A Colorado College poll shows that 72% of Westerners prioritize conservation of public lands over oil and gas development, with only 24% in favor of increased drilling. This 48-point margin reflects the highest support for conservation in 15 years, with a strong consensus among diverse political affiliations. Respondents overwhelmingly support federal efforts against climate change and maintaining national monument protections amid political challenges.
A recent poll from Colorado College indicates a strong preference among Westerners for environmental conservation over oil and gas development. The survey found that 72% of respondents favor protecting clean air and water, marking a 2% increase from the previous year. Significantly, only 24% showed support for increased drilling on public lands, leading to a favorable margin of 48 points for conservation—the highest in 15 years.
Katrina Miller-Stevens from Colorado College emphasized the consistent and robust consensus favoring public land conservation across political affiliations. The poll included diverse participants from eight Western states, highlighting a collective rejection of the rollback of national monument protections.
The survey was conducted with a mix of Republican and Democratic pollsters, involving over 3,300 respondents primarily identifying as conservative or independent. Despite political affiliations, there remains unity among voters advocating for ethical stewardship of public land amid rising oil and gas production.
Amidst political upheaval, including significant lay-offs in federal departments, the Trump administration’s appointments of oil and gas industry allies are drawing considerable pushback. Local government initiatives in states like Utah to reclaim federal land authority have largely been unsuccessful.
Rachael Hamby from the Center for Western Priorities noted that many of the Trump administration’s proposals contradict the desires of Westerners regarding public lands. Poll results revealed a substantial 87% support for career officials making public land decisions rather than politically appointed individuals with industry ties.
Most of those surveyed, 73%, backed federal measures against climate change. Approval levels for climate action varied significantly among states, indicating diverse political landscapes. Additionally, there is a strong desire—approximately 90%—to maintain recent national monument designations.
Broad support was also expressed for conservation easements for private landowners and other nature-based solutions to manage water quality and forest health. Looking ahead, Hamby warned that straying from constituents’ preferences could have electoral consequences for elected officials.
The Colorado College poll reveals overwhelming support among Westerners for conservation and against increased oil and gas drilling. Despite political pressures and ongoing industry influences in public land management, there is a clear preference for environmental stewardship across the region. Upcoming administration actions could impact public lands significantly, making it crucial for political leaders to heed this widespread sentiment among their constituents.
Original Source: www.hcn.org
