Forest Health Council considers Capitol education day; DNR participation allowed with limits

Members of the Colorado Forest Health Council’s legislative committee discussed plans for an education-focused presence at the state Capitol to showcase wildfire mitigation and related work.

Allison Lerch, staff to the council, said she had consulted with the Attorney General’s office and DNR leadership and reported that “DNR employees can be a part of this” provided the event remains an education and awareness opportunity and the state is not paying for refreshments. Lerch said she ran the guidance by Director Dan Gibbs and the deputy policy director and would circulate the AG office language to the group.

Committee members considered several formats: a small on-capitol breakfast to catch legislators as they enter the chambers, an off-site reception immediately after session hours, or a larger unified “forest day” that would draw community organizations to the Capitol. Mark Morgan and others flagged past efforts, the Colorado Timber Industry Association’s interest in sponsorship, and logistical constraints; multiple speakers urged caution about inadvertently crossing into lobbying.

Timing was a central topic. The committee noted the legislative session ends May 7 and that Capitol calendars are crowded; several members said organizing a high-quality, well-staffed event this session would be difficult and suggested planning for January of the next year. Commissioner Veronica Medina urged action this year given budget pressures, saying a modest presence could still make a difference.

The committee asked Allison Lerch to research options, confirm what DNR staff can legally do for off-site versus on-capitol events, and return with guidance at the next meeting. Members were asked to email interest in participating to Courtney so a planning group can form.

The meeting ended with a motion to adjourn.