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Wildlife area winter closures continue through April 15

While weather in southwest Colorado has been summer-like, recreationists are reminded that winter closures on two state wildlife areas and on some BLM and city-owned properties near Durango continue through April 15.

Bodo State Wildlife Area, Perins Peak State Wildlife Area on the west side of the Dry Fork Road (County Road 208) and the BLM tracts at Perins Peak, Animas City Mountain and the Grandview area are closed from Dec. 1 through April 15. In addition, the portion of Perins Peak SWA and the BLM parcels east side of Dry Fork Road is closed Dec. 1 through July 31. Signs indicating the closure restrictions are clearly displayed at popular trailheads at these areas.

The weather is perfect for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding; however, the low-elevation areas that are closed provide critical refuge for deer and elk.

"There is bare ground down here, but there is still a lot of snow at higher elevation; deer and elk do not yet have access to spring forage," said Stephanie Taylor, a district wildlife manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. "Late winter and early spring is a tough time for big game. Their fat reserves and energy supplies are depleted due to the stresses of winter and a shortage of available food. These animals lose 20-30 percent of their body weight through the winter and their bodies are taxed. Please, stay out of the closure areas to avoid disturbing animals and causing them to burn energy unnecessarily.

The Smelter Mountain trail, on the east side of Bodo SWA, is open year-round; but from Dec. 1 through April 15 the trail is open only from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dogs are prohibited. During the summer dogs are permitted but must be on a leash.

Violations of closures can result in a citation and fine.

"There are a multitude of other areas open for trail use, so please use those until April 16," Taylor said.