US Announces Plans to Protect Rare Colorado, Utah Birds

Source: Associated Press

US Announces Plans to Protect Rare Colorado, Utah Birds

By DAN ELLIOTT, ASSOCIATED PRESS DENVER — Aug 12, 2016, 6:46 PM ET

Federal land managers announced long-awaited plans to protect the rare Gunnison sage grouse, a bird found only in Colorado and Utah.

The Bureau of Land Management released a nearly 1,000-page document late Thursday proposing restrictions on energy development, roads and grazing.

The proposals include closing or limiting the use of some areas during the birds' mating season, from mid-March to Mid-May, and during harsh winter weather. That could affect exploration for oil and gas, among other activities.

Other proposals include limits on the size of rights of way for utility lines and pipelines. Release of the plans opens a 90-day period for public comment. Final rules are expected next year.

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Read more: http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/us-announces-plans-protect-rare-colorado-utah-birds-41343664