HECHO Statement on 2026 Conservation in the West Poll Results
“The poll results show that public lands and water are issues that transcend party lines. The overwhelming concern from Western voters about park staffing cuts, reduced firefighting capacity, and the increasing threat of catastrophic wildfires underscores the urgent need for proactive, responsible land management,” said Camilla Simon, executive director of Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO). “At the same time, strong support for a regional agreement to reduce water use in the Colorado River Basin demonstrates broad understanding that we must manage our shared resources responsibly and collaboratively.”
The poll surveyed voters in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. Key findings include:
76% oppose selling public lands to private companies to develop housing
75% oppose allowing Congress to override locally-led land management plans
89% support charging oil and gas companies for cleanup after drilling instead of taxpayers
83% are very concerned that fewer employees are maintaining national public lands
91% are concerned about reduced firefighting capacity
83% support an agreement for all states in the region to reduce their water usage to preserve the health of the Colorado River
85% say that issues involving public lands, waters, and wildlife are important for deciding whether or not to support an elected public official
Complete poll results can be found here.