BLM to implement annual seasonal motorized use closures to protect wintering wildlife in the Wood River Valley Dec. 1
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TWIN FALLS, Idaho – The Bureau of Land Management Shoshone Field Office will implement annual seasonal motorized use closures in the Wood River Valley beginning Dec. 1, 2018, and ending April 30, 2019, to protect wintering deer and elk.
“These closures have gone into effect each winter since 1982 to help protect animals that have to work harder for their food and shelter as they look for refuge in these areas,” said Shoshone Field Office Wildlife Biologist, Jesse Rawson. “It is important to help minimize human-related stress on wildlife.” The seasonal closures are for BLM-managed land only.
The BLM encourages the public to carefully gauge their actions when recreating this winter to minimize impacts to deer and elk that could be in the area. “Motorized and non-motorized recreationists disturb wildlife and cause them to expend vital energy that is needed for survival,” said Rawson. “When deer or elk are encountered during an outing, it is important to respect the animals and view them from a distance so that noise or close proximity will not cause additional stress." Most BLM land in the Wood River Valley remains open for motorized recreation activities. Stop by the BLM Shoshone Field Office or visit the website for a copy of the seasonal closure map and other wildlife/recreation related information.
Following are the areas in the Wood River Valley that are closed annually to motorized use, including snowmobiles, from Dec. 1 through April 30:
· Martin/ Big Dry Canyon
· Croy Creek to south of Townsend Gulch
· Big and Little Beaver Drainages
· South slopes above East Fork
· Elk Mountain area
· Portions of Picabo Hills
The BLM patrols these areas to monitor and enforce closures. A map detailing the closures within the Wood River Valley is attached and hard copies are also available through the Shoshone Field Office at 400 West F Street in Shoshone. For additional information, please contact Outdoor Recreation Planner John Kurtz at (208) 732-7296.
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.