through a Colorado Parks and Wildlife liaison and the Colorado Farm Bureau about eight years ago.
- What is your role on the CWC?
I am vice chair and agriculture representative.
- Tell us about your background when it comes to conservation.
I’m involved as a hunter, fisherman and farmer. I love seeing wildlife every day on my farm, enjoy being hands on, using new farming methods that promote wildlife, and taking the best care of the land at the same time.
- Why are you so involved with conservation?
Whether it’s the land or the wildlife, it’s a valued treasure, and we have to do our best to pass both on to future generations. I love to watch wildlife on my crops.
- What is your favorite wildlife species and why?
That’s tough. I enjoy everything in its own environment for different reasons. For example, the amazing, colorful art of trout and pheasants; mule and white deer looking astonishing in a sunset; elk standing majestically on top of a mountain; and the locked wings of duck and geese. Everything has an amazing story when you look close enough.
- What is your favorite thing about living in Colorado?
The drive from east to west and north to south because you can see a vast amount of different wildlife and scenic views. I enjoy the diversity across our beautiful state.
- What do you wish Coloradoans knew about the council or wildlife?
As the agricultural representative on the council, I’ve noticed men and women who till and run livestock take great pride and ownership in both natural animals and the land used for a living. We do not take wildlife or animals for granted and feel an obligation to take care of both. Taking care of our land is a privilege and a responsibility.
- What types of outdoor recreation do you partake in?
Everything from camping by a creek to driving down a good country road or a mountain trail and enjoying God’s great work. Colorado has the best opportunities for outdoor recreation.
- What is your most memorable story about wildlife or being out in the wild?
My most memorable story is helping a friend’s 13-year-old daughter stalk a mule deer. We belly crawled over an hour and a half for about 3/4 of a mile, cutting through a corn field to get close enough for a shot on her doe. I’m not sure how we managed to get there in time, but her determination and hard work paid off. We made it there right before the doe ran away and she had a successful shot. It was a pleasure to officially tell her, “Now you are a hunter.” She, nor I, will ever forget that hunt.
