Annual seasonal closures begin in Montrose area to protect wildlife
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MONTROSE, Colo. – Annual winter closures to motorized and mechanized vehicles will go into effect Dec. 1 on select Bureau of Land Management lands in the Montrose area to reduce stress on wintering wildlife and prevent road damage.
The Dry Creek Travel Management Area roads west of Montrose, Ridgway Travel Management Area northeast of Ridgway, Burn Canyon Travel Management Area west of Norwood, Billy Creek area near Ridgway, Sims Mesa area south of Montrose, Fairview area southeast of Montrose, Jones Draw area northeast of Montrose, and Lone Cabin Road near Crawford will reopen between March 31 and April 30, 2019. Seasonal closures will occur until May 1 for Coal Canyon Road in the Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Area, Blue Mesa, Beehive, Chalk Mountain, Grand Mesa Slopes at Horse Mountain, Sink Creek, Mesa Creek, and Lands End roads, as well as the Gibbler Gulch, Wagon Park, Sawmill Mesa areas. Roads branching from 16 Road will close at Garvey, Post and Lapham canyons. The following areas will close through May 15: C77 (Green Mountain), Black Ridge and Red Canyon roads.
All areas continue to be open to hiking and horseback riding, except for the Ridgeway Travel Management Area, which is a full closure to the public.
“These areas are important to wintering wildlife,” said Greg Larson, BLM Uncompahgre field manager. “Winter conditions in southwest Colorado are severe at times and the public can help ensure wildlife populations remain healthy by respecting these temporary closures.”
Users of BLM-managed lands during winter months can help wintering deer and elk by observing wildlife closures, as well as viewing wildlife from a distance and keeping dogs under control, preferably leashed.
For more information, call the BLM Uncompahgre Field Office at (970) 240-5300
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.