Explore every episode of the podcast Through the Gates

Colorado is at the center of some of the biggest battles over hunting, wildlife conservation, government policy and the future of the West.

In this extended episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates sits down with two guests who approach those issues from very different positions — but ultimately arrive at many of the same questions about leadership, government, conservation and the future of Colorado.

First, Chris Tymeson, Vice President of Government Affairs for Safari Club International (SCI), joins Dan to discuss the growing national and international fight over hunting and wildlife management.

Tymeson spent 22 years as the chief attorney for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks before moving to SCI, giving him a unique perspective on wildlife management from both the government and advocacy sides.

The conversation covers why Chris believes Colorado has become “ground zero” for the anti-hunting movement, the growing threat of ballot-box biology, wildlife commission appointments, predator management, firearms legislation, ammunition restrictions, trophy-import bans and the importance of sportsmen's coalitions.

Chris and Dan also discuss Colorado’s proposed constitutional right to hunt and fish, Kansas' experience establishing a constitutional right to hunt, fish and trap, and why protecting hunting and fishing at the constitutional level could become increasingly important as political pressure on wildlife management grows.

The conversation also goes far beyond Colorado. Chris explains SCI's work around the world, including international hunting, African wildlife conservation, trophy-import restrictions and the consequences that can occur when outside political interests attempt to dictate how other countries manage their own wildlife.

Then, after the sponsor break, Dan sits down with Kevin Grantham, former Colorado Senate President, former member of the Joint Budget Committee and current Fremont County Commissioner, who is running for Colorado State Treasurer.

Grantham discusses the Colorado state budget, government spending, TABOR, the role of the State Treasurer, the state's investment portfolio, PERA, unclaimed property and what he sees as the biggest problems facing Colorado's fiscal future.

The conversation also explores the changing political landscape of Colorado, the urban-rural divide, population growth, changing demographics, the relationship between state government and rural Colorado, and whether Colorado needs greater political balance.

For hunters, anglers and conservationists, this episode also offers an important reminder: wildlife conservation doesn't happen in a vacuum. Wildlife management, public lands, natural resources, hunting and fishing are all influenced by politics, elections, legislation, commissions and the people who occupy positions of authority.

From the national fight to protect hunting to the political and financial decisions shaping Colorado, this is a wide-ranging conversation about who controls the future of Colorado — and what happens when politics collides with conservation.

ABOUT THROUGH THE GATES

Through the Gates brings together wildlife professionals, hunters, anglers, conservationists, politicians, biologists, attorneys and policymakers to examine the issues affecting the future of wildlife and the outdoor heritage of the West.

#ThroughTheGates #ChrisTymeson #KevinGrantham #SafariClubInternational #Colorado #ColoradoHunting #WildlifeConservation #Hunting #Fishing #WildlifeManagement #RightToHunt #Conservation #ColoradoPolitics #TABOR #SaveTheHunt

What does it really mean to be a hunter? Is it about filling a tag, harvesting a trophy, or everything that happens along the way?

On this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates sits down with Jordan Budd, a Nebraska-based hunter, guide, filmmaker, and outdoor storyteller known for her work with MeatEater and Rockslide. Raised on her family's third-generation cattle ranch in northwest Nebraska, Jordan developed a passion for hunting, archery, and filming at an early age. Today, she has built a career around guiding hunters, pursuing big game across the West, producing outdoor films, and helping tell the story of hunting and conservation. Dan and Jordan explore the changing culture of hunting, the pressure to harvest, and the influence of social media and outdoor television on hunters' expectations. Jordan shares why some of her most meaningful hunting experiences have had nothing to do with whether she filled a tag, and why showing the realities of an unsuccessful hunt can be just as important as documenting a successful one. The conversation also takes a deeper look at the challenges facing today's hunters, including declining hunting opportunities, increasing difficulty drawing tags, wildlife habitat conservation, and the role of science-based wildlife management. Jordan discusses her family's ranching legacy, changes in Nebraska's mule deer and whitetail populations, the impacts of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD), and the growing presence of elk. Dan and Jordan also discuss the importance of hunting ambassadors, women's growing influence in the outdoor industry, predator management, grizzly bears, wolves, and the need for hunters to stay engaged in wildlife policy and conservation issues. From high-country archery mule deer to the realities of guiding, filmmaking, motherhood, and maintaining a family ranch, Jordan offers a candid perspective on what it takes to build a life in the outdoors—and why protecting hunting opportunities matters for future generations.

In this episode:

• Jordan's journey from a Nebraska ranch to the outdoor industry
• Why hunting is about the experience, not harvest
• Social media, hunting television, and unrealistic expectations
• The challenges of guiding hunters and managing expectations
• Archery hunting, mule deer, elk, and Western hunting opportunities
• Women's influence and representation in hunting and conservation
• Ranching, wildlife habitat, and the importance of private land conservation
• Nebraska's changing deer populations, EHD, and elk expansion
• Predator management, wolves, grizzly bears, and wildlife policy
• Outdoor storytelling and the future of hunting films
• Why hunters need to be engaged in conservation and wildlife decisions

STREAM TO SHOW -

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVjalEoOauqM3xLSHrq3FO680x-XriQcD

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What happens when wildlife management becomes a political fight?

In this special Through the Gates x The Mountainside Podcast collaboration, Dan Gates and Bobby Marshall sit down for a wide-ranging conversation about Colorado wildlife, hunting, fishing, conservation, CPW, ballot-box biology, and the emerging fight over Colorado’s constitutional right to hunt and fish.

This conversation goes far beyond hunting.

Dan and Bobby break down why wildlife management affects hunters, anglers, hikers, mountain bikers, photographers, ranchers, outdoor businesses, and anyone who enjoys Colorado’s public lands and wildlife.

A major focus of the conversation is the proposed constitutional right to hunt and fish in Colorado and the argument that complex wildlife-management decisions should remain grounded in science, data, professional wildlife management, and adaptive management.

They discuss:

• What Colorado’s constitutional right to hunt and fish actually says
• What the proposed amendment does — and does not — do
• The concept of “ballot box biology”
• Why CPW and professional wildlife managers play such an important role
• Colorado’s experience with Proposition 127 and wolf reintroduction
• Mountain lions, bobcats, lynx, bears, wolves and beavers
• The debate over trapping and wildlife-management tools
• How hunting and fishing contribute to conservation funding
• Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson funding
• Why wildlife doesn’t recognize state boundaries
• Colorado’s rapidly growing human population and increasing recreation pressure
• The changing relationship between wildlife and outdoor recreation
• Why non-hunters have a stake in wildlife management
• How people outside Colorado can support Colorado’s wildlife-conservation efforts
• How to talk to someone who doesn't hunt or fish about wildlife conservation
• And why Dan believes wildlife management should remain adaptable as conditions change

The conversation also gets into something that often gets overlooked: Colorado’s wildlife belongs to everyone.

Whether you hunt, fish, hike, camp, photograph wildlife, ride a mountain bike, own a ranch, or simply enjoy seeing elk, deer, bears, mountain lions and other wildlife in Colorado, the decisions being made today can affect how those resources are managed for generations.

This is a conversation about wildlife first — and the people, policies, science and funding mechanisms that determine how Colorado manages it.

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What does Colorado’s Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish actually mean—and why should it matter to people who don’t hunt or fish?

That is one of the central questions explored in this special episode of Through the Gates, featuring internationally recognized conservationist Shane Mahoney, President and CEO of Conservation Visions and founder of the Wild Harvest Initiative.

This conversation is especially relevant for Coloradans who love the outdoors but may never have hunted or fished. If you hike, camp, mountain bike, kayak, photograph wildlife, watch elk and moose, enjoy Colorado’s public lands, or simply care about healthy wildlife populations, this episode explores the connection between those experiences and the system of wildlife conservation that exists today.

Mahoney and Dan Gates take a deep look at the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and how regulated hunting and fishing fit into a larger system designed to maintain abundant wildlife populations and provide public benefits.

The discussion covers:

• Why wildlife is considered a public-trust resource
• How North American wildlife populations recovered from historic declines
• Why wildlife abundance benefits hunters AND non-hunters
• The connection between hunting, fishing and sustainable sources of food
• How hunting and fishing contribute to wildlife management and conservation funding
• Why science-based wildlife management matters
• What “sustainable use” actually means
• The history behind the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation
• The role of regulation in preventing overharvest
• The importance of wild foods and the Wild Harvest Initiative
• How conservation can serve people who never hunt or fish
• The debate surrounding fur-bearing wildlife and commercial use
• Why wildlife management has to account for changing populations, habitat and human communities
• What the proposed constitutional protection does—and does not—say about wildlife management
• Why understanding the issue matters before Colorado voters make their decision

One of the most important themes of the conversation is that wildlife conservation is not exclusively about hunting.

Mahoney argues that the recovery of elk, deer, pronghorn, waterfowl, bears and other wildlife has created opportunities for everyone—from hunters and anglers to hikers, photographers, birders, climbers, campers and other outdoor enthusiasts. As he explains, abundant wildlife adds another dimension to the Colorado outdoor experience regardless of whether someone ever harvests an animal.
The episode also examines an important question for anyone thinking about food and sustainability: How does harvesting from the wild fit into the modern food system?

Mahoney discusses the millions of people around the world who continue to rely directly on wild resources for food and livelihoods, and why he believes sustainable, regulated harvest should be considered alongside other approaches to food production and conservation.

And ultimately, the conversation returns to Colorado.

The Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish is discussed not simply as a question for hunters and anglers, but as a question about wildlife management, science, public trust, outdoor recreation, food, conservation funding and how Colorado manages its wildlife for future generations.

If you're a Colorado voter who doesn't hunt or fish, this episode is an opportunity to hear the history, philosophy and arguments surrounding Amendment 83 directly and consider how those ideas relate to the wildlife and outdoor experiences you value.

Listen before you vote. Learn what the issue actually says. Consider the different perspectives. Then make your own informed decision.

The fight to protect hunting, fishing, trapping, and science-based wildlife management doesn't stop at the U.S. border.

In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates sits down with Mark Hall, Executive Director of Wild Origins Canada, in Squamish, British Columbia, for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of hunting and conservation across North America.

The conversation explores the growing battles over hunting and wildlife management in Canada, the similarities between Canadian and American conservation fights, and why hunters may need to stop playing defense and start thinking strategically about the next 5-20 years.

Mark explains the mission of Wild Origins Canada and the importance of telling the story of how hunting benefits wildlife, communities, families, and conservation. Dan and Mark also discuss the power of documentaries, podcasts, social media, and influential voices in reaching the non-hunting public with a message grounded in wildlife management and sustainable use.

The conversation gets into some of the most contentious issues facing hunters and conservationists today, including grizzly bear hunting, wolf management, mountain lions, beavers, trapping, Indigenous rights, land access, public opinion, wildlife science, hunting tourism, conservation funding, and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.

They also examine why hunters in Canada and the United States may need to start thinking and acting as one North American conservation community.

Instead of waiting for the next ballot initiative, lawsuit, campaign, hunting ban, or attack on wildlife management, Mark and Dan discuss building a proactive strategy—developing the messaging, research, relationships, funding, and media infrastructure needed to reach the non-hunting public before the next fight begins.

Topics include:
• Wild Origins Canada and the mission to tell the truth about hunting
• The importance of changing the hunting narrative
• Grizzly bear hunting in British Columbia
• Colorado's Proposition 127 and lessons for Canada
• How wildlife issues cross international borders
• Attacks on the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation
• Wildlife science, peer review, and competing research
• Public opinion polling and social science
• Cougar and wolf management
• Trapping and predator management
• The growing debate over beaver management
• Indigenous rights and wildlife management in Canada
• Hunting tourism and its economic importance
• Conservation funding and philanthropic influence
• Why hunters need to support conservation organizations
• The role of Joe Rogan, Steve Rinella, Cameron Hanes, Charles Whitwam and other influential voices
• Building a proactive North American conservation strategy
• Why hunters need to stop fighting as isolated groups
• The need for a “meeting of the minds”

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Colorado's fight over hunting, wildlife management and the future of conservation continues—and this episode of Through the Gates takes that conversation from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission all the way to the Eastern Cape of South Africa.

Dan Gates breaks down the latest Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting, including concerns over public comment, commission procedure, stakeholder representation, science-based wildlife management and the push to make major decisions before a new administration takes office.

The conversation then shifts to Frontier Safaris in South Africa, where Dan sits down with Barry Birchell to discuss nearly four decades of wildlife conservation, hunting, habitat management and the economics that make wildlife worth conserving.

Barry explains how his family built Frontier Safaris from a single ranch in 1987 into a massive operation spanning tens of thousands of acres, and why hunting has played such an important role in keeping that land in wildlife production rather than returning it to traditional cattle, sheep and goat ranching.

The discussion covers the relationship between hunting and conservation, photographic safaris, predator management, wildlife populations, sustainable harvest, genetics, local employment, meat utilization and the economic realities of managing wildlife in Africa.

Barry also explains the philosophy behind the phrase "if it pays, it stays" and why he believes hunters have played a critical role in the remarkable growth of wildlife populations in South Africa.

Back in Colorado, the episode returns to the fight over the constitutional right to hunt and fish, including Amendment 83 and the growing debate over who should make wildlife management decisions: politicians and activists, or professional wildlife managers and scientists.

If you care about hunting, fishing, public lands, wildlife conservation, the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, or the future of our outdoor heritage, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Watch. Listen. Educate yourself. Then make up your own mind.

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What happens when a ballot initiative goes far beyond hunting and fishing?

In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates sits down with Charles Whitwam of Howl for Wildlife for a wide-ranging conversation about the growing national fight over hunting, fishing, agriculture, wildlife management, and the future of conservation.

The conversation begins with the history of the partnership between Howl for Wildlife, Colorado Wildlife Conservation Project, Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management, and other conservation organizations before diving into some of the biggest issues facing hunters and wildlife advocates today.

A major focus is Oregon IP 28, an initiative discussed in the episode as potentially affecting hunting, fishing, animal breeding, ranching, farming, livestock production, and locally sourced food. Charles explains why he believes IP 28 represents more than a single ballot measure—and why the larger issue is the growing disconnect between people who participate in these activities and people who have never experienced them firsthand.

The discussion also covers Charles' upcoming documentary on IP 28, the people and communities he plans to interview in Oregon, and the importance of telling the human stories behind hunting, farming, fishing, ranching, and food production.

From there, Dan and Charles turn their attention to Colorado Initiative 302 and the proposed constitutional right to hunt and fish, discussing what the language actually says, the role of science-based wildlife management, and how supporters believe the measure could provide a constitutional framework while preserving the state's ability to regulate hunting and fishing.

They also discuss:

• The history of Howl for Wildlife and its role as a "force multiplier"
• The fight over mountain lions and Colorado Senate Bill 31
• Proposition 127 and Colorado's battle over mountain lion hunting
• The controversy surrounding Catalina Island mule deer
• The importance of food, farming and local food production
• Why hunters need to communicate more effectively with non-hunters
• The growing movement to establish constitutional rights to hunt and fish
• Colorado's role in that broader Western movement

One of the central themes of the conversation is that the future of hunting and wildlife management won't be determined solely by hunters. It will also depend on whether people who don't hunt understand how wildlife is managed, where their food comes from, and why science-based conservation exists in the first place. Charles specifically discusses conversations with people who have little or no connection to hunting and how those conversations can change perceptions.
The episode closes with a discussion about leadership, cooperation among conservation organizations, and the idea that protecting hunting and fishing rights is becoming a broader movement across the American West.

SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO

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Women are becoming one of the most important voices in hunting, conservation, and the outdoors — and in this episode of Through the Gates, we explore why.

Dan Gates sits down with Renée Thornton, founder and chair of the Wild Sheep Foundation's Women Hunt program, and Rachel Ahtila, professional guide and longtime Women Hunt advocate, for an in-depth conversation about getting more women into hunting, breaking down barriers, mentorship, conservation education, and the role women can play in defending the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.

The conversation goes far beyond simply getting women into the field.

Renée and Rachel explain how Women Hunt evolved from an idea into a growing program providing skills training, mentorship, hunting opportunities, community, conservation education, and support for women at every stage of their hunting journey.

They also discuss the challenges women still encounter entering a traditionally male-dominated hunting community, the importance of representation, the evolution of women's hunting gear, the power of social media, and why the hunting community needs to reach beyond its traditional echo chamber.

The episode also explores how hunting can become a gateway to conservation, food sovereignty, outdoor education, family traditions, and advocacy — and why women may be uniquely positioned to communicate those ideas to people who don't traditionally identify as hunters.

Then, in the second half of the episode, Dan talks with Dana Dykema, host of the Women Hunt IGNITE Podcast, about her own journey from having virtually no connection to hunting to becoming a hunter, conservation advocate, podcast host, and voice for the hunting community.

Dana shares her experience at the Women Hunt Field to Fork program, learning to shoot, harvesting her first animal, navigating hunting as a mother of four, exploring fishing and other outdoor pursuits, and discovering the larger conservation community.

They also discuss why sharing the real story of hunting — where food comes from, how hunting funds conservation, and why sustainable use matters — may be one of the most important challenges facing hunters today.

• Women Hunt and the Wild Sheep Foundation
• How Renée Thornton got into hunting
• Rachel Ahtila's career as a professional guide
• Breaking down barriers for women in hunting
• The evolution of women's hunting gear
• Hunting mentorship and education
• Field to Fork hunting
• Women as conservation advocates
• Reaching beyond the hunting community
• Social media and conservation messaging
• The Women of Conservation initiative
• Overcoming fear of firearms and harvesting an animal
• The emotional side of learning to hunt
• Hunting as a source of food and connection
• Dana Dykema's journey into hunting
• The IGNITE Podcast
• Hunting and fishing in British Columbia
• Why the hunting community needs more voices

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Ryan Callaghan—known to millions through MeatEater and now President & CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers—joins Daniel Gates for one of the most important conservation conversations of the year.

From his beginnings as a Montana hunting guide and First Lite employee to helping build MeatEater and now leading one of North America's largest conservation organizations, Ryan explains why protecting hunting, fishing, public lands, and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation requires more than buying a hunting license—it requires action.

Together, Ryan and Dan discuss:

• Ryan's journey from guide to conservation leader
• Behind-the-scenes stories from the early days of MeatEater
• Why coalition building is the future of conservation
• Public lands, access, and the biggest threats facing hunters today
• Oregon's IP 28 and what it could mean nationwide
• Colorado's Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish initiative
• How hunters, anglers, ranchers, agriculture, recreation groups, and public land users can work together instead of being divided
• Why advocacy matters just as much as time spent in the field

If you care about hunting, fishing, conservation, wildlife management, public lands, or the future of the outdoors, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO

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00:00 Introduction & Mission to Save the Hunt
00:43 Meet Ryan Callaghan
01:32 Ryan's Background & Growing Up in Montana
04:00 Building First Lite & Early Conservation Work
07:00 Joining MeatEater & Leading Backcountry Hunters & Anglers
09:20 New Fatherhood & Life Updates
10:35 How Ryan Ended Up at MeatEater
18:30 From Outdoor Jobs to Conservation Leadership
23:45 Why Hunting Advocacy Matters
25:45 Coalition Building Over Division
28:10 Lessons from Ranching Communities
32:40 Why Hunters Must Stop Fighting Each Other
33:20 Public Lands & Responsible Recreation
37:15 Politics vs. Policy
40:05 Supporting Businesses that Support Hunting
41:40 Conservation, Agriculture & Finding Common Ground
45:30 Responsible Resource Development
50:45 Oregon IP 28 Explained
57:30 Colorado's Right to Hunt & Fish Movement
1:03:30 Why Join Backcountry Hunters & Anglers?
1:06:20 Building Stronger Conservation Coalitions
1:12:20 Volunteerism & Stewardship
1:15:40 Reaching Non-Hunters Through Conservation
1:17:45 Why Wildlife Management Shouldn't Be Decided by Emotion
1:20:00 Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Ryan Callaghan, Dan Gates, MeatEater Podcast, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Daniel Gates, Through the Gates Podcast, public lands, hunting rights, right to hunt and fish, North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, conservation, wildlife management, Colorado hunting, Oregon IP 28, hunting advocacy, fishing rights, public land access, hunters united, wildlife conservation, hunting podcast, outdoor podcast, science-based wildlife management.

What does it take to build one of the most recognizable brands in hunting while becoming one of the strongest voices for wildlife conservation?

In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates sits down with legendary hunter, entrepreneur, conservationist, and Primos Hunting founder Will Primos for one of the most personal and insightful interviews he's ever given.

Will shares the incredible story behind building Primos Hunting from a garage startup into one of the biggest names in the outdoor industry. He discusses the evolution of game calls, hunting videos, elk calling, turkey hunting, business leadership, and how timing, innovation, and authenticity changed hunting forever.

More importantly, Will explains why science-based wildlife management, the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, and educating the non-hunting public are more important today than ever before.

• The incredible story behind founding Primos Hunting

• Building a hunting company from a garage

• How VHS tapes revolutionized hunting education

• Why authenticity built one of hunting's biggest brands

• The evolution of turkey, deer and elk calling

• Product innovation inside Primos

• Entrepreneurship lessons from growing a national company

• The importance of habitat conservation

• Why science—not emotion—must guide wildlife management

• Educating non-hunters about conservation

If you believe in conserving wildlife through science-based management, responsible hunting, and protecting the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, be sure to subscribe and join us for future episodes.

SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO

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00:00 Introduction

00:44 Meet Will Primos

01:39 Growing up and early influences

06:57 Starting Primos Hunting in a garage

09:58 Audio cassettes that changed hunting

11:42 The birth of hunting videos

17:06 Timing, innovation & entrepreneurship

18:02 Conservation begins with education

20:31 Building the Primos brand

22:00 Expanding beyond turkey calls

27:58 Product innovation & Trigger Stick

37:50 Conservation becomes the mission

42:58 Teaching the next generation

48:59 Ballot box biology & public education

53:24 Challenges facing hunting today

56:10 Why everyone impacts wildlife habitat

1:00:51 Future hunting plans & favorite adventures

1:05:03 Final thoughts from Will Primos

1:06:03 Colorado Outfitters Association

1:06:50 Mintern Anglers

1:07:07 Rustic Living

1:08:09 Outro

Will Primos, Primos Hunting, hunting podcast, Dan Gates, elk hunting, turkey hunting, deer hunting, wildlife conservation, North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, science-based wildlife management, conservation podcast, elk calling, turkey calls, hunting industry, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation, Colorado hunting, hunting heritage, wildlife management, public lands

***This episode was recorded with GoHunt in late May. While much of conversation is relevant and educational, some edits were made to remove content out of date. ***

Colorado is at a crossroads.

For the first time, Colorado has the opportunity to become the 25th state to protect the constitutional right to hunt and fish, creating another layer of defense for science-based wildlife management and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.

In this episode of Through the Gates, Sean Ender sits down with Dan Gates, President of Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management (CRWM), to break down what this proposed constitutional amendment actually does, why it's needed, and what sportsmen and women—both inside and outside Colorado—need to understand.

The conversation goes far beyond a ballot measure.

Dan explains how Colorado became ground zero for wildlife policy battles, why anti-hunting organizations continue returning after every defeat, how the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission influences the future of hunting, and why educating the public may be the most important conservation effort of our generation.

Whether you're a hunter, angler, conservationist, landowner, or simply care about science-based wildlife management, this conversation explains what's happening in Colorado—and why it could influence wildlife policy across the country.

If you value responsible hunting, fishing, public lands, and the future of conservation, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Colorado's wildlife management is at a crossroads.

In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates breaks down one of the most consequential Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission meetings in recent memory and explains why sportsmen, anglers, conservationists, landowners, and anyone who values science-based wildlife management should be paying attention.

From controversial furbearer bag limit decisions to growing concerns about politics overriding wildlife science, this episode explains what happened during the July Commission meeting, why those decisions matter, and how they connect to Colorado's proposed Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish (Initiative 302).

Dan discusses:

• The recent CPW Commission decisions on furbearer regulations

• Why science-based wildlife management is under increasing pressure

• The role of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation

• Why the constitutional amendment does not remove management authority from Colorado Parks and Wildlife

• The dangers of ballot-box biology

• Why hunters and anglers need to become more engaged before future wildlife decisions are made

Whether you're a hunter, angler, wildlife professional, or simply someone who believes wildlife should be managed using science instead of emotion or politics, this conversation provides important context for the future of conservation in Colorado.

If you enjoy the podcast, please Like, Subscribe, and Share to help spread the message.

SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO

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For decades, outdoor television has focused on the hunt. Jason Matzinger has spent his career telling the story behind it.

In this episode of Through the Gates, we sit down with the creator of Into High Country and one of conservation's most respected filmmakers to explore why hunting is about far more than the harvest. Jason explains how storytelling can bridge the gap between hunters and non-hunters by showcasing the science, stewardship, and wildlife conservation that make the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation the most successful conservation system in the world.

From his groundbreaking documentaries with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Mule Deer Foundation, Wild Sheep Foundation, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, and Boone & Crockett Club to his upcoming documentary on grizzly bear recovery, Jason shares why he believes conservation—not trophies—should always be the hero of the story.

We discuss:

• Why modern hunting media often misses the bigger conservation message

• How film can reach audiences outside the hunting community

• The truth about "trophy hunting" and selective wildlife management

• The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation

• Why grizzly bears should be managed through science—not politics

• The role hunters play in funding wildlife conservation

• The future of conservation storytelling

If you've ever wondered how hunting became North America's greatest conservation success story—or how we can better communicate that story to the public—this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Subscribe for more conversations protecting hunting, fishing, wildlife management, and the future of conservation.

SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO

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What happens when wildlife policy is driven by politics instead of science?

In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates joins the Wild Sheep Foundation's Sheep Fever Podcast for one of the most important conversations happening in conservation today.

From Colorado's proposed Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish amendment to Oregon's sweeping IP28 initiative, this episode exposes how organized animal-rights campaigns are reshaping wildlife policy across North America—and why sportsmen, conservationists, ranchers, anglers, and anyone who values science-based wildlife management should be paying attention.

Dan explains how Colorado has become ground zero for ballot-box biology, politically appointed wildlife commissions, predator management controversies, trapping restrictions, wolf reintroduction, and coordinated efforts to replace decades of professional wildlife science with ideology.

More importantly, he explains what can be done to protect the future of hunting, fishing, conservation funding, and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation before similar efforts spread to additional states.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more conversations exploring conservation, wildlife policy, hunting, fishing, and the future of the North American Model.

SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO

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00:00 Introduction: Why Colorado Is Ground Zero for Wildlife Politics

02:42 Meet Dan Gates & The Conservation Fight

06:15 The Growing Animal Rights Movement Across America

10:48 Oregon's IP28 Explained

15:30 How Activists Test Messaging Before Ballot Measures

19:40 Why Colorado Became the Blueprint

24:15 The Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish

30:18 Why This Amendment Matters

35:55 Science vs Politics in Wildlife Management

41:20 Ballot Box Biology Explained

46:50 The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation

51:35 Why Hunting & Fishing Fund Conservation

57:42 What the Amendment Actually Does

1:03:12 Does It Change Hunting Regulations?

1:08:15 Colorado's History of Ballot Initiatives

1:14:02 Why Wildlife Commissions Matter

1:19:40 Political Appointments vs Wildlife Science

1:25:12 The Fur Ban Controversy

1:30:45 Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission

1:37:10 The Cost of Political Wildlife Management

1:42:55 Wolves, Predators & Wildlife Policy

1:49:20 Why Science Must Lead Wildlife Decisions

1:54:48 Conservation Funding Challenges

2:00:15 Who Should Pay for Wildlife?

2:05:50 Public Education Is the Missing Piece

2:11:30 Why Hunters Must Tell Their Story Better

2:17:42 Conservation Beyond Hunters

2:23:08 Creating a National Conservation Message

2:29:10 Building the Future of Hunting Advocacy

2:34:15 Protecting Wildlife for Future Generations

2:38:40 Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Is Colorado's wildlife policy being guided by science—or by ideology?

In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates takes an in-depth look at Governor Jared Polis' latest appointment to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission: Dr. Rebecca Niemiec.

Dan examines Dr. Niemiec's published research, public statements, academic work, and professional affiliations, arguing they reveal a consistent philosophy that challenges the traditional role of wildlife biologists in wildlife policy and management. The discussion explores her work surrounding "Ballot Box Biology," predator coexistence, animal policy, and what Dan contends is a growing movement to shift wildlife decision-making away from science-based management and toward values-driven public campaigns.

This episode also revisits what Dan calls the growing "web" connecting political appointments, academia, predator advocacy, and animal-rights organizations influencing wildlife policy in Colorado.

Topics include:

• Dr. Rebecca Niemiec's appointment to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission
• Her published work on "Ballot Box Biology"
• The debate over who should shape wildlife policy—wildlife biologists or broader public values
• Wolf management and predator coexistence
• Wildlife for All and the broader animal advocacy movement
• Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission appointments
• Science-based wildlife management
• The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation
• Why Dan believes Colorado has become the national epicenter of wildlife policy battles
• How the Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish initiative fits into the broader strategy to protect hunting and fishing opportunities

This episode examines one of the most consequential wildlife appointments in Colorado's recent history and what it could mean for hunters, anglers, ranchers, wildlife professionals, and everyone invested in the future of wildlife conservation.

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00:00 – Introduction: The Web Grows
03:15 – Why This Appointment Matters
08:10 – Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission Update
13:45 – Who Is Dr. Rebecca Niemiec?
22:30 – Academic Research & Ballot Box Biology
34:10 – Predator Advocacy & Human Carnivore Coexistence
46:20 – Wildlife for All and Related Advocacy Networks
57:30 – Should Wildlife Biologists Drive Wildlife Policy?
1:10:20 – Science-Based Wildlife Management vs. Values-Based Campaigns
1:22:45 – The Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission's Direction
1:33:50 – Why Colorado Is the National Battleground
1:41:40 – The Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish
1:47:30 – How You Can Get Involved

What happens when a wildlife scientist, filmmaker, conservationist, and hunter decides to change the narrative around hunting?

In this episode of Through the Gates, Daniel Gates sits down with Dr. Robbie Kroger, founder of the Origins Foundation (formerly Blood Origins), to discuss the power of storytelling in conservation, the future of hunting advocacy, wildlife documentaries, global conservation projects, Colorado wildlife politics, Oregon's controversial IP 28 initiative, and why hunters must become better ambassadors for wildlife conservation.

Robbie shares his journey from South Africa to earning a PhD in wetland ecology, working as a professor and scientist, and ultimately launching one of the most influential storytelling platforms in the hunting and conservation world. From lion conservation and elephant documentaries to wolves in Colorado, rhino projects in Africa, New Zealand's Tahr controversy, and the growing battle over wildlife policy, this conversation explores how stories can shape the future of hunting, fishing, and conservation worldwide.

If you care about hunting, conservation, wildlife management, public lands, science-based policy, and protecting the future of our outdoor heritage, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Topics Include:

• Origins Foundation (formerly Blood Origins)
• Robbie Kroger's conservation journey
• Hunting and conservation storytelling
• Colorado wolf management
• LionHeart documentary
• Global wildlife conservation projects
• Rhino, elephant, cheetah, and wolf conservation
• New Zealand Tahr controversy
• Oregon IP 28 initiative
• Hunting advocacy and public perception
• Wildlife policy and ballot initiatives
• The future of conservation media

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Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode to help spread the conservation message.

What happens when wildlife policy is driven by emotion instead of science?

In this episode of Through the Gates, Daniel Gates sits down with filmmaker, conservation advocate, and Shepherds of Wildlife Society founder Tom Opre for an in-depth conversation about hunting, conservation, ballot initiatives, predator management, wolves, trapping, rural communities, wildlife policy, and the growing disconnect between urban society and the natural world.

Tom shares stories from decades of global travel and filmmaking, including work in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America, while discussing how sustainable use conservation, hunting, trapping, and wildlife management have shaped modern conservation success.

The conversation dives deep into:

• Colorado wolf reintroduction • Ballot box biology and anti-hunting initiatives • Predator management and trapping • Conservation vs preservation • Rural communities and wildlife stewardship • The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation • Trophy hunting misconceptions • Sustainable use conservation in Africa • Rewilding movements • Wildlife economics and habitat management • Human-wildlife conflict • Public land pressure and outdoor recreation • The future of hunting, fishing, and trapping rights

Tom Opre also explains how storytelling, documentaries, and public education are shaping the future of wildlife conservation and why hunters, anglers, ranchers, and rural communities are essential to protecting habitat and wildlife populations.

If you care about wildlife conservation, public lands, hunting rights, predator management, trapping, elk, mule deer, wolves, mountain lions, grizzly bears, habitat restoration, rural America, or the future of science-based wildlife management, this episode is a must-watch.

Subscribe to Through the Gates for more long-form conversations about hunting, wildlife policy, conservation, predator management, trapping, public lands, and the fight to protect the future of wildlife management.

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In this special election edition of Through the Gates, Dan Gates sits down with Colorado gubernatorial candidates Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer and Victor Marx for two in-depth conversations about the future of the Centennial State.

From wildlife conservation and hunting heritage to public safety, energy, education, agriculture, water policy, the wolf introduction debate, Second Amendment rights, and government accountability, both candidates share their vision for restoring confidence in Colorado's leadership and charting a path forward.

This episode goes far beyond campaign talking points. Dan challenges both candidates on the issues that matter most to sportsmen, ranchers, conservationists, small business owners, and families who believe Colorado has drifted away from the values that once made it one of America's most desirable places to live, work, hunt, fish, and raise a family.

Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer discusses her plans for government reform, regulatory relief, science-based wildlife management, wolf policy, transportation, education, and restoring accountability in state government.

Victor Marx shares his outsider perspective on leadership, public safety, constitutional rights, conservation issues, educating voters, and his vision for bringing Colorado back to the people.

Whether you're a hunter, angler, rancher, conservationist, business owner, or simply concerned about Colorado's future, this conversation provides a unique opportunity to hear directly from two candidates seeking to lead the state through its next chapter.

The question is simple: How do we reclaim Colorado?

Colorado may be on the verge of making history.

In Episode 102 of Through the Gates, Dan Gates joins renowned public lands advocate Randy Newberg to discuss Colorado's push for a Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish. After years of fighting ballot initiatives, legislative attacks, controversial wildlife commission appointments, wolf reintroduction, fur bans, and Proposition 127, conservation advocates are now shifting from defense to offense.

Dan and Randy break down Initiative 302, the signature-gathering effort that could make Colorado the 25th state in America to constitutionally protect hunting, fishing, and science-based wildlife management. They explain why this effort matters not just for Colorado, but for hunters, anglers, conservationists, and wildlife managers across the country. The conversation covers the future of wildlife policy, ballot-box biology, sportsmen's advocacy, fundraising, coalition building, and what it will take to protect hunting opportunities for future generations.

Whether you're a Colorado resident, a nonresident hunter, or simply someone who supports the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, this episode provides an inside look at one of the most important conservation battles happening today.

In this episode of Through the Gates, we're doin a joint released episode with Cliff Gray of "Pursuit with Cliff" to break down Colorado’s proposed Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish initiative and why many hunters, anglers, outfitters, ranchers, and conservationists believe it could become one of the most important wildlife policy battles in the country.

They discuss:

• Initiative 302 and the proposed constitutional amendment
• The future of hunting and fishing rights in Colorado
• “Ballot box biology” and anti-hunting activism
• The role of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission
• Mountain lion hunting bans, fur bans, wolf politics, and predator management
• Science-based wildlife management vs emotional policymaking
• How commissions and political appointments impact conservation
• Why sportsmen and women are mobilizing across Colorado

Dan also explains how organizations like the International Order of T. Roosevelt and SCI Colorado are working to defend the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and preserve hunting opportunities for future generations.

If you care about hunting rights, wildlife conservation, elk hunting, predator management, public lands, or the future of science-based wildlife policy, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Colorado is the next major battleground in the fight for the future of hunting and fishing in America.

In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates of Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management joins Robbie Denning from Rokcast to break down the push for a Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish in Colorado — and why the outcome could impact hunters, anglers, ranchers, and wildlife management nationwide.

They dive deep into:

• The growing anti-hunting movement in Colorado
• Proposition 127 and the fight over mountain lion & bobcat hunting
• Wolves, rewilding, and political agendas
• Why Colorado is viewed as the “epicenter” for anti-hunting activists
• How constitutional protections work
• What sportsmen and women can do RIGHT NOW
• Massive elk and Alaska fishing raffles supporting the fight to Save the Hunt

If you care about the future of hunting, fishing, conservation, public access, wildlife management, or the North American Model of Conservation — this episode matters.

You asked for us to go on OFFENSE - Colorado could soon become one of the next major battlegrounds in the fight to protect hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife management, and the future of conservation in America.

In this episode of Through the Gates, Daniel Gates sits down with Travis Thompson of the International Order of T. Roosevelt (IOTR) to break down Colorado’s proposed Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish amendment — what it means, why it matters, and why supporters believe it’s critical to protecting science-based wildlife management for future generations.

Travis shares how Florida successfully passed a similar constitutional amendment with nearly 67% voter approval, while Daniel explains how Colorado’s recent battles over mountain lion hunting, fur bans, trapping, predator politics, and wildlife ballot initiatives have shaped the urgency behind this effort.

This episode dives deep into:

• Colorado’s Right to Hunt & Fish initiative
• Science-based wildlife management
• Proposition 127 & Ordinance 308
• The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation
• Hunting, trapping, and fishing rights
• Animal rights activism & ballot box biology
• Oregon’s controversial IP 28 initiative
• The future of conservation in Colorado
• Why sportsmen, ranchers, and outdoor advocates are paying attention

Whether you hunt, fish, ranch, recreate outdoors, or simply care about Colorado wildlife, this conversation explains why many believe this constitutional amendment could shape the future of wildlife policy across the West.

If you support the future of hunting, fishing, trapping, conservation, and public access, make sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode.

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In this joint release episode of Through the Gates, Heidi Stout of From the Ashes sits down with Dan Gates of Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management to break down the growing fight over hunting, conservation, and wildlife policy in Colorado and across the West.

From the dangers of “ballot box biology” to the push for a constitutional right to hunt and fish, this conversation dives deep into the real issues impacting sportsmen, conservationists, and everyday citizens. Learn how the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation works, why science-based management matters, and what’s at stake if public opinion overrides biology.

This episode also explores:

The rise of wildlife activism and its influence on policy
Why education and communication are critical for the hunting community
The importance of coalition-building and grassroots involvement
How YOU can get involved and make a difference

Whether you hunt, fish, recreate outdoors, or simply care about wildlife, this is a must-listen conversation about the future of conservation in America.

Listen, share, subscribe and stay informed — the future of wildlife management depends on it.

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Is hunting under attack in Colorado? What does Initiative 302 mean for the future of wildlife management? In this episode of Through the Gates, we break down the political battles shaping conservation, the controversy over Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission appointments, legislative wins and threats, and why the constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish may be one of the most important ballot initiatives in decades.

From defeating anti-management legislation to discussing science-based wildlife conservation, sportsmen advocacy, and the growing influence of animal-rights activism, this episode covers the front lines of Colorado conservation policy.

If you care about hunting rights, wildlife conservation, public lands, ballot initiatives, predator management, Colorado politics, or the North American Model, this is an episode you need to hear.

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Colorado’s wildlife politics are reaching a breaking point. In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates breaks down the latest Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission meeting, the growing battle over hunting rights, wolf management, fur ban proposals, Second Amendment restrictions, and the political fight shaping the future of conservation in Colorado.

This episode dives deep into the appointment of new CPW leadership, the controversy surrounding wildlife commissioner Jay Tuchton, concerns over anti-hunting influence inside Colorado Parks & Wildlife, and why sportsmen, ranchers, counties, and conservationists are mobilizing to defend science-based wildlife management.

Daniel also covers:

• Colorado Senate Bill 003 firearm restrictions
• Wolf reintroduction and predator management
• The future of hunting and trapping in Colorado
• Proposition 127 fallout
• Constitutional right to hunt & fish efforts
• The “Circle the Wagons” coalition event in Grand Junction
• The growing divide between sportsmen and political activists
• SCI Colorado raffle opportunities benefiting conservation advocacy

If you care about hunting, fishing, conservation, wildlife policy, rural Colorado, or the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation — this is an episode you cannot miss.

Subscribe and follow Through the Gates as we continue to unite the fight to Save the Hunt.

Listen, share, subscribe and stay informed — the future of wildlife management depends on it.

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👉 Follow the fight for science-based wildlife management

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In this episode of Through the Gates, we break down the rapidly evolving landscape of wildlife management in Colorado and beyond. From upcoming Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission confirmations to the continued fallout from Proposition 127, this episode dives deep into the political, cultural, and scientific battles shaping the future of hunting, trapping, and conservation.

We also examine the growing influence of animal rights activism, spotlighting key figures, messaging strategies, and how these campaigns are impacting policy decisions at the state and national level. With major events like Sportsmen’s Day at the Capitol, upcoming commission meetings, and potential ballot initiatives on the horizon, now is the time to stay informed and engaged.

If you care about the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, public trust resources, and the role of hunters and anglers in conservation, this episode is a must-listen.

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In this data-driven episode of Through the Gates, we break down the real science, numbers, and economic impact behind hunting, trapping, and wildlife conservation in America—and why these facts matter now more than ever.

From Colorado wildlife policy battles to national statistics on hunters, trappers, and conservation funding, this episode exposes the disconnect between science-based wildlife management and emotionally driven narratives pushed by activist groups.

We dive deep into:

The true economic impact of hunting, trapping, and dog-assisted hunting
Misconceptions about “profit-driven” wildlife harvest
The role of science vs. ideology in wildlife policy decisions
The ongoing fight to protect the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation
Key upcoming events like Sportsmen’s Day at the Capitol

If you care about wildlife conservation, hunting rights, trapping, rural economies, and science-backed policy, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.

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In Episode 93 of Through the Gates, Dan Gates breaks down one of the most detailed and controversial discussions yet surrounding wildlife policy, governance, and political influence in Colorado.

This episode dives deep into the connections between policymakers, activist organizations, and wildlife commissions—unpacking how decisions are made, who influences them, and what it means for hunters, ranchers, conservationists, and everyday Coloradans.

From recent legislative battles to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission decisions, this episode explores:

The push for fur bans and wildlife policy changes
The role of activist organizations and political appointments
The influence of interconnected networks in wildlife governance
The future of science-based wildlife management in Colorado and beyond

If you care about hunting, conservation, wildlife management, or public policy, this is a must-watch episode.

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In this episode of Through the Gates, we sit down with Aspen Grady and Guy Duplantier at the Mile High Hunt & Fish Expo for a powerful conversation about the future of hunting, conservation, and the rising influence of women in the outdoor space.

Aspen shares her journey from growing up around hunting to stepping into the conservation fight, working in policy, and becoming part of a rapidly growing movement that’s reshaping how the hunting community communicates, organizes, and defends its way of life.

This episode dives deep into:

Why hunters are losing ground politically
The gap between science-based wildlife management and public perception
How women are leading a new wave of conservation advocacy
The importance of curiosity, education, and engagement
What YOU can do to help save the hunt

If you care about hunting, fishing, conservation, or the future of wildlife management in Colorado and beyond — this is a must-listen.
Listen, share, subscribe and stay informed — the future of wildlife management depends on it.

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In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates sits down with  @Laramysasquatchmiller   at the Mile High Hunting Expo in Denver, Colorado to break down the growing battle over wildlife management, hunting rights, and political influence in the West.

From wolf reintroduction to trapping bans, ballot initiatives, and the increasing role of emotion-driven policy, this conversation dives deep into the real threats facing the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.

Laramy shares firsthand experience as an outfitter, hunter, and conservationist—highlighting how rapidly Colorado has changed, why science-based wildlife management is being challenged, and what sportsmen must do to protect the future of hunting.

This is a must-listen for hunters, outdoorsmen, conservation advocates, and anyone concerned about the future of wildlife policy in America.

👉 Topics include:

Colorado wolf reintroduction & its consequences
The decline of science-based wildlife management
Trapping bans and anti-hunting legislation
The role of politics in wildlife decisions
Why hunters must engage in the fight
The future of conservation in the West

🎯 If you care about hunting, conservation, and the outdoors—this episode matters.

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In this episode of Through the Gates, we expose what many hunters, ranchers, and the people of Colorado need to understand about the powerful and national network of animal rights extremists that are manipulating  science-based wildlife management for agenda driven politics.

Following the controversial Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting on March 4–5, this episode dives deep into the growing concerns about how political pressure, activist organizations, and government appointments may be influencing wildlife management decisions that were once driven by science.

Host Dan Gates breaks down the network of activists, nonprofits, political figures, and commission appointments that are working together to reshape wildlife policy across the American West. The major players include Governor Polis, First Gentleman Marol Reis, Samantha Miller, Wayne Pacelle, Mark Surls and organizations such as the Center for Biological Diversity, Project Coyote, Humane World for Animals and Prairie Protection Colorado just to name a few. From petitions targeting trapping and fur sales to legislation affecting wolves and beavers, this episode connects the dots between policy proposals, activist campaigns, and political relationships.

The conversation also examines:

• The rise of professional wildlife activism across western states
• How ballot box losses are shifting strategies toward commissions and rulemaking
• The role of political appointments in wildlife policy decisions
• The tension between science-based wildlife management and ideology-driven policy

With nearly 500 Coloradans attending the March CPW Commission meeting, this episode explores the growing public attention on the future of wildlife management and the North American Model of Conservation.

If you care about hunting, trapping, ranching, conservation, or public policy affecting wildlife in the West, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

Follow Through the Gates for weekly discussions about wildlife policy, conservation, hunting advocacy, and the fight to keep wildlife management science-based.

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This is what ignoring wildlife science looks like.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommended denial.
Sportsmen came out 500 strong against about 40 antis.
The biologists are telling us that harvest is not impacting populations.
The commissioners didn't know what they were voting on yet.

Despite all of this, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission voted to ban fur. The future of conservation, hunting, and trapping in Colorado is being decided right now.

In this episode of Through the Gates, we break down what happened at the recent Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting as debate heats up over the fur ban in Colorado and what it could mean for hunters, trappers, rural communities, and the future of wildlife management.

Host Dan Gates sits down with Doug Chaisson from the Fur Institute of Canada to discuss the real impacts of fur bans, the role of trappers in wildlife science, and why sportsmen and women from across Colorado showed up in force to defend the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. 

From the economic realities of the fur trade to the political landscape shaping wildlife policy, this conversation explores what’s happening behind the scenes and why sportsmen must stay engaged in the fight for science-based wildlife management.

More than 500 sportsmen, trappers, outfitters, and conservation advocates attended the commission meeting to make their voices heard as the state considers moving forward with rulemaking that could affect fur sales and trapping regulations. 

Whether you hunt, trap, fish, or simply care about wildlife conservation, this episode explains why decisions being made today could shape the future of conservation for generations.

If you care about wildlife, conservation policy, hunting rights, and the future of trapping in North America — this conversation matters.

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In Episode 88 of Through the Gates, we join forces with  @salidagunshop   to break down the growing conflict surrounding wolf reintroduction, ballot initiatives, wildlife commission politics, and the widening urban-rural divide shaping Colorado’s future. From policy decisions affecting sportsmen to the long-term consequences for ranchers, outfitters, and conservation funding, this episode dives deep into what’s really happening behind the scenes.

We explore how political pressure, advocacy campaigns, and public perception are influencing wildlife management decisions — and what it means for hunters, anglers, landowners, and everyday Coloradans. If you care about conservation, predator management, public lands access, or the future of hunting in the West, this episode is a must-watch.

This isn’t just about wolves. It’s about who controls wildlife policy, how ballot box biology impacts science-based management, and whether traditional North American conservation principles are being reshaped in real time.

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In this special collaboration between Through the Gates and The Mountainside Podcast, Bobby Marshall sits down with Dan Gates, founder of Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management, to break down the escalating fight over wildlife conservation in Colorado.

At the center of the battle is the defense of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation — the gold standard framework that has guided science-based wildlife management for over a century.

Dan explains:
- How ballot-box biology is reshaping Colorado wildlife policy
- The political influence of Governor Jared Polis and appointed commissioners
- The impact of wolf reintroduction and anti-hunting initiatives
- How activist-driven legislation threatens science-based wildlife management
- The past victories that protected hunting and conservation funding
- The upcoming battles at the ballot, legislature, and commission levels
- Why sportsmen, ranchers, and rural communities are mobilizing

This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of conservation, politics, and the future of wildlife management in Colorado.

Whether you’re a hunter, conservationist, rancher, landowner, or concerned citizen — this conversation lays out what’s at stake and how you can get involved.

🎯 If you care about the future of wildlife, habitat funding, predator management, and the integrity of conservation policy — this episode is essential viewing.

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Is Colorado government broken?

In Episode 86 of Through the Gates, we sit down with gubernatorial candidate Greg Lopez to discuss the growing concerns over ballot initiatives, special interest influence, wildlife policy, and the future of Colorado’s constitutional republic.

From Proposition 114 and wolf reintroduction to the increasing power of direct democracy, this conversation dives deep into how ballot measures are shaping policy — sometimes without accountability — and what that means for hunters, ranchers, landowners, and everyday Colorado citizens.

Greg Lopez shares his perspective on:

The role of government vs. the will of the people

Special interests and outside money in Colorado politics

Wildlife management and the unintended consequences of ballot box biology

The future of Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Restoring accountability and constitutional governance

If you care about Colorado politics, wildlife management, constitutional government, or the impact of ballot initiatives on rural communities, this episode is a must-watch.

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Live from Sheep Show, Dan sits down with the Alaska Wild Project.

Abundant wildlife in North America didn’t happen by accident — it happened because of science-based wildlife management, the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, and the men and women willing to defend it.

In this episode Dan and AWP break down why the North American Model is the greatest conservation success story in the world — and why it’s currently under coordinated attack through politics, ballot initiatives, and misinformation. From the role of hunting and license funding to the growing disconnect between urban voters and on-the-ground wildlife realities, this episode pulls back the curtain on what’s really at stake.

Dan explains how conservation funding actually works, why professional wildlife managers must remain in charge of wildlife decisions, and what happens when emotional activism replaces biology. This is a timely, candid discussion about defending a system that works — and what sportsmen, conservationists, and everyday citizens can do to protect wildlife for future generations.

If you care about conservation, wildlife science, hunting traditions, or the future of wildlife management in Colorado and beyond, this episode is essential listening.

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In this episode of Through the Gates, we break down the growing legislative threats facing sportsmen, conservationists, landowners, and everyday Coloradans — and why these battles go far beyond hunting and fishing.

From Senate Bill 26-043, which seeks to regulate firearm barrels, to Senate Bill 26-062, targeting rodent control products and pest management, this episode exposes how policy decisions driven by ideology — not science — can directly impact public safety, food security, wildlife management, and personal freedoms.

The conversation then shifts to something every person can understand: food. We dive deep into the Wild Harvest Initiative, led by Shane Mahoney and Conservation Visions, and explain why wild food is a critical, renewable resource — not just for hunters and anglers, but for society as a whole.

You’ll hear how the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation remains the most successful conservation framework in the world, how hunting and fishing fund billions in conservation, and why disconnecting people from wild food and natural resources threatens both ecosystems and human well-being.

This episode connects the dots between:
• Wildlife conservation
• Sustainable food systems
• Public health
• Science-based management
• And the increasing influence of politics over expertise

Whether you hunt, fish, farm, or simply eat — this episode affects you.

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Jana Waller Bair, founder of Skull Bound Chronicles, joins the show to talk about hunting, storytelling, conservation, and what it means to live an unapologetic outdoor life in a world increasingly hostile to hunting traditions.

Jana shares her journey into hunting, how Skull Bound Chronicles was built to give hunters a voice, and why authentic storytelling matters more than ever. The conversation explores the challenges women face in the hunting space, the growing cultural divide around hunting, the importance of being educated and engaged, and why science-based conservation must remain the foundation of North American wildlife success.

Dan and Jana dive into the pressures coming from anti-hunting activists, the role of social media and censorship, and why hunters must stand firm, educate the public, and engage in policy conversations. From personal experiences in the field to the future of hunting media, this is an honest, thoughtful discussion about protecting wildlife, heritage, and conservation through responsible use.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, new to the outdoors, or simply interested in conservation and public lands, this episode offers insight into why hunting is not just relevant — it’s essential.

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The fight over furbearer hunting and trapping is escalating — and most people have no idea what’s actually happening.

In this episode of Through the Gates, we expose the growing political push to ban or restrict furbearer hunting, trapping, and wildlife utilization under the guise of “science” and “compassion.”

From bobcats and beavers to coyotes and ringtails, activist organizations are using misleading narratives, public pressure, and regulatory creep to undermine science-based wildlife management in Colorado and beyond.

We break down:
Why predators do not self-regulate near human populations
How fur bans quickly turn into total harvest bans
What the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission is facing right now
Why regulated trapping and hunting actually reduce conflict
How conservation funding depends on hunters and trappers

If hunting, trapping, conservation funding, or the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation matters to you, this episode explains what’s really at stake — and why staying silent is not an option.

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In this urgent episode, Dan Gates lays out the reality of the fight facing hunters, trappers, and science-based wildlife management in Colorado. From the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission to the state legislature and looming ballot initiatives, coordinated anti-hunting extremist efforts are working to dismantle the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.

Dan breaks down how emotional activism, political pressure, and misinformation are being used to bypass professional biologists, undermine regulated hunting and trapping, and reshape wildlife policy through commission votes, legislation, and ballot-box biology. This episode connects the dots between activist messaging, policy outcomes, and what’s truly at stake for wildlife, rural communities, and conservation funding.

If you care about ethical hunting, sustainable wildlife management, and defending conservation decisions rooted in science — not emotion — this episode is a must-listen.

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Dan Gates breaks down and responds directly to public comments from the loudest anti-hunting activists influencing Colorado wildlife policy, including First Gentleman Marlon Reis, Project Coyote representative Mark Surls, and Samantha Miller (Ctr. for Biological Diversity), examining how their rhetoric collides with science-based wildlife management and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.

Using their own words, Dan examines how emotional activism, misinformation, and ideological pressure are increasingly shaping wildlife decisions — often at the expense of science-based management. The episode highlights how these narratives impact Colorado Parks and Wildlife, public trust, and the future of regulated hunting, trapping, and conservation funding.

This is a critical conversation for anyone who cares about wildlife science, transparency, accountability, and keeping conservation decisions in the hands of professionals — not extremists.

Listen, share, subscribe and stay informed — the future of wildlife management depends on it.

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In our final episode of the year, Dan Gates takes a serious look at what’s coming next for Colorado’s furbearer management as the CPW Commission prepares to debate sweeping changes that could permanently reshape wildlife conservation in our state. We dig into what’s really at stake — from the future of regulated trapping and ethical fur use, to the role furbearers play in healthy ecosystems, to the danger of emotional politics replacing science-based wildlife management.

We talk about what these proposals could mean for Colorado’s wildlife, ranching communities, working landscapes, and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. If you care about science, sustainability, ethical use, and real conservation, this is a conversation you need to hear.

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In this episode, Dan updates us on some of the recent news coming from Colorado breaking down the political influence on Colorado wildlife management and the real-world consequences now playing out inside Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

The discussion begins with the resignations of Director Jeff Davis and Commissioner Murphy Robinson. Dan explains why these departures matter, what they signal about internal pressure, and how politics are increasingly overriding professional wildlife expertise.

From there, the episode dives into beaver management, furbearer policy, and how trapping bans and public perception are reshaping effective conservation tools. Dan also addresses deer population research, declining herd health, and how predator management—or the lack of it—directly impacts big game across Colorado.

This conversation ties each issue back to the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, explaining how funding, data-driven decisions, and professional biologists are being sidelined by emotion, ballot initiatives, and political optics. For hunters, conservationists, and anyone who cares about where their food comes from, this episode lays out why Colorado has become ground zero for a national wildlife policy fight.

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In this unique Through the Gates episode, Dan visits Colorado Gators in the San Luis Valley—one of the most unexpected reptile sanctuaries in the West. Chad Hacking walks us through the history of the farm, how a tilapia operation became an alligator rescue, and why hundreds of gators now thrive in a place better known for snow than swamps.

Hear the real story behind reptile rescues, why alligators don’t make good pets, how invasive snakes became a crisis in the South, and what it takes to care for hundreds of crocodilians at 7,500 feet. From reptile behavior to wildlife education, this episode blends conservation, curiosity, and Colorado oddities in a way you won’t forget.

Perfect for listeners interested in wildlife sanctuaries, conservation, invasive species, reptiles, and the North American Model.

Listen, share, subscribe and stay informed — the future of wildlife management depends on it.

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In this special international episode of Through the Gates, Dan sits down in remote Porcupine Plains, Saskatchewan with Bryon Patchin, owner of Piwie Lake Outfitters and a lifelong trapper, guide, fur buyer, and outdoorsman.

Bryon shares a rare inside look at what it means to truly live off the land—from 40 years of trapping, guiding whitetail and black bear hunters, and buying furs across some of the most remote regions in Canada. He explains how Indigenous trappers survive without roads, how registered traplines work, the challenges of fluctuating fur prices, and the realities of predator–prey cycles, wolf pressure, and habitat conditions.

This episode highlights the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, sustainable use, and the deep cultural connection rural Canadians have with wildlife management. It also draws important parallels to the challenges U.S. sportsmen face with misinformation, anti-hunting activism, and the growing disconnect between urban emotionalism and real conservation.

If you care about hunting, trapping, land-based heritage, or understanding where your wildlife conservation dollars go—this is a must-listen.

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Colorado is becoming the nation’s testing ground for aggressive anti-hunting and anti-management efforts — and in this episode, we break down exactly what’s happening, who’s behind the push, and how it threatens the future of wildlife conservation in the West.

This conversation in conjunction with Cable Smith's Lone Star Outdoor Show dives deep into the rising political pressure on wildlife policy, ballot-box biology, predator management, wolf reintroduction, misinformation campaigns, rural vs urban value clashes, and the growing movement to eliminate hunting opportunities in Colorado.

If you care about hunting, conservation, wildlife science, or the future of outdoor heritage, this is a must-listen episode.

✔ How anti-hunting groups are targeting Colorado
✔ Why ballot initiatives are becoming the new battleground
✔ The real science behind predator management
✔ Why hunters are losing ground — and how to fight back
✔ What the public doesn’t understand about wildlife agencies
✔ How social media shapes false narratives about conservation

Listen, share, and stay informed — the future of wildlife management depends on it.

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In this powerful joint episode of Through the Gates and Rokcast, Sam Weaver sits down once again with Dan Gates, Executive Director of Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management (CRWM), to break down the escalating fight for science-based wildlife management in Colorado.

Dan explains the behind-the-scenes political pressure, legislative maneuvering, and activist tactics threatening hunting, fishing, agriculture, and wildlife conservation across the West. From the mountain lion hunting ban proposals, to attacks on furbearer management, to the wolf introduction fallout — this is the most in-depth look at what’s REALLY happening in Colorado’s wildlife policy arena.

If you care about hunting, conservation, predator management, trapping, houndsmen, wildlife biology, ranching, Western values, or public lands, this episode is required listening. Learn why Colorado has become the national battleground for anti-hunting groups — and what sportsmen and women around the country MUST do to fight back.

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In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan sits down with Randy Jackson, founder of Rustic Living / Rustic Log Furniture, to explore how true craftsmanship, sustainable forestry, and Colorado heritage come together in heirloom-quality furniture. Randy shares how a simple Mother’s Day project grew into a decades-long business built on responsibly harvested dead-standing aspen, rigorous quality control, and a deep commitment to reducing waste through long-lasting, handcrafted products.

Listeners will discover how sustainably sourced forest products support both healthy ecosystems and local economies, why natural aspen creates timeless rustic pieces, and how Randy’s team works closely with the Forest Service to remove dead timber that would otherwise fuel catastrophic fire risk. You’ll also hear how his passion for design, engineering, and innovation turned Rustic Living into one of Colorado’s most respected furniture makers.

If you care about sustainable home goods, handcrafted quality, thoughtful use of natural resources, or Colorado’s tradition of working with the land—this episode is for you.

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In this urgent episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates sits down with special guest Swartout to break down why Colorado is entering its “Dunkirk moment” in the battle to defend the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. Just as Winston Churchill rallied a nation to protect its future, hunters, ranchers, biologists, and Colorado citizens must now stand together against political pressure, misinformation, and agenda-driven attacks on hunting and science-based management.

This conversation lays out what’s at stake:
• The growing disconnect between urban political forces and rural working landscapes
• Threats to predator management, wildlife funding, and the hunting tradition
• Why ballot-box biology has become the greatest danger to wildlife conservation
• What every Coloradan can do right now to defend science, conservation, and our hunting heritage

If you care about wildlife, responsible management, and protecting access for future generations, this is an episode you cannot miss. This is our Dunkirk. This is the moment we choose whether to fight — or lose what has protected wildlife for over a century.


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Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commissioner Murphy Robinson joins Through the Gates for the most transparent, engaging, and wide-ranging interview he’s ever given. Murphy opens up about his lifelong love of fishing and hunting, how he unexpectedly ended up on the CPW Commission, what it’s like navigating political pressure, and his mission to keep wildlife management science-based, ethical, and accessible for future generations.

Murphy dives deep into the realities of modern wildlife policy — the growing urban-rural divide, how politics threatens responsible conservation, the impact of ballot-box biology, and why both hunters and non-hunters need to understand the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. He also shares personal stories about raising his kids in the outdoors, learning to hunt on his own, building trust with advocates and critics, and hosting “Hunter & Angler Happy Hours” across Colorado.

If you care about Colorado wildlife, CPW decisions, hunting access, conservation funding, or keeping politics out of wildlife management, this is an episode you cannot miss.

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