CONEJOS — The Conejos County Sheriff’s Office is requesting cooperation from hunters and outdoorsmen venturing into the backcountry. Due to the recent snowstorm and high winds, treacherous conditions have and will continue to develop. 

Since Nov. 6, Conejos County Search and Rescue Teams have been activated over a dozen times for people unprepared for the conditions in the lower prairie and mountains. The conditions have deteriorated to the point of authorities talking of a Mandatory Emergency Evacuation Order be put into place. For the time being, it is only a possibility. If conditions continue to deteriorate it will be an option for officials. 

With the deep snow wildlife have been forced down into the lower prairie country. Wildlife officials along with deputies have dealt with numerous calls pertaining to animals being harassed by ATVs UTVs and snowmobiles. 

Hunters should be aware that these actions will not be tolerated. Anyone caught harassing or pursuing animals with a vehicle, ATV, UTV or snowmobile will be cited. These vehicles are only allowed on marked for use roads. Any use off a designated roadway is illegal.