Denver, CO - U.S. Colorado Senators Michael Bennet and Cory Gardner and Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper today sent a letter to the Outdoor Retailer Show to encourage its consideration of Colorado as its new home for the popular recreation convention.

The letter states that Colorado is the perfect location for the Outdoor Retailer show, given our bipartisan commitment to maintaining and protecting public lands.

"As Coloradans, we value and protect our public lands because we recognize the enormous influence they have on our quality of life and our outdoor economy," Bennet said. "The abundance, accessibility, and beauty of public lands in our state makes Colorado a perfect destination for the Outdoor Retailer show."

"Colorado's commitment to public lands coupled with its booming outdoor recreation industry makes it the premiere location for the Outdoor Retailer show," Gardner said. "I'm thrilled to support Colorado's bid to host this event and showcase our state's natural beauty."

"Colorado is unmatched in the opportunities to connect with outdoor enthusiasts," Hickenlooper said. "We truly believe the show will not only find a new awesome home here but will also land new audiences."

The Outdoor Retailer Show announced its search for a new host state earlier this month. Colorado today submitted the letter to the show's organizer, Emerald Expositions, indicating plans to respond to the company's request for proposal (RFP).