BIGHORN SHEEP SURVEYS RIO GRANDE NATIONAL FOREST - DIVIDE RD

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1 Drlt: () e capt BGHORN SHEEP SURVEYS RO GRANDE NATONAL FOREST - DVDE RD 21 This report documents the results of Bighorn Sheep surveys on the Divide Ranger District during the summer of 21. The information in this report displays numbers and classification of bighorn observed on specific dates and areas as a method of helping to supplement known information on seasonal habitat use and relative numbers of bighorn in specific Bighorn Sheep Game Management Units (GM Us). This information will provide the Divide Ranger District with better information regarding potential habitat improvement projects and will help the district make more informed decisions regarding the management of bighorn and domestic sheep in some cases. Seven GM Us are located partly or entirely within the Divide RD. These GM Us and the high count of individual bighorn with no duplicates during 21 include: Bighorn Sheep Herd Page High Count of ndividual Bighorn Ewes Lambs Rams Total 1 ). GMU S 15 - Sheep Mountain ). GMU S22 - San Luis Peak * 3). GMU S29 - Alamosa Canyon ). GMU S33 - Pole Mtn/Upper Lake Fork 21 5). GMU S36 - Bellows Creek * 6). GMU S53 - Bristol Head ). GMU S55 - Camero Creek * High counts were during an 8/26/21 CDOW aerial flight. S36 total includes one additional ¾ curl ram observed on 8/1 that was not observed during the 8/26 aerial count. 1

2 sss S29 BGHORN SHEEP GAME MANAGEMENT UNTS RO GRANDE NATONAL FOREST DVDE RANGER DSTRCT 2

3 1). GMU S15 - Sheep Mountain Unit 515 occurs on both on the San Juan and Rio Grande National Forests, with the majority of the unit occurring on the San Juan NF. The portion of 515 that occurs on the Rio Grande NF primarily overlaps the Weminuche Wilderness along the Continental Divide. On the Rio Grande NF, the boundary of 515 is defined by Wolf Creek Pass to the south, the wilderness boundary near vy Creek to the west, and the wilderness boundary to the north and the Shaw Lake Road (Rd 43) as it travels south again to Big Meadows. Prominent features on the Rio Grande include Wolf Creek Pass, Mount Hope, South River Peak, and Beautiful and Fisher Mountains. Left Photo: West side of South River Peak in the Red Mountain (vy Ridge) Drainage. Photo taken from Copper Ridge looking east. Bighorn were sighted in this location by FS and CDOW on several occasions during the summer of 21. Right Photo: East side of South River Peak at the head of Goose Creek. Photo taken from the Continental Divide Trail looking west. This spot is the southern-most boundary of the Fisher/vy/Goose Creek Sheep Allotment and is located on the opposite side of the ridge from the photo on the left. Herd History: Bighorn within 515 are part of a native alpine population that was never extirpated (Beecham et al. 27). t is unknown how many animals occurred there historically although numbers may have been restricted by limited winter range (Bear and Jol']es 1973). Population Trends: The earliest available records for bighorn sheep in Unit 515 occurred in 1944 when 38 individuals were counted (Bear and Jones 1973). The count increased to 7 in 1961 but decreased again to an estimated 33 to 4 head by The 515 population was estimated at 5 head from 1986 through 1993 (George et al. 29). From 1995 through 27, the recorded population estimate increased and remained at 1 animals with additional estimates placing the population as high as 125 animals (Wait 25d in Beecham et al. 27). 3

4 \ At that time, local Division of Wildlife personnel considered the S15 herd to be stable and slowly increasing (B. Weinmeister, CDOW 28). The most recent population estimate placed the 28 posthunt population estimate at 2 animals (Colorado Division of Wildlife 29b), indicating either a refined estimate or a substantial increase in individuals. Habitat Trends: Habitat conditions for the Sheep Mountain bighorn herd appear to be adequate for both the current and a potentially larger herd in the future (D. Gomez, 29). Due to the large area of available suitable habitat, relative remoteness of the unit, and wilderness designation, no habitat improvement projects are identified or considered necessary at this time. Harvest: Bighorns in the Sheep Mountain unit have been hunted on an annual basis since 1953, with the exception of 1956 when the season was closed. A total of 159 licenses were issued from with only 16 rams harvested during the 17 seasons for an overall success rate of 1 percent. From at least 1999 through 26, six ram licenses were issued. This number decreased slightly to five licenses in 27, and has remained at this number. Two ewe licenses were issued in Unit S15 in 21. Current Distribution: The traditional range areas used by the Sheep Mountain bighorn herd are centered along the Continental Divide from Wolf Creek Pass in the south to Table Mountain in the north and west to Beaver Creek on the San Juan NF. During the winter, the animals have primarily been confined to the wind-swept ridges and south exposures from Mount Hope to Sheep Mountain (Bear and Jones 1973). Sheep Mountain bighorns on the Rio Grande NF are centered above Hunters Lake and the head of Leopard Creek (B. Weinmeister, CDOW 28). Bighorns from this herd are commonly observed in the winter along the north side of Highway 16 from the summit of Wolf Creek Pass west to the scenic overlook above the west fork of the San Juan River. A ground count in 28 reported 6 rams on the face of Mount Hope on the Rio Grande NF. Threats and Limiting Factors: Unit S15 generally contains features of both moderate and low-risk bighorn herds (Beecham et al. 27). On the San Juan NF (west} side of the unit, domestic sheep were commonly grazed and trailed through the S15 herd in some locations through the 197's and 199's. These allotments were initially converted to cattle and have been closed or remain vacant since the 199's. These closures and vacancies have greatly reduced the potential for contact between bighorns and domestic sheep. Currently, the Sheep Mountain herd appears to be increasing, displays no evidence of serious diseases, but is located in the vicinity of an active domestic sheep allotment on the Rio Grande NF. Because of this, disease transmission from domestic sheep and goats remains a concern associated with S15 (Wait 25d in Beecham et al. 27}. 4

5 a) Disease: As with many bighorn populations in Colorado, early lung tissue samples (1954) from the Sheep Mountain herd tested positive for lungworm larvae (Bear and Jones 1973). However, there is no evidence of more serious respiratory-related diseases in the herd. Potential contact with domestic sheep on the Rio Grande NF is the primary concern for this herd. b) Active Livestock Allotments: There is one active domestic sheep allotment located on the Rio Grande National Forest that occurs in S15. The Fisher/vy/Goose Sheep Allotment is grazed for two years and then rested for two years. The permittee is authorized to graze 1,2 head of sheep from July 6 - September 18. c) nformation from CDOW indicates that the south end of the Fisher/vy/Goose allotment near South River Peak is the greatest concern regarding potential contact between the two species. 21 Survey Results: Bighorn sheep surveys in S15 were focused entirely within the Fisher/vy/Goose Sheep Allotment to help ground truth information included within a Draft Risk Analysis. Surveys occurred on four different occasions and involved two multi-night trips, a one-day horse ride and 2- partial days of scoping from Copper Ridge towards vy Ridge. Essentially, the 21 surveys verified the Draft Risk Analysis in that the southern end of the allotment appears to provide the most risk regarding potential contact between bighorn and domestic sheep. Bighorn were sighted by both FS and CDOW personnel on several occasions on the west side of what is referred to as vy Ridge northwest of South River Peak. The northern end of the allotment (Fisher Mountain) did not appear to contain any evidence of recent bighorn use although several pellet groups on the east side of Fisher Mountain appeared to be bighorn but could not be verified. Goose Lake, Little Goose Lake and the nearby benches and ridges between the two lakes and vy Ridge provide good foraging habitat for bighorn sheep. There are numerous cliff bands and water sources for bighorn sheep and the area appeared to have been recently utilized by bighorn during several of the surveys. These same areas were also grazed by domestic sheep during the 21 grazing season. Use by both domestic sheep and bighorn sheep is likely overlapping and the risk of contact in these particular locations is high. Additional Needs: The Beautiful Mountain area was not examined in 21 and should be surveyed in 211. The allotment is currently up for analysis and potential renewal, but a decision regarding the future management of the allotment will not be completed prior to the 211 grazing season - there is a need for discussion among affected entities prior to the 211 grazing season to decide upon an interim grazing strategy for this allotment. 5

6 Big Goose and Little Goose Lakes. S. River Peak Photo: Red circle displays the location of 22 bighorn observed on 26 th of August in proximity to Big and Little Goose Lakes (east of ridge) and South River Peak. This ridge is referred to as vy Ridge in this document. Red Mountain Creek is the major drainage in the photo. Domestic sheep utilize the benches to the left of Big Goose and between Big Goose and Little Goose Lake on the east side. Left: West aspect of vy Ridge where 22 bighorn were observed. Right: vy Ridge between Red Mtn Creek and Little Goose Lake. Trail appeared to be used by domestics and bighorn.

7 Slope Northwest of Little Goose Lake was grazed by domestic sheep and likely by bighorn sheep. The slopes above Little Goose Lake provide good escape cover. Little Goose Lake is a permanent water source for bighorn and domestics. Fisher Mountain Domestic sheep on the west side of Fisher Mountain. The northern end of the allotment appears to be of a lower risk for domestic sheep and bighorn contact. Looking North - Little Goose Lake, Big Goose Lake and Fisher Mountain in the background (arrow). 7

8 21 DVDE RANGER DSTRCT BGHORN SHEEP SURVEYS - SHEEP MOUNTAN S-15 Male See Map No./Date Ewes Lambs Yrling ½ 5/8 ¾ 7/8 Full Uncl. Total Total See Map_ curl curl curl curl curl Males Sheep Sheep Comments 1/July Rams observed on top of South River Peak. A.Holland, CDOW. 2/August 7 8 Eight unclassified bighorn observed on vy Ridge. A. Holland, CDOW. 3/Aug Bighorn were separated by vy Ridge from domestics. C. Cochran. 4/ Aug vy Ridge. D.Clark/A.Trujillo 5/Sept. 6 (8) (?) 9 17 Nine rams and 8 ewes/lambs on vy Ridge. A. Holland, CDOW. HGH Numbers reflect the high COUNT count of individual sheep observed with no animals double counted. TOTAL Numbers reflect the total NUMBERS number of sheep sighted. OBSERVED Sor.ne individuals may have N ALL been counted on consecutive DAYS days. 8

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12 2). GMU S22 - San Luis Peak Unit 522 occurs on both the Gunnison and Rio Grande National Forests, with the majority of the unit occurring on the Gunnison NF. That portion of 522 that occurs on the Rio Grande NF overlaps both the Divide and Saguache Ranger Districts and encompasses part of the La Garita Wilderness. On the Rio Grande NF, the boundary of 522 is defined by the Miners Creek Trail (Trail 83) to the west, the La Garita Wilderness to the east, the Farmers Creek Trail (Trail 81) to the southeast, and the Saguache Park area to the North. Prominent features within 522 include San Luis Pass, San Luis Peak, Machin Lake, Twin Peaks and the Saguache Park area. Herd History: Bighorns within 522 are part of a native population that was never extirpated (Diamond 25c in Beecham et al. 27). Historically, the animals in 522 were probably part of a much larger group that was centered around the prime bighorn habitat that now occurs within the La Garita Wilderness. Historical movements of large groups of rams (and most likely ewes and lambs) also occurred as they migrated down to winter ranges in the Cebolla Creek drainage to the north. The herd is currently much more restricted to the alpine areas. No specific information was available to help explain this restriction. n Colorado, however, some bighorn sheep herds become sedentary and for unknown reasons do not appear to fully use the suitable habitat available to them (George et al. 29). Population Trends: The earliest available records for bighorn sheep in Unit 522 indicate an annual average census of 55 head from 193 through 1941 (USDA Forest Service 1967). A January 1, 1942 census for Unit 22 estimated the population at 5 animals (1 rams, 4 ewes and lambs). A more intensive census conducted in 1956 estimated a potential population decline to 35 animals. Census figures from indicate an average of about 55 animals (USDA Forest Service 1967). A number of counts reported in Bear and Jones (1973) suggest an average population of 35 to 4 bighorns from the early 195's through 1969, and an increase to 74 and 133 animals in 197 and 1971, respectively. The population of 522 was estimated at a high of 2 animals from 1986 through 1989 (George et al. 29). Between 199 and 1997, however, the population declined to about 15 to 1 animals, with a low of 5 bighorns estimated annually thereafter through 21. The reason for these declines is unknown. From 22 through 27, the population increased slightly to an estimated 85 animals. The population is currently considered stable or slowly increasing (B. Weinmeister, CDOW, 28). Photo: Headwaters of Willow Creek looking south towards Bristol. 11

13 Habitat Trends: Habitat conditions for Unit S22 appear to be adequate for both the current and a potentially larger herd in the future. Large blocks of quality habitat exist throughout the unit, with good connectivity between ranges. The high-elevation alpine habitats provide excellent forage during the summer months and are interspersed with cliffs and rocky outcrops for lambing and escape habitat. At lower elevations, forage and escape terrain are also abundant (Diamond 25c in Beecham et al. 27). Due to the large area of available suitable habitat and relative remoteness of the unit, no habitat improvement projects are identified or necessary on summer range areas. However, conifer encroachment on lower elevation winter ranges may be a concern in some areas (Diamond 25c in Beecham et al. 27). Harvest: Hunting first occurred in S22 in 1954 when 15 licenses were issued (Bear and Jones 1973). The unit was opened again in 1956 with five licenses issued. Only a small portion of the unit was open in 1954 and 1956, with no successful harvests recorded. Unit 22 was then closed again until 1959, with the entire unit open on an annual basis since that time. Twenty-seven rams were harvested from 1954 through 1966 for a total of approximately two rams annually (USDA Forest Service 1967). From at least 1999 through 21, only one ram license was issued. This increased to two in 22, and has remained at three ram licenses annually from 23 through 21. Photo: Bighorn skull found 8/21 near the headwaters of Canon Diablo near Cochetopa Creek by S. Brigham, USFS. Current Distribution: The traditional range of the San Luis Peak bighorn sheep herd is centered in the La Garita Mountains along the Continental Divide from around Baldy Cinco in the west, to Baldy Chato in the north, San Luis Peak in the east, and Machin Lake to the south. Historic lambing grounds occur on south exposures on Baldy Chato, Baldy Alto, and Organ Mountain (Bear and Jones 1973). Historically, the bighorns migrated north to winter ranges in Cebolla Creek and Spring Creek on the Gunnison NF. Currently, the San Luis Peak bighorns often spend the entire year in the alpine habitats where they utilize southern aspects and windblown slopes for forage. Those individuals that do migrate, move to the lower reaches of the Spring Creek drainage (Diamond 25c in Beecham et al. 27). 12 Suspected bighorn sheep scat located on Baldy Cinco on 8/12/21.

14 Threats and Limiting Factors: A risk rating for the San Luis Peak herd is not mentioned in the Regional Bighorn Sheep Species Assessment (Beecham et al. 27). On one hand it is a native herd that has never been extirpated yet conversely the risk of contact with domestic sheep and a large-scale die-off remains high. Currently, the S22 herd appears stable although disease transmission from domestic sheep and goats is a management concern (B. Weinmeister, CDOW, 28). a) Disease: Disease monitoring has not occurred in Unit S22. However, the adjacent Cebolla Creek herd (S52) experienced a significant Pasteurella related die-off in the early 199's and interaction between these groups did occur prior to this incident. Currently, domestic sheep allotments are still active in Unit S22 and domestic sheep have been observed in close proximity to bighorns (Diamond 25c in Beecham et al. 27). Future bighorn die-offs are considered likely without modifications to these allotments. b) Active Livestock Allotments: The Rio Grande National Forest administers several active domestic sheep allotments in Unit S22. The Mesa Mountain allotment is located in the far eastern end of the unit and the Snow Mesa/Table/Miners Creek allotment(s) occur in the western end. The Snow Mesa/Table/Miners Creek allotment(s) authorize 1, domestic sheep on an annual basis from July 1 to Sept. 15. Photo: Herd of domestic sheep on the Snow Mesa Allotment The Mesa Mountain allotment is on 8/12/21, which is the approximate boundary between grazed for two years and then 553 and 522 just south of Baldy Cinco. rested for two years. The permittee is authorized to graze 1,2 head of sheep from June 26 to September 14. c) Pr edation: Predation is not mentioned as a potential limiting factor for Unit S22 in any of the available information. 21 Survey Results: Bighorn sheep surveys in S22 were focused entirely within the Snow Mesa/Table/Miners Creek Sheep Allotment(s) to help ground truth information included within a Draft Risk Analysis. One four-day/three night field trip was completed by Biological Technician Doug Clark on August th The 21 survey did not document any bighorn sheep although scat believed to be bighorn was found on Baldy Cinco at the very north-western edge of the Snow Mesa portion of the allotment(s) abutting the Gunnison National Forest. A Draft Risk Analysis and verbal comments from CDOW suggested that the highest risk of contact between domestics and bighorn is in the northwestern part of the allotment. 13

15 An aerial survey completed by CDOW on August 26, 21 focusing on GMU 36 also surveyed the eastern portion of GMU 22 which is outside of all domestic sheep allotment boundaries. Several groups of bighorn were observed during the survey and are reflected in the table below. The majority of the allotment(s} do not appear to contain optimum habitat for bighorn sheep. Much of the allotment(s} consists of large open mesas with little escape cover available for bighorn sheep. An exception may be the northwest portion ofthe Snow Mesa allotment (below Baldy Cinco} which appears to provide the most risk regarding potential contact between bighorn and domestic sheep. Additional Needs: Additional surveys in 211 focusing on the northern end of the allotment(s} would be beneficial to gather additional information regarding bighorn sheep use of the area. No./Date 21 DVDE RANGER DSTRCT BGHORN SHEEP SURVEYS - SAN LUS PEAK S-22 Male See Map Ewes Lambs Yrling ½ 5/8 ¾ 7/8 Full Uncl. Total Total See Map curl curl curl curl curl Males Sheep Sheep Comments 1/August * All bighorn observed by CDOW on August 26 during an aerial survey. Dry Gulch. 2/August Dry Gulch. 3/August E. Willow Creek 4/August Cochetopa Creek Sf August Cochetopa Creek 't HGH COUNT Numbers reflect the high count of individual sheep observed with no animals double counted. TOTAL Numbers reflect the total NUMBERS number of sheep sighted. OBSERVED N Some individuals may have ALL DAYS been counted on consecutive days. 14

16 1,._r..;1,..X ~ '" t-t: 1 1~ --:...:... ~ (.(t'g ;(l ::.i rd ';- ttt,.-.:l c:.- ' 11_,t.!i\ J.J,.-.. 1(11!:..';._l),v'., "'41! i..:~ (.,,_ f./~.. ' ' r G R A N D E ''n ~ ( '- w"--. N A T ; F O E, S T 1' ~....._ l A '-.., -~-:- ~ -- G..1 A.., '"!! \ ~ _.,.{:lo ~ ',. / '/ ' 'i,. t \ ' \, ([,. ",, ~ ~\ - '.. - '1 ) rt-')"' (\ ' \,..,,' h ~ \.-... \ -- :::;:' l '\. SAN LUS PEAK BGHORN SHEEP LOCATONS * Sightings 4 and 5 are approximate locations in the Cochetopa Drainage. ' ' i ' '', l:..._ \... i...., - l \ l. _ -----~--'--~--"~-~,-~---- ~ '" ""\ r 1 1,. U.'P' \'' \ (, _._ J~ 1',''.1 ~ ' l t-~ ~,.,..,.; ); -ti ' t.:.",.., ')'' "' ~; r,1-.,~ih.., r,,t(- ~~n -....,1 _.,,, 1,,11,.,L1... 1',"' ~,....._.o,,. \~ \\ ;;,. \ -,, J ( ' /.,, { if ' ;i ;.'t )' ( '.. (? ;_;~ 1,. \ '! ' ~-1- '

17 12/17/21 MNERS '2NOWMESA TABLE

18 San Luis Peak (S22) B G H R N 15 s H E E p N 1 u M B E R s 5 San Luis Peak S22 -r---r r--..--r---r , , ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ o,<o o,<o <»<o <»<:o o,oj <»<» o, ' o, > o,oj o, ' <»Oj o, ' o,<» o,o:,,::p,::f:' <:::,<:::, <:::,<:::, d:::; <:::,<:s <:::,<::s -<:::,<:::, <:::,<:;j ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Years

19 3). GMU S29 - Alamosa Canyon Unit 529 encompasses Rio Grande National Forest, BLM, Colorado State Land Board, and privately owned lands within Conejos and Rio Grande counties. t is bounded on the north by US 16, on the east by Colorado 15, on the south by USFS Roads 255, 24, and 259, USFS Trail 76, USFS Roads 26, 25, and 38, and on the west by the Continental Divide (CDOW 29). Approximately half of 529 is located on the Divide RD, the other half is located on the Conejos Peak RD. The better habitat and currently occupied habitat is located on the Conejos Peak RD in the Alamosa Canyon/Terrace Reservoir and Chiquito Peak areas. Herd History: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep are indigenous to Unit 5-29 (Buechner 196). This unit involves historic sightings of bighorn sheep with records of the animals being present in the area prior to 193. Population Trends: Population estimates for Unit 529 were first conducted in 199. Since that time, the herd has fluctuated between 5 and 6 animals and may have reached a high of 8 sheep in 1992, 1993, and 2. Since around 22, however, the population has decreased with only 35 animals recorded by 24. The population estimate has remained at 35 individuals through the 28 post-hunt season. These population estimates are the lowest recorded since a die-off occurred around The population is currently decreasing because of low recruitment rates associated with disease. Additional efforts have recently been established to monitor and inventory the S29 bighorn sheep herd. These efforts include increased air (helicopter) efforts by the Colorado Division of Wildlife and the establishment of an annual interagency ground count spearheaded by the Conejos Peak Ranger District. t is anticipated that this count will continue into the future and aid management decisions regarding the S29 herd, based on available funding and assistance. Habitat Trends: The overall habitat quality in S29 is considered fair and stable. Escape cove r is abundant along the south facing rock faces of the Alamosa River, Chiquito Peak, and Jacob' s Hill where bighorn sheep are currently found. Drinking water is easily available to bighorn sheep within the unit and forage appears to be widely available. Tree encroachment into suitable bighorn sheep range due to altered fire regimes is currently considered the most detrimental habitat trend. Harvest: The S29 population may have been hunted as early as 1956 as part of the Blanco River herd (S31). n past years, Unit S29 has also been included as part of 53 (Conejos River). From 1976 to 1981 reference was made to S29 which at that time consisted of the Blanco River herd as well as the Conejos River and Alamosa River herds. The first record of hunting licenses allocated to the present day S29 occurred in However, from 1987 to 1992 the Conejos River herd and the Alamosa River herd were collective managed as S29 East. The Alamosa River population was also known as 529 North prior to the designation of S29. 17

20 Hunting pressure in S29 has involved either one or two ram tags on an annual basis. During the 199's and early 2 one ram license was an archery tag while the other was a rifle tag. As of 28, one ram license continued to be available in S29. There have not been any licenses issued for the harvest of ewes in this unit. Current Distribution: The core area used by bighorn sheep in S29 primarily involves the rock faces on the north side of Terrace Reservoir. Wild sheep also inhabit the south side of Chiquito Peak, Jacob's Hill, and the north side of the Alamosa River from Chiquito Peak to Lieutenant Creek. There have.been reports of sheep during the summer on Prospect Mountain to the west and Silver Mountain and Bennett Peak to the north. An open hillside between the head of Willow Creek and the inlet of Terrace Reservoir holds sheep year-round and is an important area for ewes and lambs. Threats and Limiting Factors: Extensive exposure to domestic sheep grazing suggests that the Alamosa Canyon herd is at high risk of extirpation (Beecham et al. 27). Contact with and potential disease transmission from domestic sheep and goats is the primary concern associated with S29. a) Disease: During the early 199s a sheep die-off caused by Pasteurella occurred in the Alamosa River herd. Although tests were inconclusive, it is suspected that the pneumonia was transferred to the bighorns from a domestic sheep herd below Terrace Reservoir (B. Weinmeister, pers. comm. 29). The Pasteurella strain that caused the die-off remains one of the worst strains found in Colorado (Miller 27). The disease has most likely persisted in the population and resulted in low recruitment since that time. t is also suspected that bighorn sheep from the La Jara Canyon area (S3) have a high potential to interact with nearby domestic sheep on adjacent BLM, state, and private land. Therefore, a concern exists that Pasteurella may persist in or return to the Alamosa herd, which in turn could impact the health of this and/or other nearby herds. Domestic sheep continue to be grazed on National Forest, BLM, state land board, and private land where bighorn sheep are sometimes found. b) Active Livestock Allotments: The San Luis Valley Public Lands Center administers active domestic sheep grazing allotments in this unit which are located on both Forest Service (approximately 6 allotments) and Bureau of Land management (approximately 6 allotments) lands. Forest Service sheep allotments are currently not stocked to full capacity meaning that there is flexibility for allotments/areas to remain vacant in any given year. Recent environmental analyses for these allotments address changed management of domestic sheep grazing to reduce risk of contact between domestic and bighorn sheep. 21 Survey Results: That area containing S29 on the Divide Ranger District was not surveyed as part of the 21 Bighorn survey effort due to other higher priority areas. Surveys in those areas most likely to provide habitat for bighorn such as Bennett Peak, Sheep and Silver Mountains should be completed. Several volunteer and seasonal employees with the Conejos Peak RD sighted bighorn near Terrace Reservoir and Cornwall Mountain on the Conejos Peak District. Those sightings are reported in the Alamosa Canyon S-29 Table but are not reflected on the survey map. 18

21 Additional Needs: One of the primary information gaps involving Unit S29 involves precise inventory information regarding the numbers, sex-ratios, and distribution of bighorn sheep. Efforts recently established to monitor and inventory the S29 herd include increased air (helicopter) efforts by the Colorado Division of Wildlife and the establishment of an annual interagency ground count spearheaded by the Conejos Peak RD. Additional information on disease and potential contact with domestic sheep is needed because of numerous active allotments in the vicinity on Forest Service, BLM, State, and private land. 21 DVDE RANGER DSTRCT BGHORN SHEEP SURVEYS - ALAMOSA CANYON S-29 Male See Map Ewes Lambs Yrling ½ 5/8 ¾ 7/8 Full Uncl. Total Total WP/Date See map curl curl curl curl curl Males Sheep Sheep ' Comments July 29 4 Four Unclassified sheep grazing west of Cornwall Mountain. C.Roble and R.Sanchez. August ewes and 1 lamb NW of Terrace Reservoir in the cliffs north of the road. B.Goble. High Count Numbers reflect the high count of individual sheep observed with no animals double counted. TOTAL 8 1 NUMBERS OBSERVED NALL DAYS 13 Numbers reflect the total number of sheep sighted. Some individuals may have been counted on consecutive days. Terrace Reservoir ram (27).

22 ic.pc rrj::. ::,1Y1:-te ('r 1!fHJlU fl.;,n-. c.~lu,z..p_ ~ aoo,.i.-,!jjtj u;</ tve l~ (,:.u w l ('~ ~ O :.O W l( C:,,2.:..\X- \\,. / ~ :,) // (i(' (_(( -- ~~~'"\ = 21 Bighorn Sheep Surveys Not Surveyed in 21 on Divide RD

23 Alamosa Canyon (S29) 12, B G H R N 8 s H E E p N u M B E R s 6 4 w w \ ' ~ - Alamosa Canyon S ,--,-----,--,------r--, , ,---,---,----,--,---, , , ~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Years

24 4). GMU S33 - Pole Mountain/Upper Lake Fork Herd Unit S33 occurs both on the Gunnison and Rio Grande National Forests, with the majority of the unit occurring on the Gunnison NF. Within the Rio Grande NF, the unit occurs on the far western edge of the Divide Ranger District, encompassing that area of the district west of Lost Trail Creek (Trail 821) and south to the Stoney Pass Road. Prominent features include Pole Creek Mountain, West Lost Trail Creek and Lost Trail Creek, West, Middle and North Pole Creeks, Sheep Mountain and Stoney Pass. Herd History: Unit S33 most likely represents a remnant population of a larger indigenous herd that originally occurred over a much larger area. Historically, there were three sub-populations within the unit, described as the Pole Mountain (Rio Grande NF), Lake Fork (Gunnison NF) and Henson Creek (Gunnison NF) sub-herds. Sheep still inhabit these traditional areas, occupying alpine habitats yearround, but typically concentrate above tree line after winter snows have receded and new forage becomes available. There are historic records of bighorn being prese~t in the unit prior to any translocations with 1 bighorns reported from the Pole Creek/Lost Trail Creek areas iri Population Trends: Current population estimates for S33 are derived from observational data from local Division of Wildlife personnel and reports from hunters and the public. Recorded population estimates began in 1988 with 33 sheep recorded. This estimate increased to 6 animals concurrently with the 1987 /88 transplants. An unknown disease outbreak in 1989 reduced the population to 2 in 199. This low number of individuals continued for several years until 1999, when the estimate increased slightly to 25 sheep. Herd numbers have continued to increase since then, reaching 6 animals by 24-25, and 9 animals by 28. The available information indicates that this population appears to be slowly increasing (B. Weinmeister, CDOW 28). Habitat Trends: Habitat conditions for the S33 bighorn sheep herd appear to be adequate for both the current herd and to support herd expansion in the future. Due to the large area of suitable habitat available and the relative remoteness of the unit, no habitat improvement projects are identified or necessary at this time. Harvest: There is no readily available harvest data for S33 prior to 26. From 26 through 28, two ram licenses were issued for the Pole Mountain herd. n 21, two ram and 2 ewe licenses were issued. Current Distribution: Bighorn sheep in S33 still inhabit the traditional use areas around Pole Mountain, Lake Fo rk, and Henson Creek. They occupy alpine habitats year-round, but typically concentrate above tree line after winter snows have receded and new forage becomes available. During winter, most of these sheep migrate to lower elevations on the Gunnison NF. Bighorn sheep have also been observed below Rio Grande Reservoir during the summer and winter months. A group of five bighorn rams were observed on the ridge between West Lost Trail Creek and lost Trail Creek by D. Gomez and S. Frasier in July of 27. Overall, bighorn sheep reports inthis area are considered uncommon. 21

25 Threats and Limiting Factors: The Pole Creek/Upper Lake Fork herd is not included in the risk rating discussion in the regional species assessment. However, potential contact and disease transmission from domestic sheep and goats is a primary concern associated with S33 (Beecham et al. 27). a) Disease: There is no record of disease or disease testing in the Pole Mountain sub-herd, although an apparent die-off did occur in the Lake Fork sub-herd in the late 198's, presumably from disease. The potential for contact with domestic sheep and exposure to disease is a primary concern for the welfare of this herd. b) Active Livestock Allotments: The adjacent San Juan Public Lands Center administers two active domestic sheep allotments in this unit which are located physically on the Rio Grande National Forest. These allotments are the Stoney and West Pole Sheep Allotments. The Stoney Sheep Allotment is used in conjunction with the San Juan National Forest's Elk Creek Sheep Allotment while the West Pole Allotment is used in association with the BLM's Maggie Gulch Sheep Allotment. These allotments may interface with bighorn range and additional domestic sheep grazing on the Gunnison National Forest and Gunnison BLM Field Office, both of which are noted as containing areas of high risk of contact between the two species (Beecham et al. 27). c) Predation: Predation is not considered a significant factor influencing bighorn sheep populations in S33. d) Competition: Unit S33 contains a large elk herd which is well-adapted to the alpine environment and may at times be in direct competition with bighorn sheep. Competition and in some cases overgrazing by elk on slopes used by bighorn in the winter could perhaps be an issue for bighorns in this area, particularly during winters with higher than average snowfall (D. Gomez 29). Large elk herd (8/3/21) on north end of Greenhalgh Mountain. West Pole Allotment. 22

26 21 Survey Results: Bighorn sheep surveys in S33 were focused entirely within the Stoney and West Pole Sheep Allotment(s) to help ground truth information included within a Draft Risk Analysis. One overnight trip and a four-day/three night field trip were completed by Biological Technician Doug Clark on July 21 and 22 nd and on August \ The 21 survey did not document any evidence of bighorn sheep in either allotment. The Stoney Allotment does not appear to provide very good bighorn sheep habitat as it consists mostly of rolling hills with little to no escape cover. Large groups of elk were observed with some areas of resource damage resulting from elk use. The West Pole Allotment provides marginal bighorn sheep habitat mainly associated with Sheep Mountain and Greenhalgh Mountains. A Draft Risk Analysis and verbal comments from CDOW suggested that the highest risk of contact between domestics and bighorn is in the northern-most allotment in this area (Middle Pole Sheep Allotment) which is currently vacant and was not surveyed in 21. Additional Needs: Additional surveys focusing on West and Middle Pole Creeks are recommended for 211 to gather additional information regarding potential bighorn sheep use of these areas. Also, Pole Mountain itself should be surveyed. Photo: Ba nd of sheep in the Stoney Sheep Allotment. 23

27 Photo: Head of the Quartzite Creek Drainage in the Stoney Sheep Allotment Photo: Resource damage by elk in the Stoney Sheep Allotment. 24 Photo: Dead willow in the West Pole Sheep Allotment. Higher elevation willow in many areas appears to be declining.

28 Pole Mountain Photo: Headwaters of West Pole Creek looking towards Pole Mountain. 21 DVDE RANGER DSTRCT BGHORN SHEEP SURVEYS - POLE MTN/UPPER LAKE FORK S-33 Male See Map WP/Date Ewes Lambs Yrling ½ 5/8 ¾ 7/8 Full Uncl. Total Total See Map curl curl curl curl curl Males Sheep Sheep Comments MNMUM No Bighorn Sheep were #OF observed. BGHORN OBSERVED 25

29 26

30 TOPO' map printed on 11/9/1 from "Colorado.tpo" and "Untitled. tpg" 17 3.' w ' w ' W /"F,/), l~pole ~l~{ylent r ' - ( ' \ " v:~. / L7 32.' W ' w 21 BGHORN SHEEP SU RVEYS NO BGHORN OBSERVED J,, 17 3.' w ' w ' W '..-, ~ d ~m 1coo unrns Printed from TOPQl 2 Na1iona!Geo~phic Hok:!.uv,: (www topo.com) WGS ' W

31 12/17/21 3 lakes fs j:::j owns:rship_slv BHS_modeled_habitat_dra!Allotments D MDDLE POLE OsTONEY DVvESTPOLE

32 1 Lake Fork/Pole Mountain (S33) 9... r B G 7 H R N 6 s H E E p so N 4 u M B 3 E R s 2 ), ~. j ' ~ j l....,..,.. / - - ~ ~..... ~ ~. r Lake Fork/Pole Mtn S33 1 ~~~~~~~~#~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Yea~

33 5). GMU S36 - Bellows Creek Unit 536 is located entirely on the Divide Ranger District of the Rio Grande NF. Unit boundaries include the area east of Farmers Creek (Trail 81), north to the trail just north of Wheeler Geological Area (Tra il 787), and down the Agua Ramon Road (Road 63) south to Highway 16. Prominent feat ures include Farmers, West and East Bellows Creeks, Wheeler Geological Area, the Pool Table Road, Wagon Wheel Gap, Blue Creek and the Palisade Cliffs north of Hwy 149. Herd History: Although bighorn sheep probably occupied the area encompassing 536 historically, it is not clear if any native remnants remained prior to translocation efforts in the 198's. Population Trends: The Bellows Creek herd increased quickly after initial establishment in A 1992 ground count was successful in classifying 81 animals. n 1993, a pasteurella outbreak, presumably due to contact with domestic sheep, reduced the population from an estimated 125 to 3 animals (B. Woodward, CDOW 28). By 21, the population further declined to an estimated 2 animals (B. Weinmeister, CDOW 28). These numbers have slowly increased to a 28 population estimate of 45 individuals. The population now appears to be on a slow upward trend and is slowly recovering from the declines caused by the die-off (B. Weinmeister, CDOW 28). Group of ewes and lambs above East Bellows Creek. Habitat Trends: Habitat conditions in 536 appear to be adequate for both the current and a potentially larger bighorn sheep herd in the future. There is good opportunity for habitat improvement projects to benefit bighorn including the use of prescribed fire and hydro axe to improve forage conditions in the Poo l Table area. A 4 acre hydro axe project is planned for spring of 211 and a 3 acre prescribed burn is planned in the area for bighorn sheep habitat improvement fall of 211. The use of prescribed fire to set back tree succession and reestablish openings for bighorn sheep may also exist in the Blue Creek drainage and Palisade Cliff areas. This latter management option if used in the Blue Creek drainage could be particularly beneficial as the area appears to be underutilized by bighorn except on the cliff edges. Using prescribed fire in this drainage would also benefit wintering deer and elk. 27

34 Harvest: All hunting seasons in Unit S36 have been closed since at least 24. Despite this closure, the Bellows Creek herd has continued to suffer losses mainly to rams in recent years. During the 28 elk season, a mature ram was poached in the vicinity of the Pool Table Road. A dead ram was found by a fisherman in 24 at the junction of East Bellows and Canon Nieve Creeks and was suspected of being a crippled ram that was reported in the area for several years. An antler hunter found a dead ram at the edge of a cliff during spring of 28 and a Forest Service employee found a dead ram in 28 in Blue Creek. That ram had a misshapen jaw and irregularly worn teeth suggesting that he starved or was predated upon the previous winter. A ewe was road killed near Cottonwood Cove spring of 29. Spring of 21, hikers found another very large dead ram in the Blue Creek drainage. Current Distribution: Bighorn are routinely reported and observed off of the Pool Table Road in most summers. Bighorns in S36 are regularly observed in the cliffs above Cottonwood Cove and Blue Creek particularly during the fall and winter. Threats and Limiting Factors: A pasteurella outbreak has occurred in S36 and may remain present in the population. The persistence of disease and additional contacts with domestic sheep are the greatest concern associated with S36. a) Disease: During the winter of , a pasteurella outbreak, presumably due to contact with domestic sheep, reduced the Bellows Creek population from an estimated 125 to 3 individual animals. A search for dead bighorns during that winter located 35 mortalities (17 rams, 9 ewes, 9 lambs). Most of the dead bighorns were located on the open hills along the west side of Spring Gulch. However, small groups and individual mortalities were also found at the headwaters of Blue Creek and in the upper east and west forks of Bellows Creek. t is suspected that the disease then spread to the Carnero Creek/Natural Arch herd (S55) through herd interactions. b) Active Livestock Allotments: Active domestic sheep allotments in this unit include Boot Mountain and Mesa Mountain, both of which are grazed by the same band of sheep. These allotments are grazed for two years and then rested for two years. The permittee is authorized to graze 1,2 head of sheep from June 26 to September 14. Permitted domestic sheep trail along Highway 149 in the general vicinity of Wagon Wheel Gap in early July and mid to late September. One band trails along Highway 149 on the way to and from Fisher/vy/Goose allotments every two years. The other band trails every fall from the Snow Mesa/Table/Miners S&G allotments. This trailing has been recognized as being a potential source of disease transmission to the Bellows Creek herd as well as the Bristol Head herd (S53). There may be some potential for contact in the southern end of the Mesa Mountain Allotment. The Blue Park Cattle Allotment is located in S53. n most years, cattle from the Blue Park Allotment do not graze the lower regions of the Pool Table area from Mill Creek on down until late fall. During late September, cattle usually graze the Pool Table area for approximately two weeks. Water appears to be very limited in this area. During these two weeks, it is very likely 28

35 that bighorn are temporarily displaced from the area, particularly water sources in Spring Gulch, but this displacement does not appear to be detrimental to the sheep and they return to the area once the cattle are off the allotment in early October. c) Predation: Evidence of predation by a mountain lion occurred in November 28 when B. Woodward (CDOW District Wildlife Manager, Creede) ran a lion off of a freshly killed (3/4 curl ram) adjacent to the Pool Table Road. Local lion hunters claim that the Blue Creek Drainage is well known as good lion country. A lion hunter/forest service employee pursued a female lion in the Blue Creek Drainage the winter of Survey Results: Bighorn sheep surveys in S36 were completed mainly from the Pool Table road with several trips into the lower reaches of East and West Bellows Creeks via permission through the La Garita Ranch. An aerial survey completed by CDOW on August 26, 21 focused on GMU 36. The survey found bighorn in the expected areas but also found several small groups higher up West Bellows than previously documented. Mature rams in S36 began showing up with the ewes in mid-november. Additional Needs: Continued monitoring of the herd, particularly lamb survival and bighorn use of areas planned for habitat improvement work would be beneficial. Monitoring of water sources would be helpful to avoid negatively impacting these sources by cattle. Bighorn ram in cave at West Bellows. Bighorn ram skull picked up in Blue Creek spring of

36 Upper Left: Ewes in area planned for Rx. Upper Right: Ewes in Mill Park. Middle: Ewes, Lambs and Young Rams in an area planned for Hydro axe work. Bottom Left: Ewes off of the Pool Table Road and Bottom Right: Ewes near the Blue Park Weather Station.

37 21 DVDE RANGER DSTRCT BGHORN SHEEP SURVEYS - BELLOWS CREEK S-36 Male See Map No./Date Ewes Lambs Yrlg ½ 5/8 ¾ 7/8 Full Uncl. Total Total See Map curl curl curl curl curl Males Sheep Sheep Comments 1/June G.Kelloff. Near Cabin. 2/July D.Gomez. At least 3 yrlings in group at Trujillo Creek. 3/July 7 14 Surveyor. Mixed group. 4/July A.Trujillo. n area proposed for Rx. 5/July A.Trujillo. Pool Table. X/July B.Weinmeister. Pool Table. 6/August A.Trujillo. East and West Bellows groups. 7/August DT Team. Separate sheep groups. 8/August A.Trujillo. West Bellows groups. 9/August All sightings on August 26 were by a CDOW aerial flight. Wagon Wheel. 1/ August Upper West Bellows. 11/ August Upper West Bellows. 12/ August Bellows confluence. 13/ August Bellows confluence. 14/ August Bellows confluence. 15/ August Spring Creek. 16/ August Spring Creek. 17 / August Spring Creek. 18/ August Wagon Wheel. 19/October T.Post. n area proposed for Rx. 2/October D.Gomez. Same herd as day before but moved 1.5 miles to the north. High Count Numbers reflect the high count of individual sheep with no animals double counted. TOTAL Numbers reflect the total NUMBERS number of sheep sighted. n OBSERVED N this are particularly, many ALL DAYS animals were probably counted several times on separate occasions. 31

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39 .O M (f).:: L.. u VJ 3: ai co - Q.J m ~---~ rl (j\ ".O 1.11 <:t - - m~~%~z ~%WW~ Z~%mw~~ M N rl

40 6}. GMU S53 - Bristol Head Unit S53 is located entirely on the Divide Ranger District of the Rio Grande NF. The unit boundaries were recently expanded to include that area east of Lost Trail Creek (Trail 821). The eastern boundary is Miners Creek (Trail 83) and Highway 149 while the southern boundary is defined by the Rio Grande Reservoir Road {52). Prominent features include the Rio Grande Reservoir, Spring Creek Pass, Long Ridge and Bristol Head. Herd History: Historic accounts indicate that bighorn sheep were native and numerous in the Bristol Head area. nformation in the Forest Plan notes that "many bighorn sheep were seen on Bristol Head Mountain in the early days, but by 1936 there were only three rams left there" (USDA Forest Service 1996c). These native sheep were probably once part of a larger meta-population with surrounding herds, but died out prior to any restoration efforts. Population Trends: Current population estimates for S53 are derived from observational data from local CDOW personnel and reports from hunters and the public. Recorded population estimates began in 1987 with 5 sheep recorded from the transplant efforts. This estimate decreased and remained at 25 to 3 animals for over a decade until 22, when the estimate increased again to 5 sheep. n 25, estimated numbers remained at 5 and Bristol Head was referred to as "a stagnant herd" (Wait 25a in Beecham et al. 27). Since then, it appears the herd has been increasing in size, with estimates of 85 animals in 26 and 11 animals in 28. Currently, the S53 herd appears to be increasing {B. Weinmesiter, CDOW, 28). Habitat Trends: Habitat conditions for the Bristol Head bighorn sheep herd appear to be good and are considered adequate for both the current and a potentially larger herd in the future. There is some opportunity for habitat improvement projects to benefit bighorn including the use of prescribed fire to improve forage conditions in the Long Ridge, Seepage and Bristol Head areas. Opportunities to use prescribed fire to alter vegetative _succession and reestablish openings for bighorn may also exist in several locations, particularly in the Road Canyon and Bristol Head to Kid Peak areas. Lamb on Bristol 33

41 Harvest: The first record of hunting licenses allocated to present day S53 occurred in License numbers for rams remained at one annually until 27, when it was increased to two. This number remained unchanged for 28. A total of 11 rams have been harvested in S53 since Licenses for two ewes were provided in 21 and will probably continue to be available. llegal kills are occasionally a concern in S53. n 27, for example, three ewes were shot and abandoned in the Road Canyon Reservoir area. The tame nature of the bighorn in the Seepage area also places them at a higher risk of poaching. Bighorn are also occasional killed on Highway 149 including a ram in 21 near Mile Marker 32. Current Distribution: Bighorn in S53 are typically observed in the cliffs immediately adjacent to and north of Hwy 149 near the Fern Creek turnoff particularly in the fall and winter. Occasional summer observations occur on the benches immediately to the northwest of the Road Canyon Reservoirs near FS Road 52. Groups of bighorn, mostly bachelor rams, are also commonly observed from Hwy 149 in the Seepage Drainage near Mile Marker 32 northward to Kid Gulch. Bighorn in 553 winter on Long Ridge just off of Highway 149 between Antelope Park Corrals and Freeman's Store, as well as Long Canyon, Rio Grande Canyon, and Crooked Canyon (Weinmeister CDOW 28). Threats and Limiting Factors: The Unit 553 herd and is considered at high risk of extirpation because of potential contact with domestic sheep (Wait 25 in Beecham et al. 27). The potential for disease transmission is the considered the primary potential limiting factor associated with the Bristol Head herd. a) Disease: There are no records of disease in the Bristol Head herd (Weinmeister 28). However, the possibility of contact with domestic sheep is considered probable, although contact has not yet been conclusively documented (Wait 25a). b) Active Livestock Allotments: Active domestic sheep allotments in 553 include Miners/Table and Snow Mesa Sheep Allotments in the far northeast corner of the unit, all of which are grazed by one band of sheep. The permittees are authorized to graze 8 head of sheep from July 1 to September 15. Sheep are trucked to Miners Creek and then trailed through the Mackenzie Stock Driveway into the allotments. n the fall, sheep are trailed off the allotments along Highway 149 back to the home ranch. nformation from the Colorado Division of Wildlife suggests that of the allotments, the Miners Creek Allotment has the highest potential for contact between domestic sheep and bighorn in 553 because it has the greatest overlap with overall bighorn sheep range. There is also some potential for direct contact during trailing particularly in the Wagon Wheel Gap area. 34

42 21 Survey Results: S53 is a large bighorn sheep unit and can be difficult to survey. Most surveys were completed by glassing from roads. Several areas were walked including the cliffs edges along Bristol Head, Box Canyon and Long and Sawmill Canyons but this area seems to be best surveyed by glassing. The 21 surveys documented bighorn from the western edge of Rio Grande Reservoir to as far east as Kid Gulch east of Creede. t appears that anywhere in S53 where there are cliffs, there is at least some utilization by bighorn. Most of these areas are concentrated on the southern edge of S53 off of Highway 149 and the Rio Grande Canyon Reservoir Road. Additional Needs: Continued monitoring of the herd would be beneficial, specifically lamb survival. Three dead lambs in a small area were reported near Bristol Head and were thought to be the result of a lightning strike. 21 surveys documented a coughing lamb (have video footage) on Bristol that wasn't as lively as the other lambs in the group suggesting that this herd may have some inherent disease issues. Rams photographed with a trail camera at a spring below Bristol Head. Ewes and lambs above the Rio Grande Reservoir. 35

43 Rams at Seepage/Long Ridge. Ewe on Bristol Head Cliff. Rams in Box Canyon below River Hill. Group of ewes and lambs above Crooked Creek 36

44 Ewes and lambs on ridge above 3-Mile Resort. Ewes and lambs above the Rio Grande Reservoir. Rams in Bristol Horse Pasture below Road Canyon Reservoir. Ewe in Road Canyon. Ewe on cliff above the RG Reservoir outlet. 37

45 Ewes and lambs above the Rio Grande Reservoir. The infamous Mile Marker 32 bachelor herd of 14, which was reduced to 13 following a vehicular collision. 38

46 21 DVDE RANGER DSTRCT BGHORN SHEEP SURVEYS - BRSTOL HEAD S-53 Male See Map No./Date Ewes Lambs Yrling ½ 5/8 ¾ 7/8 Full Uncl. Total Total See Map curl curl curl curl curl Males Sheep Sheep Comments 1/June Gomez,Clark and Trujillo. Ewe probably had a hidden lamb. n riparian. 2/June Gomez,Clark and Trujillo. n Bristol Horse Pasture. 3/June D.Gomez. At River Hill. 4/July D.Clark. Above RG Reservoir. 5/July Gomez and Trujillo. Mile Marker 32 Rams. 6/July A.Trujillo. At Kid Gulch. 7/August D.Clark. Above RG Reservoir. 8/August A.Trujillo. Bristol. 9/August 9 9 Fish Crew. Didn't classify. 11 1/August 2 2 Gomez and Whorley. n Box 12 Canyon. 11/August Clark and Trujillo. Bristol. 25 Coughing lamb. 12/August Crew. Mile Marker /August Trujillo and Gomez. Minnie 31 Mtn/Crooked Creek 13/August 2 2 Trujillo and Gomez. Cliffs 31 above RG Reservoir 14/Sept Trujillo. Saw group running, may have missed some lambs. 15/Sept Trujillo. Bristol 16/Sept Trujillo. Seepage/Long Ridge 17/Sept Gomez. Above RG Reservoir 3 HGH Numbers reflect the high COUNT count of individual sheep observed with no animals double cou nted. TOTAL z Numbers reflect the total NUMBERS number of sheep sighted. OBSERVED Some individuals may have NALL been counted on consecutive DAYS days. 39

47 TOPO 1 map printed on 11/9/1 from "Colorado.tpo" and "Untitled.tpg" ' W ' W ' W 17 1.' W 17 8.' W 17 6.' w 17 4.' W WGSB ' W 2 :r ~ 2 l/l "' (Y) ~~~~-=-~-~ g.;1.../ ~ ~,-~jj~~gn? 7 '. ;f-' /.. s. - ~ ~~~. :,,: /!.. '.. _() ~ l,. " ;;'# - (',,..._;.r... ~~., ' LJ :~-b,~ ~.\.... ~'~1~'~ ' - ~ ) ~~\ tfj,r ro 'St (Y) "'. ;;,._ } - ',, 9,;, ',,..', '., O ' g ::. - ~. ~, l ~ \. ~ k ~ '-:: "" ~. '\ ~' -_:.. i,'. -- ~ '. -.. ~ ~ z ~ "' (Y) N f\> 'St "' Mk ' W TNf/MN ~1¼ ' W ' W ' W 17 1.' W 17 8.' W miles t qi,' ,J, J J t 3 4 BRSTOL HEAD BGHORN SHEEP LOCATONS.,..... = 17 6.' W 17 4.' W WGS ' W

48 Bristol Head (S53) B G H R N 8 s H E 6 E p N u M 4 B E R s 2 ', t l - Bristol Head S53 ~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~...,,o,...,,o,...,,o,...,,o,...,,~...,,~...,,~...,,~...,,~...,,~...,,~...,,~...,,~...,,~ 1,<:S 1,<:S 1,<:S 1,<:S 1,<:S 1,<:S 1,<:S 1,<:s 1,<:s Years

49 Unit SSS is located entirely on the Divide and Saguache Ranger districts of the Rio Grande NF. This unit is bounded on the west by Agua Ramon Road, south by US 16 and CO 112, east by US 285 and north by CO 114. Prominent features include the Natural Arch, Eagle Mountain and Eagle Rock, Hellgate and Carnero Creek. The majority of bighorn habitat in this unit occurs in the lower elevations within the pinyon-juniper zone. Herd History: Unit SSS involves one of the first historic accounts of bighorn sheep in the San Luis Valley when animals on "the sides.of the mountains near present-day Del Norte" were reported in 1822 (USDA Forest Service 1996c). These sheep may have been some of the first to die out because of their close proximity to human settlements and livestock. However, historic records of numbers of bighorns in SSS are lacking and it is questionable if a native remnant population was present prior to the first transplant in Population Trends: The 1982 translocation into Unit SSS was quite successful and the herd expanded quickly to an estimated 1 animals by However, a die-off, presumably from disease, occurred in 1993 or 1994 and by 25, the herd had declined to an estimated 2 animals. The 28 estimate remained at 2 animals. The current trend for this population is declining with very low lamb recruitment rates suspected to be caused by pasteurella contracted from domestic sheep (Wait 25a in Beecham et al. 27). The continued persistence of the SSS herd is considered unlikely (B.Weinmeister CDOW 28), presumably because of post-chronic disease complications. Habitat Trends: Habitat conditions for bighorn sheep in SSS appear to be adequate for a small, viable herd. However, the continued persistence of bighorns in this area is unlikely unless measures are taken to decrease the potential for contact and possible disease transmission from domestic sheep and goats. This objective is complicated by the presence of active domestic sheep allotments in the vicinity on state land, where activities are outside of the control of the Forest Service. n the early 199's, the Forest Service completed numerous habitat improvement projects in the vicinity of the Natural Arch area to improve habitat and support the continued existence of a viable bighorn sheep herd. These improvements included reduction of pinyon-juniper encrnachment through prescribed burning, killing of individual trees, and the installation of several water guzzlers. Unit SSS offers good opportunities for additional habitat improvements if disease issues can be resolved. These opportunities include the installation of additional water guzzlers and the use of prescribed fire to improve foraging conditions and restore travel corridors north to south in areas that have become overgrown with dense pinyon-juniper. 41

50 Harvest: nformation concerning the first harvest in Unit S55 was unavailable for this report. n 1999, however, one ram license was issued. This increased to two ram licenses from 2 through 24, but decreased again to one ram license in 25. There has been no harvest of bighorn sheep in 555 since 25 because of low sheep numbers (Wait 25a in Beecham et al. 27). Ewe and Lamb at Eagle Rock on June 3 rd. See next photo. Current Distribution: Observations of bighorns in Unit 555 have declined significantly in recent years. However, occasional reports of bighorn are still received including a ewe with a lamb in 26 and again in 21. Bighorn sheep are still occasionally observed in the Hellgate area along Carnero Creek. Threats and Limiting Factors: The Colorado Division of Wildlife considers the future of 555 to be bleak because of chronic exposure to disease from domestic sheep (Wait 25a in Beecham et al. 27). The likelihood of eliminating the risk of contact between bighorn and domestic sheep in 555 is considered low because domestic sheep also graze on state and private land that is adjacent to and intermingled with National Forest System and BLM lands. Thus, reducing one of the risk sources does not necessarily eliminate all of the risk of contact. a) Disease: n 1993, a pasteurella outbreak reduced the population from an estimate of 1 to 2 animals. The disease transmission is suspected to have come from contact with other bighorns in the Bellows Creek herd (S36) which is suspected to have originated from contact with domestic sheep. Chronic disease problems in S55 have prompted the Colorado Division of Wildlife to have little hope in the continued population persistence of bighorn sheep in this area. b) Active Livestock Allotments: Active sheep allotments in Unit S55 include Boot Mountain, Mesa Mountain, ndian Head, and Pinon allotments, which are all grazed by the same band of sheep. 42

51 The Boot Mountain and Mesa Mountain Sheep Allotments are grazed for two years and then rested for two years (during these two years of rest, the sheep are moved to the Goose/vy/Fisher Allotment). The permittee is authorized to graze 1,2 head of sheep from June 26 to September 14. The same band of sheep are then authorized on the Pinon Allotment from September 15 to October 21. The same band of domestic sheep are authorized on the ndian Head Sheep Allotment for a month long duration only during the December - February timeframe. n recent years this grazing has been in February. The northern most portion of this allotment is defined by the 66 (Old Woman Creek) Road. Private lands in the general vicinity of the English Valley/Natural Arch Area are also grazed by domestic sheep. The Old Woman's Creek State Trust Land issued a ten year grazing permit for domestic sheep in 25. This State Trust Land occurs within the main core area of the 555 bighorn herd and poses a much higher risk of contact than the ndian Head Sheep Allotment on the Rio Grande NF. 21 Survey Results: 555 had the least amount of survey time. Most surveys were completed in the Eagle Rock/Natural Arch area. Additional Needs and nformation: Additional time surveying for bighorn is needed in this area and in other areas to the north, specifically the La Garita, Hell Gate and Carnero Creek Drainages. A group of rams was reported in the Hell Gate area in 29. Additional surveys to try and help determine the mid to late - summer range of these sheep would be useful information and would also provide information regarding lamb survival. The bighorn remaining in this area are the survivors of the die off and hopefully have some genetic immunity to pasteurella. However, the small size of the population is so sensitive to any event (hard winter, mountain lion predation..) that the loss of 1 or 2 breeding age females can set the population back for years. This population will never reach the size it once was without some type of intervention and even then, with domestic sheep grazing on State Trust Lands and private property, the likelihood of a viable population of bighorn surviving is low. The ndian Head Allotment on the Forest poses some risk to bighorn in 555 but this allotment is not located in bighorn habitat. The chance of bighorn, passing through this allotment during the month long period that domestics are in the ndian Head Allotment is low, but the chance is always there. For the past several years, a lone mature ram has been observed during the 4 t h Big Game Rifle Season (mid-november) most likely looking for ewes in the Twin Mountains/East Lower Embargo Creek Area. Where this ram comes from or where it goes or even if it is the same ram is unknown. There are no domestics grazing in the area on the Forest during this time but there may be a chance for contact with domestics on private land. 43

52 pregnant ewe. Had lamb at side on June 3 rd Most likely the same young ewe on May 2 th and again on June 3 rd. No./Date See Map 1/May 2 2/June 3 21 DVDE RANGER DSTRCT BGHORN SHEEP SURVEYS - CARNERO CREEK (NATURAL ARCH) S-55 Male See Map Ewes Lambs Yrllng ½ 5/8 ¾ 7/8 Full Uncl. Total Total curl curl curl curl curl Males Sheep Sheep! Comments 2 2 D.Clark. NE of Eagle Rock. : Newborn Lamb. West Eagle Rock. D.Clark/A.Trujillo. Single ewe base of cliffs. HGH COUNT TOTAL NUMBERS OBSERVED NALL DAYS Lamb was born between May 2 th and June 3 rd l About 99% sure that the two ewes sighted on both dates were the same two ewes. Completed by Dale Gomez, Divide RD Wildlife Biologist. Special thanks to Doug Clark and Aaron Trujillo, Biological Technicians, for their hard work and dedication during the 21 field season. 44

53 N,O OO 'OSoL V) z s _J c.. LU LU ::r: V) z a:::: ::r: ~ co N N \{) $ b (Y) N

54 Carnero Creek/Natural Arch (S55)* Bl G, 1 Hi Q Ri N 8 ' Si! H, E e: p N! Ul M B, 6 4 \ ' \ - Carnero erk/natural Arch S55 E R S! ,-----,---,, ,------r ~~~~ ,--~--, ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Years * Unit Dissolved in 21

55 APPENDX A Divide Ranger District Domestic Sheep Allotments and Bighorn Sheep Sightings Bellows Creek S36

56 12/17/21 Divide Ranger District Domestic Sheep Allotments and Bighorn Sheep Sightings - West Side. (, / / ', / S33 / J //~,,~ ' /: )f,. ~ Da, /-:,. SNOWMESA TABLE / / MNERS :S22 / / / / S15 FSHER-VY /GOOSE Legend ~ BHS_Sightings 21 Sightings e allotm ents_under_study lakes_fs c:j ownsership_slv :::: :::: BGHORN_summer_conc ~ BGHORN_production_area BGHORN_overall_range l"'\f-,miles 1 in= 5 miles

57 ,., Divide Ranger District Domestic Sheep Allotments and Bighorn Sheep Sightings - East Side. l S55 Sheep Allotments 21 BHS Sightings Bighorn overall range ///

58 APPENDX B ndividual Bighorn Sheep Herd Population Trends and Trends Over Time Bellows Creek S36

59 ndividual BJgbo_rn Sheep Herd Population Trends Over Time: San Luis Valley PLC 7 ; i;::: N u M B E R F 6 5 ~ SANGRE DE CRSTO --HUERFANO... TRCKLE MOUNTAN B G H R N s H E E p ~ '"'*-SHEEP MOUNTAN - SAN LUS PEAK ~ ALAMOSA CANYON ,;; ; CONEJOS RVER LAKE FORK --BELLOWS - BRSTOL - CARNERO 1 +-1>-r-D~ --1""""4'...--,---,---,-----,----, ,---, ,-----,----r--,---,---,------, , ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Years

60 Bjgh_orn Shee_p Pap1.1lation Trend on the San Luis Valley PLC N u M B E R F B G H R N s H E E p ~ TOTALS ,---,-----,--,---r ,--.---r ,--.--~---r--.---~-----~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Yea~

61 . Literature Cited and References Bear, G.D., and G.W. Jones History and distribution of bighorn sheep in Colorado: Part 1, January Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. 232 p. Beecham, JJ. Jr., C.P. Collins and T.D. Reynolds. 27. Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep (Ovis Canadensis): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) 29b.Natural Diversity nformation Source mapping of the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep Overall Range. Webpage. George, J.L., D.J. Martin, P.M. Lukacs, and M.W. Miller. 29. Epidemic pasteurellosis in a bighorn sheep population coinciding with the appearance of a domestic sheep. Journal of Wildlife Diseases 44(2): Gomez. D. 29. Personal comment information provided for bighorn sheep units on the Divide Ranger District of the Rio Grande National Forest. USDA Forest Service Wildlife Management Plan: Saguache District, Rio Grande National Forest. USDA Forest Service. 1996c. Appendices for the Final Environmental mpact Statement for the Revised Land and Resource Management Plan. USDA Forest Service. Rocky Mountain Region. Rio Grande National Forest. Monte Vista, CO. A USDA Forest Service. 29. Biological Evaluation and Conservation Assessment for Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep. USDA Forest Service. Rocky Mountain Region. Rio Grande National Forest. Monte Vista, CO. Weinmeister, Personal communication regarding the history and status of local bighorn sheep herds on the San Luis Valley Public Lands Center. Colorado Division of Wildlife, Monte Vista Service Center, Monte Vista, CO. Woodward, B Personal communication regarding t he history and status of local bighorn sheep herds on the San Luis Valley Public Lands Center. Colorado Division of Wildlife, Monte Vista Service Center, Monte Vista, CO.

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