Look Out – “Hunt and Convention” Feb 6-8, 2014

Residents of Talavera should know the annual coyote “Hunt and Convention” organized by the Utah-based Predator Masters group is taking place this week in and around Las Cruces. The official events are scheduled for Feb. 6-8 but some members posted on Facebook that they have already arrived in town and started hunting coyotes. The participants will gather for socializing in the evening at the NM Farm and Ranch Museum, and disperse throughout the area during the day to call and shoot coyotes, mostly on public lands managed by the BLM.

Coyotes are not protected under state or federal law, and it is legal to hunt on BLM land. We have been told some Convention attendees are encouraging a hunt on Baylor Canyon and other public lands. Although legal, this event is something that other users of public lands should be aware of as a potential safety threat. Residents should also know that state law prohibits the discharging of a firearm within 150 yards of an inhabited building without permission of the property owner. Also, there will be protest against the event on Saturday, Feb. 8, 1-2 pm at the corner of University and Triviz. If anyone is interested, they can call SWEC at (575) 522-5552 for more information.

To those residents who enjoy long hikes deep into the BLM land, we urge you to use caution if you walk or bike on or near BLM land anywhere in Dona Ana County during next weekend. If you do go walking or biking, wear very bright colors such as fluorescent orange. Please pay special attention to keeping you and your pets safe. Do not let dogs run loose. Dog owners may wish to give their pets orange vests or bandannas for additional safety if they are outside for any reason.

Keep safe,

Janet Honek
TCA Secretary