Glossary

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)–A computer aided mapping tool that allows the user to create, interpret, analyze, and display geographically referenced information in a format that can reveal patterns and trends when combined with other information located in the same area.

Elk Primary Forage Area–An area where the ground cover consists of an above average density of high quality elk forage such as grasses and forbs.

Elk Secondary Forage Area–An area where the ground cover consists of an above average density of quality elk forage such as young aspen or shrubs.  Elk will seek out these areas when snow has covered the grasses and forbs close to the ground surface.

Elk Security Habitat–An area where the tree canopy is of sufficient density and size and is located an adequate distance from motorized roads that offer elk a refuge to escape to when feeling pressured.  These are the primary areas elk use to bed down.

Elk Hot Spots –Primary forage areas located within security habitat.  These are areas that are often secluded and can be difficult to find for the majority of hunters.  These are also the areas you should try to locate because they offer elk the three main things they need to survive during the hunting season–Food, Cover, and Water.

BLM–Bureau of Land Management

CPW–Colorado Parks and Wildlife

DAU–Data Analysis Unit:  represent an area where a relatively discreet herd of elk migrates between ranges within the boundaries of the DAU.

Elk Density — Density of elk per square mile within a given DAU.

Elk Severe Winter Range–Areas where over 90% of all elk are located when the annual snowpack is at its maximum and/or temperatures are at a minimum in the two worst winters out of ten.

Elk Summer Concentration Areas–Areas where elk concentrate from mid-June through mid-August characterized by high quality forage, security, and lack of disturbance.  These areas meet the high energy demands needed for lactation, calf rearing, antler growth, and general preparation for the coming winter months.

Elk Winter Concentration Area — Elk winter range where elk densities are at least 200% greater than the surrounding winter range density during the average five winters out of ten.  This time period generally runs from the first snowfall to the first spring green-up.

GMU–Game Management Unit

Elk Migratory Corridors–Specific mappable areas through which large numbers of elk migrate and the loss of which would change migration routes.

Elk Migratory Routes— More defined local routes that elk use to move between areas offering forage, cover and water within a relatively short time frame (sometimes daily).

Private Land–Permission from the landowner is required to hunt all private land in Colorado.

Public Land–Land open to the public for hunting.  Generally consist of BLM, CPW, and USFS lands.

USFS — United States Forest Service