Deer, elk management meetings planned

GUNNISON — Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff is starting work to update big-game management plans in the Gunnison Basin. The public is invited to meetings where the planning efforts will be discussed.

At 6:30 p.m., June 27 at the Gunnison County Fairgrounds, 275 S. Spruce St., CPW staff will present information regarding elk management in the West Elk Mountains for Game Management Units 53, 54 and 63.

At the meeting, wildlife managers will present information regarding history of management in these areas, harvest and survival trends, and habitat. The planning process is in its early stages and will take about a year to complete. CPW will also be gathering input from the public through on-line surveys.

“Big-game management planning is complex,” said J Wenum, area wildlife manager in Gunnison. “We need to take into consideration a variety of factors that include scientific analysis and public perception. As the planning process starts it’s important for wildlife managers to hear the opinions and concerns of the public.”