Winter was mild in Colorado this 2017/2018 season and now an early spring is upon Grand County! The elk and mule deer are moving back up the mountain in hopes of finding some fresh new grass emerging beneath the Pine and newly budding Aspen trees. A new growth of antlers can be spotted on the elk, moose and deer and the shed hunters are anxious to start collecting the old antlers that were shed in late march. Signs of bears awakening are making their way around Grand County and the ranchers are taking precautions for livestock and all trash bins throughout the county are being locked up. As is Williams Fork Lodging, our chickens have had a rough spring due to the fox family learning to hunt. A new generation will be raised this April for next years egg production. Calves, goat kids and lambs are popping up all over grand county and the wild flowers are sure to follow soon. The calves are tagged as soon as possible and will soon be be branded. All of the cattle will be released into the national forest along with herds of sheep for some much needed grasses and fresh stream waters. The guard dogs will join the sheep during their summer grazing until late summer; protecting the livestock from coyotes and cougars. The lifestyle of these guard dogs are amazing compared to the common house dog’s lifestyle of plush bedding and a full bowel of food. But don’t feel bad for them as they are living the active, gratifying life they are happy and comfortable with.
The Williams fork reservoir is starting to melt off and looks to be ice free very soon! The boat ramps should be out by Mother’s Day and the campers will soon be filling the sites and roasting marshmallows.
Byers Canyon shooting range will be reopening May first with new winter closing date of January 1st./2019.
Book your weekend soon!