Add five more big-game management units to the list that landowner and outfitter groups want to add to Colorado’s lineup for limited elk licenses.
This most recent proposal at the March 12 meeting of the Colorado Wildlife Commission calls for limited designation for units 75, 751, 77, 771 and 78 — generally in the Durango-Pagosa Springs area.
As anticipated, a Gunnison-area landowner group continued to press its initiative for totally limited licenses in units 54, 55 and 551. Should the commission approve, this would mean the entire Gunnison Basin would be under limited-license restrictions.
These proposals are part of the overall effort to establish the state’s big-game season structure for the five-year period 2010-14. Final decisions are due in September.
Coors elected.
Brad Coors of Golden was elected chairman of the Colorado Wildlife Commission at its Thursday meeting. Tim Glenn of Salida was named vice-chairman.
Cherry Creek protection.
The Colorado Water Quality Control Commission voted March 10 to reject a proposal that would have reduced water quality in Cherry Creek Reservoir, one of the state’s most active fisheries and site of a popular state park.
The Cherry Creek Basin Authority and Parker Water and Sanitation District had sought to increase algae levels in the lake and the amount of sewage discharged in the basin. Fifteen citizens testified against the proposal at the hearing, as did the Colorado Division of Wildlife and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Boulder closure.
Implementation of a new aquatic nuisance species inspection protocol will cause Boulder Reservoir to be closed to large watercraft through April 3. In the meantime, current permit holders are asked to bring their boats for an inspection and mandatory quarantine. The inspection costs $25.
Women’s weekend.
Colorado Women Flyfishers have scheduled a beginning fly-fishing clinic May 30-31 at Kassler Center near Waterton Canyon, daylong sessions in cooperation with the Colorado Division of Wildlife that include buddy sessions with CWF members. The event includes breakfasts, lunches, a dinner and equipment. Cost is $90 and entry is open to the first 52 registrants, .
