Overview
- Gov. Jared Polis signed an executive order on Dec. 15 creating a multi-agency task force to coordinate a statewide response focused on ponderosa forests along the western Front Range.
- Foresters report expanding beetle activity visible along the I-70 and U.S. 285 corridors, with scattered pockets signaling the potential for large-scale tree mortality.
- The U.S. Forest Service says more than 30 million acres statewide show increasing beetle populations and warns impacts could intensify over the next three to five years if conditions persist.
- Polis said projections indicate most or nearly all mature ponderosa pines in the western Front Range could die within several years, raising risks to wildfire safety, water quality, recreation and utilities.
- Officials urge homeowners to look for early signs such as pitch tubes or fine sawdust and say details on task force appointments, grants and funding plans will be released in early 2026.