SB 19-181 (2019)
Colorado Senate Bill 19-181 fundamentally changed oil and gas regulation in Colorado, prioritizing public health, safety, and environmental protection (including wildlife) over oil and gas development.
Key Impact: The Energy & Carbon Management Commission (ECMC) must now minimize adverse impacts to protected species and their habitats.
High Priority Habitat (HPH)
ECMC designates High Priority Habitat areas that require enhanced protections. These include:
- Tier 1: Highest priority (federally listed, state threatened species)
- Tier 2: State species of concern, important habitats
- PHMA/GHMA: Sage grouse Priority/General Habitat Management Areas
Turbine Curtailment
Wind energy operators implement seasonal curtailment (shutdown) schedules to protect birds during critical periods:
- Eagles: Breeding season protections, nest buffer enforcement
- Sage Grouse: Lek activity periods (spring breeding displays)
- Grassland Birds: Nesting and production area timing restrictions
Additional Notes
Bat Species Conservation: Winter hibernacula data requires a separate dedicated dashboard and is not included in this analysis.
