The elk that wasn’t
Division of Wildlife technicians who receive animals for chronic wasting disease testing are prepared for strange scenarios, but seldom anything like this. The Colorado resident who drove up to DOW’s 6060 Broadway office Monday, the third day of elk season, seemed particularly pleased with a kill made near Ute Pass – until officials broke the bad news that this animal actually was a cow moose. “He went from happy to a state of shock,” said warden Joe Padia, who promptly wrote a ticket for careless hunting. The hunter, unidentified until the case is settled, faces a court date, a fine ranging from $100 to $1,000 and a possible suspended license.
Amendment issue
Colorado wildlife officials have noted a glitch in Amendment 38, an initiative on the November ballot. The amendment expands petition rights at all levels of government, which might include rules-making bodies such as wildlife agencies. Jeff Crawford, chairman of the Wildlife Commission, revealed certain problems with timely implementation of rules regarding the setting of seasons, based on harvest information and other surveys that operate on a tight time frame.
Crawford pointed out that under timetables stated in the amendment, regulations would require 91 days to take effect compared to the current 20 days under existing procedures. “In many instances, the Wildlife Commission does not have that additional time to spare,” Crawford wrote. “Further, if a petition is actually filed challenging the regulations … the regulations could not take effect until after an election.” Crawford said such a situation might forestall a hunting season completely.
Lewis gives lowdown on bugs
The announcement for the Oct. 28 program at Gander Mountain’s store in Thornton trumpets a presentation on fly-fishing entomology. Jim Lewis scoffs at the high-toned proclamation. He says he’s just going to talk about bugs. Lewis, a veteran guide, will get down to the basics of matching aquatic insects with effective fly patterns during his 9-11 a.m. talk at the 9923 Grant St. location. For more information, call 303-450-8122.
