The Colorado Division of Wildlife is concerned that energy development could disturb wildlife migration patterns in Northwest Colorado.

The DOW is working to reach agreements with energy developers to schedule drilling and other activity to minimize the effect it has on wildlife, DOW spokesman Randy Hampton said.

Deer and elk herds will spend summers on Rabbit Ears Pass and in the Flat Tops range, then migrate west of Meeker and to the Dinosaur National Monument area.

As energy development increases in between the herds’ summer and winter ranges, it becomes increasingly possible the activity could disturb the herds.

One such area of concern is the Bitterbrush Wildlife Area south of Maybell. Bitterbrush is important winter habitat for deer and elk, Hampton said.

The DOW owns surface rights in Bitterbrush, but the agency does not own mineral rights. The situation is known as a split estate.

In such situations the DOW finds itself in circumstances similar to any property owner who has surface rights but no mineral rights. The DOW has to recognize the mineral owner’s right to develop the energy that lies below the DOW’s land.

“One thing we can have the most success with is sitting down and working with the energy companies,” Hampton said.

DOW officials will illustrate timing issues about migration patterns and let companies know what they can do to minimize effects on wildlife.

Deer and elk aren’t the only wildlife that is being affected by energy development on DOW land.

The greater sage-grouse, a Western bird whose populations have declined in recent years, has habitat in the Bitterbrush Wildlife Area.

The area south of Maybell is not experiencing heavy energy development at this time. But it’s important to look forward, Hampton said.

Two pipelines have been proposed for construction across Moffat County. Those too could affect wildlife.

Rob Gebhart can be reached at 824-7031 or rgebhart@craigdailypress.com.