Reid DeWalt, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, gave an update on the population status of the Lesser Prairie Chicken (LPC) in Colorado and the listing and delisting of the bird under the federal Endangered Species Act, including the recent delisting of the bird in 2025. He discussed the Sand Sagebrush Generational Grassland Stronghold as a permanent protection for the LPC that is currently in development.

Dr. Nicole Rosmarino, State Land Board, told the committee about the LPC Stewardship Action Plan, which is a five year plan to use state trust lands to help protect the bird. She discussed the conversations the board has been having with agricultural lessees to utilize the land for the LPC.

James Lester, Colorado Energy Office, gave an overview of the office's partnerships with other agencies. He told the committee about state renewable energy and energy transmission projects, and the requirements from Senate Bill 24-212.

The panelists responded to questions from the committee regarding the study in the bill, LPC habitat, and the various recovery efforts and measures. Liza Rossi, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, responded to questions from the committee about LPC habitat and conservation programs within the Farm Services Agency.

Quintana Hayden, American Clean Power Association, told the committee about power development requirements and how they interact with the LPC's federal status and protections. She spoke about the challenges associated with balancing energy development with LPC protections. Chris Menges introduced himself.

Dallas May, May Ranch, Lamar, CO, gave an overview of his background. He told the committee about the risks of the degradation and loss of species' habitat. He spoke about the opportunity to partner with the SLB and renewable energy companies. He discussed mitigation dollars and the potential to require they be spent in Colorado and used to invest in habitat and the affected rural communities.

Will Duggins, Westervelt Ecological Services, told the committee about his organization's investments in conservation and habitats. He discussed his desire to have mitigation efforts be required by law. He spoke about the changing federal classification of the LPC and how it has impacted recovery efforts.

Cheyenne County Commissioner R.J. Jolly gave an overview of his background. He told the committee about his community's efforts around species recovery while also relying on renewable energy and agriculture for jobs.