Photo by Xavi Fane

Signs of Spring: A Few Wildlife-Friendly Reminders

As the days grow longer and the snow begins to soften, many of us start itching to get back out to our favorite recreation areas. Spring is also a sensitive time for wildlife across the Gunnison Valley, and a few seasonal closures help give animals the space they need during critical periods. Here are a few to keep in mind. 

Voluntary No-Float 

We’re keeping an eye out for our feathered friends, the Great Blue Herons, as they return to the Slate River wetlands. These striking birds typically arrive around mid-March and nest along the Slate River through the summer months. 

To help protect this sensitive rookery, our partners at Crested Butte Nordic may temporarily close a portion of the Magic Meadows trail near the nesting area when the birds are present. Boaters should also remember that the upper stretch of the Slate River, from Gunsight Bridge to the Rec Path Bridge, is under a voluntary no-float period through July 15 to give the herons the quiet space they need during nesting season. 

Gunnison Sage-Grouse Spring Closures 

Spring is when the Gunnison sage-grouse begin their breeding season. To help protect this threatened species, many public lands around Gunnison, including Signal Peak and areas at Hartman Rocks, have seasonal closures until May 15. 

Learn more about current closures and recommendations here. 

Small actions, like staying on designated routes, keeping dogs on leash, and giving birds plenty of space, can make a meaningful difference for this iconic Gunnison Valley species. 

Big Game Winter Range Closures  

Seasonal closures also help protect wintering big game, including elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. Many areas across the Gunnison Basin remain closed to motorized, mechanized, and sometimes all human access from December 1 through April 30 or Memorial Day weekend. As conditions begin to change this spring, keep an eye out for wildlife closure signs and check local maps before heading out. 

Learn more about southwest CO regional closures here. 

For a full map detailing all of the seasonal closures on BLM lands across Colorado, go to cpw.info/BLMClosures. 

Thank you for helping protect wildlife by recreating responsibly and respecting seasonal closures! 

Winter Field Trip

Join us for our final free winter field trip of the season tomorrow, Friday, March 20, at 10 AM. In partnership with the Crested Butte Museum, we’ll explore the history of the Lower Loop area, from its coal mining roots to today’s conservation efforts. Ski or snowshoe to the Magic Meadows Yurt, and share a cup of cocoa with us!

Email jessica@cblandtrust.org with questions and to RSVP.  

We’re Hiring!

CBLT is hiring a seasonal Recreation & Conservation Ranger to help steward our conserved lands and connect with recreation users across the valley this summer.  Learn more about the position and how to apply online here. Applications are due April 1.