Episode 57 - Protecting Colorado’s Hunting Rights Through Conservation and Female Leadership

Colorado’s hunting future depends on informed sportsmen willing to protect wildlife, heritage, and public access. Hunting is about far more than filling a tag. It's about stewardship, personal responsibility, and protecting the traditions that connect people to wildlife and the outdoors. Colorado hunter and conservation advocate Cassie Melvin shares her journey from growing up camping and fishing in Georgia to becoming a passionate public land hunter in the Rocky Mountains. She explains how backpack hunting, elk hunting, and harvesting wild game reshaped her understanding of conservation while giving her a deeper appreciation for where food comes from. The conversation explores why hunters are among the strongest advocates for healthy wildlife populations, how science-based wildlife management benefits everyone, and why keeping those decisions in the hands of professional biologists matters. Cassie also discusses Colorado's recent wildlife ballot initiatives, the debate surrounding wolf reintroduction, mountain lion hunting, and why protecting the right to hunt and fish has become one of the state's most important conservation issues. Listeners will also hear practical encouragement for women interested in hunting, advice on finding mentors, building confidence in the field, and becoming active voices for the future of hunting and fishing. The episode wraps up with stories from Colorado elk season, favorite public land destinations, backpack hunting gear, and the outdoor experiences that continue to fuel a lifelong passion for conservation. Follow the show for more weekly hunting, fishing, conservation, and outdoor conversations. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr