Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed Senate Bill 24-171 into law on May 20, authorizing the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to prepare a restoration plan for reintroducing the North American wolverine to a state that advocates say has the largest block of wolverine-ready habitat in the continental U.S., enough to shelter 100 to 180 animals at full carrying capacity.
“I am thrilled to welcome wolverines back to Colorado!” Gov. Polis said during the signing ceremony, held at Loveland Pass in the Rocky Mountains. “A diverse and healthy environment strengthens Colorado’s booming eco-tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. Today, we begin to add wolverines to the list of animals reintroduced to Colorado, ensuring Colorado remains the best state in the nation for eco-diversity and outdoor enthusiasts.”