The BLM, city of Durango and Colorado Parks and Wildlife work together to identify key wildlife areas around Durango needing protection for deer and elk. Closing these areas to human activity is necessary to protect critical foraging habitat for these species, allowing them to survive the winter.

People who use these areas can help reduce stress to wildlife by observing them from a distance and keeping dogs under control, preferably leashed.

A complete list and maps of the areas affected by the extended winter closures are available online at www.blm.gov and at the Tres Rios Field Office locations in Durango and Dolores, 15 Burnett Court, Durango and 29211 Highway 184, Dolores.

For more information, call 882-7296.