Craig Daily Press / Don Roth: ‘Elk Hunting Capital of the World’ indeed

February 14, 2008

Craig — To the Editor:

What a great part of the country to be in.

We have heard, seen and read that the Division of Wildlife is not doing all it can to manage and protect the local ranchers and yet look after the wild life. I will quickly admit that the wildlife is having some difficult times at this time of the year.

The latest slogan that was put forth for this Northwest Colorado area: “Elk Hunting Capital of the World.” I would like to put forth a recent situation.

A rancher has been having a serious problem with feeding his cattle — approximately 18 to 25 critters. They have had competition with the same amount of elk that are partaking of the hay being feed. The rancher contacted the DOW for some relief. The rancher was issued special permits to help the situation. They received (at least) five special permits to eradicate these invading animals. This is the main thrust of my story.

A family friend of mine and others were given the opportunity to use these permits. These particular guys traveled from the Front Range bright and early one day to fill these available permits.

Well, within two to three hours after their arrival, including getting the licenses, they had three invading elk on the snow covered area ready to be taken to the processing facility. Ready being, field dressed and skinned. Similarly, yet another good friend made it possible for a young college student to have the opportunity to use another of these permits and put some well needed meat in his freezer.

These guys drove from Grand Junction in the morning, got all the legal documents and headed back to Junction to attend classes the next day. All this happened, without driving time, within about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Where in the world could anything like this ever happen but here in the “Elk Hunting Capital of the World.”

This entire operation has been good for the rancher and also the persons that had the opportunity to make use of this situation. Thanks to the DOW for understanding and allowing this to happen.

Don Roth