BLM develops plans to inform the public about livestock protection dogs' whereabouts
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SILVERTON, Colo. – While many people are enjoying recreation activities as cooler temperatures arrive, the Bureau of Land Management is busy responding to reports of encounters with livestock protection dogs and along the Colorado Trail by working closely with Permittees to ensure public safety.
“We recognize the use of livestock protection dogs is an important non-lethal method for predator control, and we are working to improve our outreach efforts to ensure the public is aware of potential interactions between various users on the trails as we manage for all the important multiple uses in and around the Silverton area,” said Connie Clementson, Tres Rios Field Manager.
To help the public understand where encounters with sheep flocks may occur, a downloadable map of BLM grazing allotments was posted on the Tres Rios Field Office recreation page at www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/sjplc/recreation_and_travel_management.html. This page also contains important information outlining proper etiquette for interacting with livestock protection dogs as permittees are grazing domestic sheep in these areas until Sept. 12, 2014. After reviewing this information, the public is encouraged learn more at the Silverton Public Lands Center (1428 Greene Street).
The BLM staff is also working with grazing permittees to develop a pilot program that gives herders Global Position Devices to determine the location of flocks on a daily basis. Once the herders start using the devices, the public can access the information on the BLM website. This pilot project is expected to be ready for public use when the permittees turn sheep onto the allotments in the spring 2015.
“We’re also planning to work with our recreation user-groups and partners to ensure the information is readily available, so it is distributed through as many channels as possible,” said Clementson.
If the public encounters a band of sheep while visiting America’s public lands, it is best to alter the route to minimize any contact. However, if contact cannot be avoided:
Do:
• Watch for livestock protection dogs near sheep (usually large dogs, white or tan in color).
• Remain calm if a livestock protection dog approaches you.
• If you are on a bike, dismount and put the bike between you and the dog.
• Tell the dog to “go back to the sheep" or say “no” in a firm voice.
• Walk your bike until well past the sheep.
• Keep your distance and choose the least disruptive route around the sheep.
• Keep your dog leashed.
Do Not:
• Chase or harass the sheep or dog(s).
• Make quick, threatening movements towards the sheep or dog(s).
• Try to outrun the dog(s).
• Attempt to befriend, pet or feed the dog(s).
• Allow your dog to run towards or harass the sheep.
• Mistake a dog as lost and take it with you.
For more information regarding livestock protection dogs, grazing allotments or the pilot program, contact the BLM Tres Rios Field Office at 970-882-7296.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.