A Big Game Access Pilot Program will offer deer and pronghorn hunting access to select properties in southeast Colorado. Hunters 18 and older must purchase a $40 permit, available at Division of Wildlife offices or license agents. The money will be used to defray costs of leasing the private property. Younger hunters must obtain a free permit.
Stay the trail. U.S. Forest Service officials are in the process of preparing uniform motorized vehicle use maps defining those routes that may be used on national forests. A few have been published on five national forests in the Rocky Mountain Region, and all will be completed by 2009. Meanwhile, forest managers will be on the lookout for violations of existing closures. It is illegal to operate vehicles off designated trails. Users of all motorized vehicles, off-highway models in particular, should be aware of the noise and intrusive impacts on the hunting environment.
To catch a thief. Operation Game Thief is a program that encourages cooperation with wildlife authorities in preventing poaching and other game law or resource violations. It pays rewards to citizens whose information leads to an arrest or citation. Participants need not reveal their names, appear in court or sign a deposition. Reports can earn rewards of $250 in cases involving big game or endangered species, $100 for other violations. Rewards of up to $1,000 have been paid in flagrant cases. To file a report, call toll free, 1-877-265-6648.
Moose precaution. Moose have become widely distributed around the state, and hunters should take particular precaution to avoid accidental shootings. Moose are larger than elk and are dark brown, appearing almost black. Make certain of your target before pulling the trigger. The Division of Wildlife strives to increase moose populations, with corresponding gains in hunting opportunity, because each illegal kill results in a reduction of license numbers. Moose mishaps carry a fine of $1,375. Shooting a trophy bull moose could carry a fine of more than $11,000.
Food for the needy. The following food banks accept donations of game meat, provided it has been certified free of chronic wasting disease and has been commercially processed and wrapped.
By the numbers. The following agencies provide information useful to big game hunters. The phone numbers are for central offices in Denver. Each operates district offices in many locations across the state.
