8/31/2007

Division of Wildlife

2007 Walk-in Access Program Adds Dove Hunting, Begins September 1

Small game hunters will enjoy additional and earlier opportunities this season due to the continued success of the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s (DOW) Walk-In Access Program.

The Walk-in Access Program gives small game hunters the opportunity to purchase a $20 permit that allows them to access 145,000 acres of private land.

This year marks the first time that properties will be open for dove hunting in addition to pheasants, quail, rabbits, and waterfowl statewide.  In addition, there are opportunities to access grouse properties in northwestern Colorado, and turkey in southwest Colorado.

To hunt small game or waterfowl on enrolled properties, all hunters, regardless of age, must have in their possession a Walk-In Access permit, priced at $20, and a small game license.  Similar to a hunting license, the permits expire at the end of the calendar year.  Big game hunting permission is not included in the Walk-in Access program.  For additional information on the program, go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/SmallGame/WalkInAccess/.

The Walk-In Access program’s lease payments are generated in part through the sale of a Walk-In Access Program permit.   Hunters who purchase the permit are provided with a map to the properties and rules that govern access.

The Walk-In program benefits landowners by providing a way to obtain income off hard to farm unprofitable acres or waste areas.  It also reduces contact with hunters and eliminates trespass concerns because the DOW patrols and signs the property.  Hunters benefit because it opens up hunting opportunities for upland game without having to leave Colorado.

Enrolled properties are clearly marked with DOW “Walk-in Access” signs.  All posting is done by the DOW.  To obtain an atlas of available properties included in the program, stop by any DOW office, or download a copy at: http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/SmallGame/WalkInAccess/.

The Colorado Division of Wildlife is the state agency responsible for managing wildlife and its habitat, as well as providing wildlife related recreation. The Division is funded through hunting and fishing license fees, federal grants and Colorado Lottery proceeds through Great Outdoors Colorado.