anyone ever see NM forestry close down the forest?

[sancho]

3 years ago, there was no rain. elk hunting was at risk because forestry shut down the mountains...nobody in, for fear of forest fire. at the last minute, the skys dumped life onto the mountains and all was well. we hunted!

my brother called and told me this year is even worse. anyone ever see elk (or deer) season shut down because of drought? do we get refunds if we draw? just wondering.

cliff

 

[hank4elk]

If I recall most of So. NM was closed for alot of summer right up til before hunts last year too.And then the rains hit as they do. Thats why you watch the weather in the area you hunt ALL YEAR! It can tell you what to expect and what way you hunt,IMHO. It depends on the unit you plan to hunt. There can be more chance of fire from dryness early in year than the thunderstorm fire time. Watch the winter before, and the spring & summer seasons are what effect them the most. As for refund, I guess it's up to the state. Alot of folk's here in CA. can get same problem. But I have never had it closed where I hunt except a while one year.

 

[warren nelson]

I hope that don't happen. I wonder did it stop the ranchers who ran cow on that ground or was they allow to check on thier cows.

 

[hank4elk]

I think they shut it down. But the locals might still have access if they own property in area. But I do know USDA/FS can shut things from experience here.

 

[bpnclark]

I haven't seen the NF Dept do it, but I have seen a person gate off a Gila NF road (claming it was private property). We asked the locals how he can do it and get away with it, they all said he is just a big A-Hole.

I dont think I would ever listen to anyone about a New Mexico NF being closed after seeing that.