The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission approved big game hunting license numbers for the upcoming fall hunting seasons. Agency staff utilized herd population estimates to recommend reductions in license numbers for mule deer, elk and pronghorn while recommending increases in licenses to manage growing populations of moose and black bears.
According to a 2008 study, big game hunting in Colorado provides more than $430 million per year in economic impact to the state and supports 4,660 jobs in the state.
This year, Colorado will issue more than 240,000 limited licenses for the state's 'big three' species -- elk, deer and pronghorn. Wildlife managers and biologists around the state recommended the issuance of the following licenses for the 2012 fall seasons:
- 139,461 limited elk licenses
- 79,800 limited deer licenses
- 23,862 pronghorn licenses
Colorado plans to issue over-the-counter bull elk licenses in the archery, 2nd rifle and 3rd rifle seasons. The 2.2 percent decline in the number of limited elk tags offered this year is mostly related to elk populations reaching management objectives after several years of intentional efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife to reduce elk damage on private lands.
Black bear hunting license numbers will be increased in the state after biologists determined that the statewide population is larger than previously believed. New estimates show that approximately 16,000 to 18,000 black bears live in the state.
The Parks and Wildlife Commission voted to deny a petition that would have allowed rock climbing on property at the Rifle Falls Fish Hatchery. Commissioners based the decision on concerns about an active golden eagle nest in the immediate area and concerns regarding diversion of wildlife funds, safety issues, parking problems and potential damage to sensitive hatchery and water equipment in the area.
Commissioners approved regulations to grant military veterans and active duty members of the military free entrance to all state parks on Veteran's Day each Nov. 11. The Commission ruling makes permanent the previous tradition of the former Parks Board passing a "free day" for veterans and active duty service members each year.
For more information, read PWC Sets License Numbers for 2012.
Parks and Wildlife Commission Notice of Conference Call
The Parks and Wildlife Commission will convene a teleconference call to discuss the June 7th - 8th Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting agenda. This is an informational meeting only and no formal action will be taken.
If you would like to listen to this conference call, you may attend in person at the location below.
For more information, please call (303) 291-7480.