BLM implements seasonal closures to protect wintering wildlife

PRESS RELEASE
November 21, 2022

The Bureau of Land Management Grand Junction and Colorado River Valley field offices will begin seasonal closures on Dec. 1, 2022. Seasonal closures protect wintering wildlife and reduce damage to roads. Most areas will continue to be open to non-motorized and non-mechanized recreation opportunities such as hiking, snowshoeing, and horseback riding.

“Winter closures are critical for wintering wildlife that are trying to conserve as much energy as possible,” said Upper Colorado River District Manager Greg Larson. “We appreciate the public’s cooperation in minimizing disturbance to wildlife during the winter.”

The Grand Junction Field Office seasonal closures occur from Dec. 1 – May 1. Specific area closures and maps are available at the field office or online.

The Colorado River Valley Field Office seasonal closures occur from Dec. 1 – April 15. The Sutey Ranch, just north of Carbondale, is closed to all use from Dec. 1 – April 15. Sutey Ranch’s Northside Access Trail is closed to mechanized use from Oct. 1 – May 31. A detailed list of closures and maps are available at the field office or online.

The BLM also has several closures in conjunction with Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s late season big game and mountain lion hunting. East Castle Peak and Greenhorn/Cottonwood Creek areas will be closed to motorized and mechanized use from Jan. 16 – April 15.

For further information, contact the Grand Junction Field Office, (970) 244-3000, or the Colorado River Valley Field Office, (970) 876-9000.