Foreword
GOCO’s funding increase comes at a time filled with challenges
posed by the rapid growth Colorado has experienced in the last
decade. Since 1990, the stateís population has increased more
than 20 percent. Competition for land is intense and real estate
prices continue to increase. These factors are resulting in loss
of open spaces, destruction of wildlife habitats, and increased
demand for places to recreate.
At the same time, Coloradans’ concern about the state’s outdoor
resources remains a strong focus as the GOCO Board learned from
the more than 1500 people who participated in the strategic planning
process. Citizens value our stateís natural amenities and share
a commitment to preserving them for future generations.
Through the meetings and survey results, GOCO learned that:
Coloradans continue to consider growth and its impacts the number
one issue that should be addressed in the state. Both metro and
non-metro areas share a concern that the state is growing too
fast.
People overwhelmingly support using state Lottery dollars to help
address the impacts of growth on the stateís outdoor resources.
Preserving open space tops the list of local and statewide priorities
for use of Lottery funds. It is closely followed by preserving
wildlife habitat and maintaining park facilities.
The Board learned grantees and citizens want to see current GOCO
programs continue. At the same time, they support dedicating new
revenues to targeted initiatives outlined in this summary.
As to current GOCO programs, overall meeting participants said
open space deserves increased funding; local government outdoor
recreation grants are a close second. However, the priority on
these two programs varies from region to region in the state.
Youth education programs have strong support throughout the state.
In the statewide poll, the top five priorities for spending increased
Lottery dollars for outdoor projects are acquisition and protection
of 1) river corridors, 2) open space, and 3) agricultural land,
4) the expansion of opportunities for youth to participate and
work in the outdoors, and 5) acquiring land for future state and
local parks.
Based on the input it received, the protection and stewardship
of land and water for open space, wildlife, parks and outdoor
recreation will continue to be the highest priority for the GOCO
Board.
Every year, the Board will determine the amount and types of grants
it will give, and, as has become the tradition of GOCO, it will
continue to seek input from Coloradans. The Board will also remain
innovative and flexible so that it can address new challenges
that arise in the coming years and take advantage of special opportunities.
Finally, the Board will establish benchmarks to measure its success
in achieving the long-term goals of this plan.