Public input sought on big-game hunting season structure
COLORADO Parks and Wildlife has started the process of engaging with the public as alternatives are considered to the current big-game hunting season structure.
As part of the Big Game Season Structure (BGSS) planning process, CPW will hold public meetings in a town hall-style across the Southwest Region in Durango, Gunnison, Monte Vista and Montrose. Those unable to attend an in-person meeting may also sign up for two virtual meetings to be conducted statewide on June 1 and June 29.
“Public feedback is essential to wildlife management,” said CPW Senior Wildlife Biologist Jamin Grigg. “Discussing potential alternatives to the current structure of big-game hunting seasons is important for us to understand the variety of perspectives various sports persons have and how we can best structure hunting seasons for the benefit of hunters as well as for the long-term conservation of wildlife populations.”
MEETING SCHEDULE
SOUTHWEST REGION
Monday, May 22, 6-7:30 p.m.; Durango
La Plata Room at La Plata County Fairgrounds Durango, 81301Monday, June 12, 6-7:30 p.m.; Montrose
Montrose Police Department Community Room, 431 S. 1st Street, Montrose, 81401Thursday, June 15, 6-7:30 p.m., Monte Vista
Ski Hi Complex, 2335 Sherman Ave, Monte Vista, 81144Thursday, June 22, 6-7:30 p.m., Gunnison
Fred Field Center, 298-278 S Spruce St, Gunnison, 81230
VIRTUAL MEETINGS
Thursday, June 1, 6-7:30 p.m. MT – register here
Thursday, June 29, 6-7:30 p.m. MT – register here
CPW is encouraging the public to attend these meetings to learn about the current Big Game Season Structure and the potential changes CPW is considering. CPW wants to give the public ample opportunity to provide input and help inform the BGSS planning process. For more information regarding these public meetings, visit the BGSS EngageCPW page.
BGSS topics to be discussed at the public meetings include:
- Alternatives regarding over-the-counter archery and rifle elk licenses
- Rifle season date structures for deer and elk
- Early season (archery and muzzleloader) date structures
- Adding rifle deer opportunities to the first regular rifle season
- Adding a second regular rifle buck and doe pronghorn season
The topics covered during these meetings are starting points for discussion. Additional topics and options may be considered at future meetings.
The town hall meetings will consist of a slideshow presentation and will include live interactive digital polling via smartphones and devices to compile input from attendees. All attendees are encouraged to bring a smartphone or device to the town hall meetings to better and more fully participate. Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback.
After all public meetings have concluded, CPW will compile all the public input received into a public outreach summary report. This report will be presented to the Parks and Wildlife Commission during the August commission meeting. Staff will begin developing draft BGSS recommendations this fall.
