No on 137 — the Wrong Way to Protect Our Forests

Why Measure 137 is a Threat to Our Future

As someone who has spent years investigating how policy decisions impact the environment, I can say with certainty that Measure 137 in Colorado Springs represents a dangerous shift in how we manage our forest resources. This initiative, passed by voters in 2024, was designed to make it easier for private developers and timber companies to access public lands — all under the guise of 'forest stewardship.' But the reality is far more troubling.

"This measure puts profit before people and our natural resources. It's not about protecting forests; it's about privatizing them," said environmental attorney Sarah Mitchell, who has worked extensively on land-use policy cases in Colorado.

At its core, Measure 137 allows for the transfer of control over certain public forest lands to private entities, opening the door to logging operations and development projects that could devastate ecosystems already under pressure from climate change and human activity. What's most alarming is how little scrutiny this measure received before voters approved it.

The Hidden Agenda Behind the Initiative

Despite being labeled a 'forest management' measure, there's little evidence that 137 actually promotes healthy forest ecosystems. Instead, its provisions prioritize short-term economic gains — primarily from timber harvesting and real estate development — over long-term environmental sustainability.

• It eliminates protections for sensitive habitats
• Reduces public oversight of land use decisions
• Allows for more aggressive logging practices

The true beneficiaries of this legislation are clear: large timber companies and developers who stand to profit from the increased access. Meanwhile, local communities — especially those in mountain towns like Colorado Springs — are left with diminished public lands and reduced recreational opportunities.

A Closer Look at the Impact on Local Communities

What worries me most is how Measure 137 undermines community resilience. In my experience covering environmental policy, I've seen firsthand how loss of public land affects not just nature but also local economies. Hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and quiet spaces are being eroded in favor of commercial interests.

For families in the area, these lands provide more than just beauty — they offer mental health benefits, opportunities for outdoor recreation, and even economic value through tourism. The loss of these resources threatens to diminish the very character that draws people to Colorado Springs.

Environmental Concerns and Climate Implications

The environmental implications go beyond local impacts. As we face increasing challenges from climate change, it's critical that we preserve forest ecosystems that act as carbon sinks and biodiversity refuges. Measure 137's approach — which prioritizes clearing land for timber sales rather than protecting existing forest cover — directly contradicts this need.

We've seen what happens when forests are treated like commodities. In other parts of the country, logging operations have led to habitat fragmentation, increased wildfire risk, and reduced water quality. Colorado's own fire seasons have grown more intense in recent years due to dry conditions, and any further disruption to forest health makes this situation worse.

What's Next for Public Lands?

I'm calling on residents to oppose Measure 137 not just because it threatens our forests, but because it sets a precedent that could affect public land management across the state. If we allow timber companies and developers to dictate how our public lands are used, we risk losing control of these vital resources forever.

The decision isn't just about one ballot measure — it's about the future of public stewardship in Colorado. We must resist efforts that turn our natural heritage into a commodity for private gain. The stakes couldn't be higher, and the time to act is now.

Take Action Today

If you care about protecting Colorado's forests, I urge you to vote 'No' on Measure 137 — and to stay engaged in your local government. We need more voices demanding transparency, accountability, and environmental justice. The power is in our hands.