The first of December brings a series of winter wildlife closures to many popular local trails and recreation areas. The closures, in turn, produce a curious range of reactions.
Some people lament the seasonal loss of favorite hiking trails and mountain bike routes, and that is an understandable reaction during these shortest days of the year.
The urge to get out and take advantage of what little daylight remains outside of work and school hours is strong, and the trails — from Three Springs and the Carbon Junction/Sale Barn area to Twin Buttes, Smelter Mountain and Animas City Mountain — are close to town and easy to access. Hence their popularity.
Others resent the closures, claiming that they tread lightly, and quietly, when these areas are open and will do the same in winter. Besides, say a vocal few, the closures last too long (until April 15 in most cases).
Of course, there are folks who ignore the closure signs posted at trailheads and parking areas. They hike or ski, often with their dogs, in areas that hold vital winter forage for wildlife already stressed by low temperatures and snowfall.
Last year, 19 people were ticketed by the Bureau of Land Management for trespassing in the closures. Some of those people claimed they did not know about the closures or missed warning signs. No doubt that happens on occasion.
But others acknowledged their trespass, saying that they did not think the closure really mattered because the weather was so nice at the time.
That is a dangerous disconnect. When winter storms threaten, we retreat into heated homes. Wildlife, however, retreat from higher altitudes and seek shelter and sustenance while out in the worst of the weather.
Often, the places they seek are the same ones protected by the winter closure orders. Without distractions from people and pets, wildlife get a chance to recover, and feed during the lean season.
The best reaction to local wildlife closures is also the easiest one. Respect them. Plenty of local trails remain open, and spring will return soon enough.
Think of it this way: When was the last time you looked forward to celebrating Tax Day?
