02-20-2007, 07:10 PM
The Colorado Division of Wildlife reminds hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts that seasonal closures are in effect at State Wildlife Areas (SWA) in the Ridgway, Montrose and Delta areas.
"¢ Billy Creek SWA: Closed Jan. 1 through April 30 to protect wintering big game herds. The closure includes all seven tracts and applies to all activities - including walking in. The wildlife viewing area is open in the tract just east of Highway 550 about 5 miles south Colona.
"¢ Escalante SWA: Hamilton and Lower Roubideau tracts closed March 15 through July 31 too all activity to protect nesting waterfowl and upland birds.
An important function of wildlife areas is to provide safe winter havens for a variety of species. Winter is a difficult time for wildlife, especially deer and elk. To stay alive, they need to use all available energy. The closures allow wildlife to get through the winter months without being disturbed by human activity.
Closures also allow waterfowl and upland birds to nest and hatch young without being disturbed.
Because deer and elk gather during the winter months, they are often easier to see from roadways. Please, observe wildlife from a distance. If animals begin to move as you are viewing them that means you are too close. If animals are forced to move needlessly during winter months their energy stores become depleted and their chances for survival decrease.
Signs noting the closures are posted at all the areas. If you see someone violating a closure, please call the Montrose CDOW office at (970) 252-6000. When reporting a violation, please include: location, when the violation occurred and descriptions of people and vehicles.
The CDOW also reminds anyone who uses a state wildlife area that a Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp is required for entry. All persons, aged 19 to 64 must have a stamp in their possession. The stamp costs $5 for those buying hunting and fishing licenses; and $10.25 for non license buyers. Those who purchase a stamp also are provided search and rescue services if needed.
For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.
"¢ Billy Creek SWA: Closed Jan. 1 through April 30 to protect wintering big game herds. The closure includes all seven tracts and applies to all activities - including walking in. The wildlife viewing area is open in the tract just east of Highway 550 about 5 miles south Colona.
"¢ Escalante SWA: Hamilton and Lower Roubideau tracts closed March 15 through July 31 too all activity to protect nesting waterfowl and upland birds.
An important function of wildlife areas is to provide safe winter havens for a variety of species. Winter is a difficult time for wildlife, especially deer and elk. To stay alive, they need to use all available energy. The closures allow wildlife to get through the winter months without being disturbed by human activity.
Closures also allow waterfowl and upland birds to nest and hatch young without being disturbed.
Because deer and elk gather during the winter months, they are often easier to see from roadways. Please, observe wildlife from a distance. If animals begin to move as you are viewing them that means you are too close. If animals are forced to move needlessly during winter months their energy stores become depleted and their chances for survival decrease.
Signs noting the closures are posted at all the areas. If you see someone violating a closure, please call the Montrose CDOW office at (970) 252-6000. When reporting a violation, please include: location, when the violation occurred and descriptions of people and vehicles.
The CDOW also reminds anyone who uses a state wildlife area that a Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp is required for entry. All persons, aged 19 to 64 must have a stamp in their possession. The stamp costs $5 for those buying hunting and fishing licenses; and $10.25 for non license buyers. Those who purchase a stamp also are provided search and rescue services if needed.
For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.