Montezuma County proposal would ban non-native species

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Montezuma County proposal would ban non-native species

Ban appears to target sage grouse, but includes common animals, crops
A male sage grouse seeks the attention of a female.
Jim Hutchinson examines the sage grouse habitat that is claimed to be in Dolores County.

Montezuma County proposal would ban non-native species

A male sage grouse seeks the attention of a female.
Jim Hutchinson examines the sage grouse habitat that is claimed to be in Dolores County.
Montezuma County proposed ordinance No. 1-2014

The full title is as follows:
“Prohibition on introducing non-native species into Montezuma County, and prohibition on establishing habitats, protected areas, or other similar designations, without consent on private lands in Montezuma County.”
The proposed law cites county authority under the Colorado and U.S. Constitution and is justified in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of residents.
It also states that the “economic viability” of Montezuma County residents and property owners require protection from establishing habitat or protected areas on private land.
It states introduction of non-native species “has profound and adverse impacts on ecosystems and wildlife.”
It states that threats posed by introduction of non-native species are considerable and require precautionary measures to determine the unknown deleterious effects on the human and natural environment.
It states that federal and state law require federal and state agencies to coordinate with local government.
If passed, the ordinance would prohibit any entity or person from introducing, moving, or transporting any non-native species into the exterior boundaries of Montezuma County without written consent from both Montezuma County and the private landowner.
Any violation of this ordinance is a class 2 misdemeanor and punishable up to a maximum of 12 months imprisonment andor a $1,000 fine.

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