OCR Text |
Show Spring Range Rides Scheduled in Region The public is invited to participate in the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources annual spring range rides. The rides are conducted throughout the state to observe big game winter range conditions. Most of the rides are on horseback, but some are on foot or in vehicles. Local conservation officers conduct the range rides within their districts in cooperation with other land management agencies. Purpose of the range rides is to assess conditions and trends of the vegetation on the range and any winter big game mortality. Range conditions are assessed to make sure the range will support the number of big game animals using the area. Depending upon the condition of the range, management plans may be altered to attain the desired trend in vegetational composition. The officers will also visually check big game still in the area to observe their general physical condition. The data collected will be considered in determining tLls year's big game seasons. Most areas studied are critical big game wintering range. Many of these areas support large numbers of deer t and elk during the winter. In the past, overgrazing, adverse weather conditions, and complete loss of the area to urban and rural developments have diminished winter habitat for big game species. The critical areas receive special attention from the Division to assure survival of big game in Utah. The following local rides are scheduled: Antimony west, April 1, meet at Antimony Store at 10 a.m. Bull Rush, April 3, meet two miles north of the junction of US 89 and U20 at 10 a.m. Willis Creek and Bull Valley, April 4, meet at Cannonville at 10:30 a.m. Sandy Peak, April 9, meet at the junction of US 89 and U20 at 10 a.m. Boulder-Long Neck, April 22, meet at USFS in Escalante at 8 a.m. Salt Gulch, April 23 meet at USFS in Escalante at 8 a.m. North Creek White Flats, April 24, meet at USFS in Escalante at 8 a.m. Poison Creek, April 25, meet at Twit-chell Ranch at 8 a.m. All these areas will be investigated by horseback. Those planning in joining the ride should bring a lunch, and, of course, a horse. t |