NEW BUCK SEASONS CONSIDERED IN GUNNISON BASIN

NEW BUCK SEASONS CONSIDERED IN GUNNISON BASIN

The Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) is seeking comment from the public about the possible addition of two new deer hunting seasons in the Gunnison Basin for 2006. Comments are due to the DOW by Oct. 14.

These seasons would be designed to provide hunters with additional opportunities in Game Management Units 54, 55, 551, 66 and 67, and to help the DOW meet wildlife management objectives. It is estimated that 25,000 deer live in those game management units.

Wildlife managers are considering an early "high-country" buck hunt in September. These hunts are generally restricted to a specific area within a Game Management Unit such as a designated wilderness or above a certain elevation. Similar hunts already occur in other parts of the state, and are generally one week long.

The second season being considered would be held in mid-November at the same time as the 4th elk season.

For both, only a limited number of licenses would be available.

"Both of these seasons would provide very high-quality hunting experiences," said Brandon Diamond, terrestrial biologist in the Gunnison region. "We want to hear what hunters think about this idea."

To comment, contact Diamond at 1-970-641-7071; send an e-mail to brandon.diamond@state.co.us; or write to him at 300 W. New York Ave., Gunnison, CO 81230.


For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.