Advocating for Ranchers and Farmers
As a member of the Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources Committee, I am an outspoken advocate and leader for our farmers and ranchers. Our agriculturalists are cornerstone members of our community in Northwest Colorado, and I am proud to advocate for the needs of our farmers and ranches. We must balance the needs of the agricultural community and the threats of climate change to make sure that agriculture has a bright future in Colorado. I have addressed the needs of farmers and ranchers through irrigation efficiency standards, mental health resources and workforce development programs. I've also pushed for compensation for livestock owners affected by wolf reintroduction.
My 2026 Sponsored Legislation:
HB26-1034: Modifications to Standards for Irrigation Equipment
Fixes gaps in irrigation equipment standards, cutting water waste and lowering costs for Colorado farmers and ranchers
My 2024 Sponsored Legislation:
SB24-055: Agricultural Mental Health Care
This bipartisan law creates the Agricultural Liaison role within the BHA to guarantee that farmers and ranchers are not forgotten by the broader mental health industry.
SB24-126: Conservation Easement Tax Credit
This bipartisan law helps Colorado property owners sustainably manage their land by extending access to conservation easements.
SB24-031: Local Enforcement Noxious Weeds
This law establishes a board of county commissioners to approve the assessment and collection of fines for the violation of local noxious weed laws.
My 2023 Sponsored Legislation:
SB23-256: Management Of Gray Wolves Reintroduction
We ensured that prior to the reintroduction of wolves, a 10J Rule had been granted to Colorado from the U.S. Department of Interior. Vetoed by the Governor.
HB23-1094: Extend Agricultural Workforce Development Program
We expanded a program that provides financial incentives to farmers, ranchers, and agricultural businesses to hire interns.
SB23-255: Wolf Depredation Compensation Fund
This law supports livestock owners who will be most impacted by wolf reintroduction by creating adequate compensation for depredation.
As your representative, I will continue to:
Support the needs of farmers and ranchers.
Preserve agricultural lifestyles and values while looking to the future.
Protect the Western Slope’s water resources.
Address threats to crops and livestock at the state level.
Work to pass legislation to support ranchers and farmers as we navigate the negative impacts of wolf reintroduction.