Colorado Legislators Stalled on River Access Legislation Amidst Longstanding Dispute
In Colorado, a longstanding debate over river access rights remains unresolved as legislators have yet to address the contentious issue during the current legislative session. The conflict centers around a decades-old 'float but don’t touch' decree, which allows paddlers to navigate rivers but restricts them from touching private land. This has led to a division among advocacy groups and landowners. The Responsible River Recreation Alliance, a new advocacy group, is pushing for legislation that would permit boaters to pass through private property without disembarking, except in cases where portaging is necessary due to obstacles. Conversely, the Colorado Water Conservation Alliance, representing landowners, warns that altering the current rules could infringe on property rights and result in protracted legal battles. Despite the ongoing debate, no legislative action has been taken, leaving the status quo intact as the state faces a dry river season. 
