Range Riding program gears up for 2026

On Jan. 5, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will be opening up Requests for Proposals (RFP) for its range riding program for the 2026 season through the Colorado Vendor Self Service. Established in 2025, CPW’s range riding program is designed to support livestock producers by providing a consistent human presence, monitoring, and management in areas where wolves are present. 

Founded in 2025 — thanks in large part to funding from the Born to Be Wild License Plate — this state contracted range riding program is the first of its kind in Colorado. The range riders contracted through this program are trained by veteran riders and livestock producers from across the west who bring decades of experience managing wolf-livestock conflict. 

This training builds on applicant's knowledge of wildlife track and sign, best range riding practices, tools and technology, as well as livestock monitoring . During the open range season these contracted range riders work closely with producers to identify potential wolf activity near and around livestock.

Applications for this year’s range riding season will be open from Jan. 5 through Feb. 6. Additional information will be available through the Colorado Vendor Self Service website. Applicants are not required, but are encouraged, to register on the vendor self service site in order to download RFP documents and information.

Applicants can also mail their applications to CPW Headquarters (6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216) or hand deliver their applications to the Gunnison office of the CPW at 200 S. Spruce St.