Ballot measure aims to shift Colorado sporting-goods tax revenue to land, water and wildfire projects

Colorado voters this November will decide whether to direct a share of sales tax revenue from sporting goods — including bicycles and skiing equipment — toward land and water conservation, wildfire prevention and expanding outdoor recreation.

Supporters say the measure is needed to protect Colorado’s natural resources before further damage occurs.

If passed, Proposition 137 is projected to generate $175 million a year from sales taxes on equipment for activities like hunting, fishing, camping, cycling, boating and recreational sports.

Of that $175 million, $83 million will be allocated to wildfire prevention and water protection, $83 million will go toward water and land conservation, $4.3 million will go toward promoting economic development and workforce training for the outdoor recreation industry and $4.3 million will go toward increasing access to the outdoors for kids and families.