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INTRODUC'I'ION When resources are destroyed incrementally over decades, it is sometimes difficult for succeeding generations to recognize the cumulative loss. Such is the case with we11ands. Wetlands have generally not fared well in modem sOI~iety. Colorado has lost wetlands resources since European settlement (estimates indicate a loss of 1 milJion acres) and all of its livillg residents - human, wildlife, and plant - have been affected by the loss. Not surpdsingly, d~:clines in many wildlife species are attributable to the degrada,tion and destruction of the wetlalllds habitat base upon which they depend. In fact, the Colorado Natural Heritage Program c1nssifies many species of wetlands-dependent birds and amplu.1Jians as "rare and imperiled." If tlris habitat loss continues more species are likely to be similarly classified. Within Colorado, rapid population growth, increased urbanization and expanding and intensified agrimlture are all accelerating the pressures on remaining wetlands (estimated to he only 1.5% of the state's surface area), and rapidly narrowing the window of opportunity to correct the situation. Recently, society has recognized the need to reverse the trend of declin,~ in wetlands. Environmental organizations, federal :!gencies, state agencies, municipalities, and the private sector have responded by becoming more involved in the protection of the remaining wetlands in our state and nation. The Division of Wildlife (DOW) has similarly recognized this need. The DOW is rapidly evolving into an agency with an increased emphasis on wetlands conservation and management. It has recently created lmd filled the position of Wetlands Program Coordinator; has examined its wetlands efforts; and has developed a Wetlands Program (WP), which endeavors to coordinate all the agency's wetlands-related efforts including waterfowl, endangered species, recreation, education, watchable wildlife, hunting, and fishing. The WP will provide strategic plans and implementation plans for the DOW's wetlands dforts. Given this evolution, the DOW was poised to propose the Wetlands lllitiative (WI) to Gmat Outdoors Colorado (OOCO), The WI outlines a strategy to deliver on-the-ground products of the most tangible type: the conservation of wetlands, alive with wildlife, and dch in tile opportunity for learning and reconnecting with nature. The WI is a cooperative ventW'l: between partners that have a broad interest in wetlands with specific wetllmds conservation goals, The WI seizes the opportunity to produce a legacy of protected wetlands. Given the development of an infrastru,l)tufe and mechanisms to conserv~: wetlands through a variety of means, funding has become a critical factOI'. Gn:at Outdoors Colorado can truly serve as a leading partner in the conservatioJll of the wetlands resoW'ce of the state and its associated wildlife through its Legacy Projects Program. The window of opportunity to conserve wetlands, associated wildlife and habitats is open, but for how long? Partners are in place with tremendous expertis~: in wetlands conservation and the desire to expand current efforts. Willillg-to-participate communities, non-governmental organizations, and citizens are distn1Juted throughout the state. Private land owners that own