Show notes
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 CommissionHer published work on "Ballot Box Biology"The debate over who should shape wildlife policy—wildlife biologists or broader public valuesWolf management and predator coexistenceWildlife for All and the broader animal advocacy movementColorado Parks & Wildlife Commission appointmentsScience-based wildlife managementThe North American Model of Wildlife ConservationWhy Dan believes Colorado has become the national epicenter of wildlife policy battlesHow the Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish initiative fits into the broader strategy to protect hunting and fishing opportunitiesThis 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.SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADOSign the Initiative 302 petition: savecoheritage.orgDonate to CRWM: savethehuntcolorado.com/support-usLearn more: savethehuntcolorado.comFollow CRWM on Facebook: facebook.com/savethehuntcoloradoFollow CRWM on Instagram: instagram.com/c.r.w.mCHAPTERS00:00 – Introduction: The Web Grows03:15 – Why This Appointment Matters08:10 – Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission Update13:45 – Who Is Dr. Rebecca Niemiec?22:30 – Academic Research & Ballot Box Biology34:10 – Predator Advocacy & Human Carnivore Coexistence46:20 – Wildlife for All and Related Advocacy Networks57:30 – Should Wildlife Biologists Drive Wildlife Policy?1:10:20 – Science-Based Wildlife Management vs. Values-Based Campaigns1:22:45 – The Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission's Direction1:33:50 – Why Colorado Is the National Battleground1:41:40 – The Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish1:47:30 – How You Can Get Involved