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<br />OOl)547 <br /> <br />II. PURPOSE <br /> <br />The purpose of this Policy is to provide long-term vision and guidance to THE DIVISION OF <br />WilDLIFE in developing aquatic resource and fishery management activities that address <br />both recreational and non-recreational fish populations and the public use of those <br />resources. <br /> <br />Careful management of Colorado's fishery resources is in the best interests of the state and <br />is required to meet the legislative mandate and mission of the ColoradoOi~sion of Wild life <br />in light of complex issues. Growing human population and urban areas,agricUltural, <br />domestic, and industrial. demand for water often compete for the same flows and aquatic <br />habitat that supports fish populations. Fish health concerns, recovery and conservation of <br />aquatic wildlife and continued demand for economically important recreational fishing <br />opportunities have intensified competition for water-based resources. <br /> <br />The challenge squarely before the Wildlife Commission, the Division od Wildlife and the <br />citizens of Colorado is to make appropriate decisions when considering these competing <br />objectives. <br /> <br />It is our vision that these policies are advocacy statements for the health and welfare of <br />fishery resources that are important to the quality of life in the State of Colorado. <br /> <br />This Policy affirms the following principles: <br /> <br />1. The long-term health of aquatic systems, including both habitat and <br />fisheries, is paramount. <br /> <br />2. Providing recreational fishing opportunity will be an important objective <br />of the Colorado Division of Wildlife. <br /> <br />3. The protection of native species and their habitats is apriority. <br /> <br />4. The challenge of meeting the needs of native species while maintaining <br />recreational fishing will require constant attention. <br /> <br />5. Fishery management is an important contributor to Colorado's economy. <br /> <br />6. Management of fishery programs will be conducted in a cost-effective manner. <br /> <br />4 <br />