Summary of the Great Outdoors Colorado
(GOCO) Strategic Plan
February 1999
In the Fall of 1998, Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) conducted
a series of meetings in 14 cities around the state. The purpose
of the meetings was to seek the advice of Coloradans about what
modifications GOCO should make to the Strategic Plan that guides
its spending due to an increase in funds it will begin receiving
in 1999. GOCO’s share of Lottery proceeds will increase from an
average of $20 million annually to $35 million a year adjusted
for inflation -- approximately $44 million in Fiscal Year 1999/2000.
More than 900 people attended these meetings. GOCO also met with
the State Parks Board and Wildlife Commission, and stakeholders
from the land conservation, agricultural, urban, and water communities.
In addition, Ciruli Associates conducted a telephone survey of
600 citizens.
At these meetings and in the survey, the Board asked if GOCO’s
current grant programs are addressing the outdoor resource needs
with which it is charged to fund in the Colorado Constitution.
The Board also sought reaction to targeted initiatives, outlined
in this summary, that could be undertaken with increased revenues.
Based on the input GOCO received at these meetings, the Board
has developed spending priorities and initiatives which are summarized
in this draft.
GOCO’s funding will remain an important tool to address the outdoor
resource challenges Colorado faces. Much has been achieved since
GOCO awarded its first grants; however, there is still much more
to do. Demand for GOCO grants, which has outpaced dollars available
by three to one since 1994, will continue to be significant. The
need to work together in partnership to achieve GOCO's mission
will remain.
Great Outdoors Colorado continues to present a unique opportunity:
an opportunity to preserve Colorado’s natural heritage, an opportunity
to enhance our quality of life, and an opportunity to keep our
state as special tomorrow as it is today. The GOCO Board looks
forward to working together to optimize that opportunity.
Three Core Programs Derived from Amendment Goals
A. Land, Water and Wildlife Protection Program
B. Outdoor Recreation Facilities Programs
C. Youth/Environmental Education/Interpretation Programs
Leadership and Board Initiatives
GOCO’s Approach to Grant-Making