What is the process for establishing a state park in Colorado?

The process for establishing a state park in Colorado primarily involves land acquisition and planning. This step is crucial because it entails securing the necessary land where the state park will be located, which typically involves negotiations for land purchases, easements, or donations. This process must be thorough to ensure that the land meets the criteria for a state park, such as ecological value, recreational potential, and community interest.

Planning is equally important as it guides the development of the park to ensure that it meets the needs of visitors while also preserving natural resources. This includes creating master plans that outline the park's intended use, construction of facilities, management strategies, and how it will fit into the broader context of Colorado's parks system.

The other options, such as conducting wildlife studies only, immediate construction of facilities, or only obtaining local government approval, do not encompass the full scope of what is required. Wildlife studies are just one aspect of the planning process, and while local government approval is important, it cannot substitute for the comprehensive approach that includes land acquisition and careful planning.