Through the Gates

Dan Gates - Save the Hunt
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Informing the Public on the Benefits of Hunting and Fishing along with the importance of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and Responsible Science Based Wildlife Management

  1. 1d ago

    Ep. 109 - Colorado's Wildlife Is at a Tipping Point | What Really Happened at the CPW Commission

    Colorado's wildlife management is at a crossroads. In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates breaks down one of the most consequential Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission meetings in recent memory and explains why sportsmen, anglers, conservationists, landowners, and anyone who values science-based wildlife management should be paying attention. From controversial furbearer bag limit decisions to growing concerns about politics overriding wildlife science, this episode explains what happened during the July Commission meeting, why those decisions matter, and how they connect to Colorado's proposed Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish (Initiative 302). Dan discusses: • The recent CPW Commission decisions on furbearer regulations • Why science-based wildlife management is under increasing pressure • The role of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation • Why the constitutional amendment does not remove management authority from Colorado Parks and Wildlife • The dangers of ballot-box biology • Why hunters and anglers need to become more engaged before future wildlife decisions are made Whether you're a hunter, angler, wildlife professional, or simply someone who believes wildlife should be managed using science instead of emotion or politics, this conversation provides important context for the future of conservation in Colorado. If you enjoy the podcast, please Like, Subscribe, and Share to help spread the message. SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO Sign the Initiative 302 petition: savecoheritage.org Donate to CRWM: savethehuntcolorado.com/support-us Learn more: savethehuntcolorado.com Follow CRWM on Facebook: facebook.com/savethehuntcolorado Follow CRWM on Instagram: instagram.com/c.r.w.m

  2. Jul 21

    Ep. 108 - Jason Matzinger: The Filmmaker Changing How America Sees Hunting

    For decades, outdoor television has focused on the hunt. Jason Matzinger has spent his career telling the story behind it. In this episode of Through the Gates, we sit down with the creator of Into High Country and one of conservation's most respected filmmakers to explore why hunting is about far more than the harvest. Jason explains how storytelling can bridge the gap between hunters and non-hunters by showcasing the science, stewardship, and wildlife conservation that make the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation the most successful conservation system in the world. From his groundbreaking documentaries with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Mule Deer Foundation, Wild Sheep Foundation, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, and Boone & Crockett Club to his upcoming documentary on grizzly bear recovery, Jason shares why he believes conservation—not trophies—should always be the hero of the story. We discuss: • Why modern hunting media often misses the bigger conservation message • How film can reach audiences outside the hunting community • The truth about "trophy hunting" and selective wildlife management • The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation • Why grizzly bears should be managed through science—not politics • The role hunters play in funding wildlife conservation • The future of conservation storytelling If you've ever wondered how hunting became North America's greatest conservation success story—or how we can better communicate that story to the public—this is an episode you won't want to miss. Subscribe for more conversations protecting hunting, fishing, wildlife management, and the future of conservation. SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO Sign the Initiative 302 petition: savecoheritage.org Donate to CRWM: savethehuntcolorado.com/support-us Learn more: savethehuntcolorado.com Follow CRWM on Facebook: facebook.com/savethehuntcolorado Follow CRWM on Instagram: instagram.com/c.r.w.m

  3. Jul 14

    Ep. 107 - The Fight for Hunting's Future: Colorado's Constitutional Battle Over Wildlife Management

    What happens when wildlife policy is driven by politics instead of science? In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates joins the Wild Sheep Foundation's Sheep Fever Podcast for one of the most important conversations happening in conservation today. From Colorado's proposed Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish amendment to Oregon's sweeping IP28 initiative, this episode exposes how organized animal-rights campaigns are reshaping wildlife policy across North America—and why sportsmen, conservationists, ranchers, anglers, and anyone who values science-based wildlife management should be paying attention. Dan explains how Colorado has become ground zero for ballot-box biology, politically appointed wildlife commissions, predator management controversies, trapping restrictions, wolf reintroduction, and coordinated efforts to replace decades of professional wildlife science with ideology. More importantly, he explains what can be done to protect the future of hunting, fishing, conservation funding, and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation before similar efforts spread to additional states. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more conversations exploring conservation, wildlife policy, hunting, fishing, and the future of the North American Model. SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO Sign the Initiative 302 petition: savecoheritage.org Donate to CRWM: savethehuntcolorado.com/support-us Learn more: savethehuntcolorado.com Follow CRWM on Facebook: facebook.com/savethehuntcolorado Follow CRWM on Instagram: instagram.com/c.r.w.m 00:00 Introduction: Why Colorado Is Ground Zero for Wildlife Politics 02:42 Meet Dan Gates & The Conservation Fight 06:15 The Growing Animal Rights Movement Across America 10:48 Oregon's IP28 Explained 15:30 How Activists Test Messaging Before Ballot Measures 19:40 Why Colorado Became the Blueprint 24:15 The Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish 30:18 Why This Amendment Matters 35:55 Science vs Politics in Wildlife Management 41:20 Ballot Box Biology Explained 46:50 The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation 51:35 Why Hunting & Fishing Fund Conservation 57:42 What the Amendment Actually Does 1:03:12 Does It Change Hunting Regulations? 1:08:15 Colorado's History of Ballot Initiatives 1:14:02 Why Wildlife Commissions Matter 1:19:40 Political Appointments vs Wildlife Science 1:25:12 The Fur Ban Controversy 1:30:45 Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission 1:37:10 The Cost of Political Wildlife Management 1:42:55 Wolves, Predators & Wildlife Policy 1:49:20 Why Science Must Lead Wildlife Decisions 1:54:48 Conservation Funding Challenges 2:00:15 Who Should Pay for Wildlife? 2:05:50 Public Education Is the Missing Piece 2:11:30 Why Hunters Must Tell Their Story Better 2:17:42 Conservation Beyond Hunters 2:23:08 Creating a National Conservation Message 2:29:10 Building the Future of Hunting Advocacy 2:34:15 Protecting Wildlife for Future Generations 2:38:40 Final Thoughts & Call to Action

  4. Jul 7

    Ep. 106 - The Web Grows: Polis' Latest Appointee Says Biologists Shouldn't Decide Wildlife Policy

    Is Colorado's wildlife policy being guided by science—or by ideology? In this episode of Through the Gates, Dan Gates takes an in-depth look at Governor Jared Polis' latest appointment to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission: Dr. Rebecca Niemiec. Dan examines Dr. Niemiec's published research, public statements, academic work, and professional affiliations, arguing they reveal a consistent philosophy that challenges the traditional role of wildlife biologists in wildlife policy and management. The discussion explores her work surrounding "Ballot Box Biology," predator coexistence, animal policy, and what Dan contends is a growing movement to shift wildlife decision-making away from science-based management and toward values-driven public campaigns. This episode also revisits what Dan calls the growing "web" connecting political appointments, academia, predator advocacy, and animal-rights organizations influencing wildlife policy in Colorado. Topics include: Dr. Rebecca Niemiec's appointment to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife CommissionHer published work on "Ballot Box Biology"The debate over who should shape wildlife policy—wildlife biologists or broader public valuesWolf management and predator coexistenceWildlife for All and the broader animal advocacy movementColorado Parks & Wildlife Commission appointmentsScience-based wildlife managementThe North American Model of Wildlife ConservationWhy Dan believes Colorado has become the national epicenter of wildlife policy battlesHow the Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish initiative fits into the broader strategy to protect hunting and fishing opportunities This episode examines one of the most consequential wildlife appointments in Colorado's recent history and what it could mean for hunters, anglers, ranchers, wildlife professionals, and everyone invested in the future of wildlife conservation. SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO Sign the Initiative 302 petition: savecoheritage.org Donate to CRWM: savethehuntcolorado.com/support-us Learn more: savethehuntcolorado.com Follow CRWM on Facebook: facebook.com/savethehuntcolorado Follow CRWM on Instagram: instagram.com/c.r.w.m CHAPTERS00:00 – Introduction: The Web Grows 03:15 – Why This Appointment Matters 08:10 – Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission Update 13:45 – Who Is Dr. Rebecca Niemiec? 22:30 – Academic Research & Ballot Box Biology 34:10 – Predator Advocacy & Human Carnivore Coexistence 46:20 – Wildlife for All and Related Advocacy Networks 57:30 – Should Wildlife Biologists Drive Wildlife Policy? 1:10:20 – Science-Based Wildlife Management vs. Values-Based Campaigns 1:22:45 – The Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission's Direction 1:33:50 – Why Colorado Is the National Battleground 1:41:40 – The Constitutional Right to Hunt & Fish 1:47:30 – How You Can Get Involved

  5. Jun 30

    Ep. 105 - The Storyteller Fighting for Hunting: Robbie Kroger, Origins & The Future of Conservation

    What happens when a wildlife scientist, filmmaker, conservationist, and hunter decides to change the narrative around hunting? In this episode of Through the Gates, Daniel Gates sits down with Dr. Robbie Kroger, founder of the Origins Foundation (formerly Blood Origins), to discuss the power of storytelling in conservation, the future of hunting advocacy, wildlife documentaries, global conservation projects, Colorado wildlife politics, Oregon's controversial IP 28 initiative, and why hunters must become better ambassadors for wildlife conservation. Robbie shares his journey from South Africa to earning a PhD in wetland ecology, working as a professor and scientist, and ultimately launching one of the most influential storytelling platforms in the hunting and conservation world. From lion conservation and elephant documentaries to wolves in Colorado, rhino projects in Africa, New Zealand's Tahr controversy, and the growing battle over wildlife policy, this conversation explores how stories can shape the future of hunting, fishing, and conservation worldwide. If you care about hunting, conservation, wildlife management, public lands, science-based policy, and protecting the future of our outdoor heritage, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Topics Include: Origins Foundation (formerly Blood Origins)Robbie Kroger's conservation journeyHunting and conservation storytellingColorado wolf managementLionHeart documentaryGlobal wildlife conservation projectsRhino, elephant, cheetah, and wolf conservationNew Zealand Tahr controversyOregon IP 28 initiativeHunting advocacy and public perceptionWildlife policy and ballot initiativesThe future of conservation media SUPPORT THE RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH IN COLORADO Sign the Initiative 302 petition: savecoheritage.org Donate to CRWM: savethehuntcolorado.com/support-us Learn more: savethehuntcolorado.com Follow CRWM on Facebook: facebook.com/savethehuntcolorado Follow CRWM on Instagram: instagram.com/c.r.w.m Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode to help spread the conservation message.

  6. Jun 23

    Ep. 104 - Telling the Full Story of Conservation ,TOM OPRE, Shepherds of Wildlife Society

    What happens when wildlife policy is driven by emotion instead of science? In this episode of Through the Gates, Daniel Gates sits down with filmmaker, conservation advocate, and Shepherds of Wildlife Society founder Tom Opre for an in-depth conversation about hunting, conservation, ballot initiatives, predator management, wolves, trapping, rural communities, wildlife policy, and the growing disconnect between urban society and the natural world. Tom shares stories from decades of global travel and filmmaking, including work in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America, while discussing how sustainable use conservation, hunting, trapping, and wildlife management have shaped modern conservation success. The conversation dives deep into: • Colorado wolf reintroduction • Ballot box biology and anti-hunting initiatives • Predator management and trapping • Conservation vs preservation • Rural communities and wildlife stewardship • The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation • Trophy hunting misconceptions • Sustainable use conservation in Africa • Rewilding movements • Wildlife economics and habitat management • Human-wildlife conflict • Public land pressure and outdoor recreation • The future of hunting, fishing, and trapping rights Tom Opre also explains how storytelling, documentaries, and public education are shaping the future of wildlife conservation and why hunters, anglers, ranchers, and rural communities are essential to protecting habitat and wildlife populations. If you care about wildlife conservation, public lands, hunting rights, predator management, trapping, elk, mule deer, wolves, mountain lions, grizzly bears, habitat restoration, rural America, or the future of science-based wildlife management, this episode is a must-watch. Subscribe to Through the Gates for more long-form conversations about hunting, wildlife policy, conservation, predator management, trapping, public lands, and the fight to protect the future of wildlife management. #hunting #conservation #wildlife #wolves #trapping #publiclands #predatormanagement #wolfreintroduction #wildlifemanagement #huntingpodcast #mountainlion #elkhunting #muledeer #ranching #ruralamerica #sportsmen #northamericanmodel #conservationpodcast #throughthestgates #savehunt

  7. Jun 16

    Ep. 103 - Reclaiming Colorado: Barbara Kirkmeyer & Victor Marx on Restoring Colorado Values.

    In this special election edition of Through the Gates, Dan Gates sits down with Colorado gubernatorial candidates Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer and Victor Marx for two in-depth conversations about the future of the Centennial State. From wildlife conservation and hunting heritage to public safety, energy, education, agriculture, water policy, the wolf introduction debate, Second Amendment rights, and government accountability, both candidates share their vision for restoring confidence in Colorado's leadership and charting a path forward. This episode goes far beyond campaign talking points. Dan challenges both candidates on the issues that matter most to sportsmen, ranchers, conservationists, small business owners, and families who believe Colorado has drifted away from the values that once made it one of America's most desirable places to live, work, hunt, fish, and raise a family. Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer discusses her plans for government reform, regulatory relief, science-based wildlife management, wolf policy, transportation, education, and restoring accountability in state government. Victor Marx shares his outsider perspective on leadership, public safety, constitutional rights, conservation issues, educating voters, and his vision for bringing Colorado back to the people. Whether you're a hunter, angler, rancher, conservationist, business owner, or simply concerned about Colorado's future, this conversation provides a unique opportunity to hear directly from two candidates seeking to lead the state through its next chapter. The question is simple: How do we reclaim Colorado?

  8. Jun 9

    Ep. 102 - Randy Newberg: Why Colorado Must Act Now to Protect Hunting and Wildlife Management

    Colorado may be on the verge of making history. In Episode 102 of Through the Gates, Dan Gates joins renowned public lands advocate Randy Newberg to discuss Colorado's push for a Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish. After years of fighting ballot initiatives, legislative attacks, controversial wildlife commission appointments, wolf reintroduction, fur bans, and Proposition 127, conservation advocates are now shifting from defense to offense. Dan and Randy break down Initiative 302, the signature-gathering effort that could make Colorado the 25th state in America to constitutionally protect hunting, fishing, and science-based wildlife management. They explain why this effort matters not just for Colorado, but for hunters, anglers, conservationists, and wildlife managers across the country. The conversation covers the future of wildlife policy, ballot-box biology, sportsmen's advocacy, fundraising, coalition building, and what it will take to protect hunting opportunities for future generations. Whether you're a Colorado resident, a nonresident hunter, or simply someone who supports the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, this episode provides an inside look at one of the most important conservation battles happening today.

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4.7
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39 Ratings

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Informing the Public on the Benefits of Hunting and Fishing along with the importance of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and Responsible Science Based Wildlife Management

Information

  • Creator
    Dan Gates - Save the Hunt
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    110
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dan Gates - Save the Hunt
  • Show Website
    Through the Gates