Cibola NWR Island Unit in AZ closed for 2011-2012 hunt season due to 3 Slashes Fire

Due to the 3 Slashes fire damage Cibola NWR refuge manager Mike Oldham has closed the Island Unit for repairs. Steve Rimer, wildlife biologist on the refuge, said all hunting on the island unit for the fall and winter of the 2011-12 season has been halted because roads are unsafe and none of the water structures that allow the creation of the ponding and wet soil areas on this unit are functioning. This will mostly affect deer, upland, and waterfowl hunters. Rimer said he didn’t think wildlife losses were significant, but there is little cover for wildlife still using the unit. The refuge put in bids for the repairs, unfortunately they didn't get submitted in time for the end of fiscal year cycle so it will be Nov before any work starts on the unit.

The Farm Unit II where the goose hunting is held will still be open for moist soil field goose hunting. Applications for these hunts are being taken until October 9 2011 www.cibolapermits.com. Hart Mine Marsh was not effected and was looking real good when I dropped by on the dove opener. The spiny naiad was all over the ponds, I saw one fat hen gadwall that was just plowing along in it like Rosie O'Porkchop at a buffet. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Najas_marina

For more information on Cibola NWR, hunters can call 928-857-3253. Discuss waterfowl hunting on our Waterfowl Hunting Forum.

Pics from the 3 Slashes Fire, thanks Mike.