EDITORIAL: Ag remains a cornerstone, linchpin of Colorado’s economy

By The Gazette Editorial Board January 27, 2026 

We appreciate the editorial board of The Colorado Springs Gazette for highlighting how vital agriculture is to Colorado’s economy, contributing $47 billion annually and supporting communities across our state. While the piece underscores the importance of West Slope agriculture, it is also worth remembering that this same economic engine operates right in the backyard of Colorado Springs, in the Lower Arkansas Valley.

The Editorial Board reminds us, “Let’s not bite the hand that literally feeds us and that creates so much of our state’s prosperity.” 

As growth continues in Colorado Springs and El Paso County, we hope this same principle guides decisions that directly affect their agricultural neighbors to the south. 

Thoughtful planning by Front Range cities and counties regarding growth and water will be essential to ensuring both urban and rural communities can thrive for generations, and it is critical that Lower Arkansas Valley voices are included in conversations about water transfers that will ultimately have major impacts on their communities.