The State Trust Lands Conservation and Recreation Work Group, established by HB25-1332, is set to begin meetings in the fall of 2025. The group’s purpose is to develop recommendations that promote conservation, climate resilience, biodiversity, and sustainable recreation on state trust lands.
“This new Work Group has an opportunity to make important recommendations to improve opportunities for conservation and recreation on lands managed by the State Land Board,” said Department of Natural Resources Executive Director Dan Gibbs. “I am proud of the work the State Land Board has done to promote these uses of state trust lands. The Department and State Land Board Commissioners and staff look forward to considering the recommendations developed by this Work Group. I also appreciate the time and expertise the Work Group members will contribute to this effort.”
Appointments have been made from several government leaders and organizations. Governor Jared Polis appointed Martin Herz for economic expertise; Steven Silverman for legal expertise; Chad Hixon as a representative of motorized recreation; and Lloyd Athearn representing nonmotorized recreation.
Speaker of the House appointments include Matt Samelson from the Public School Capital Construction Assistance Board; Aaron Citron representing an environmental organization with land conservation knowledge; Sean Chambers with water resource management experience; and Tyler Garrett as an agricultural producer or representative.
President of the Senate appointee Drew McMahan represents renewable energy interests with leasing experience on state trust lands.
Senate Minority Leader appointments are Nathan Bennet, an oil and gas operator experienced in leasing state trust land property, and Zandon Bray, who represents agriculture.
House Majority Leader appointees are Commissioner Jonathan Houck from Gunnison County, Suzanne O’Neill representing wildlife conservation interests, and Eric Komppa from a commercial real estate entity experienced in leasing state land property.
House Minority Leader appointees are Jamie Jost, another oil and gas operator with relevant leasing experience, and Richard Holtorf representing agriculture.
Councilwoman Linda Baker was appointed by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe.
The Department of Natural Resources expects additional statutorily required appointments soon. The Consensus Building Institute (CBI) will facilitate group activities. According to HB25-1332, recommendations must be submitted by September 1, 2026.
