COLORADO - Contdimied 
Production Tndices 
Goose breeding conditions show an increase in 1959 over 
1958 and a satisfactory increase over the three-year average 
(Table 2). ‘The upward trend is encouraging as it reflects the 
success of the hunting restriction and protection program initi- 
ated for the Great Basin Canada Goose in parts of the Central and 
Pacific flyvays. The closed Season and reduced bag have reduced 
the kill of breeding and maturing sub-adult birds of this flock. 
However, populations are still critical and there appears to be a 
need for continued hunting restrictions. 
Table 2. Co:marison of Colorado Goose Breeding Ground Surveys - 
ne ee ey 
Total Observed Breeding Pairs 





3-Year Average 1958 1959 
Nesting Total Nesting Total Nesting Total 
Area, Pairs Young Birds Pairs Young Birds Pairs Young Birds 
Yampa. 
River 12 ho 74 11 he 90 18 63 106 
Green 
River y 32 a4 5 6, 76 10 Lo 81 
Total pts Th. 121 16 106 166 28 103—s—(«187 
Conclusions 
Considering the varying vater and weather conditions and 
the rather stable breeding population it is believed the fall duck’ 
flights from Colorado's production will be average or above. 
Geese still present a critical, although improving picture 
and indicate a definite need for continued hunting restrictions for 
the breeding flock in northwest Colorado. 
90 
