Horse gathering

The BLM this week signed a decision to remove up to 50 wild horses in early September from the Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Range northwest of DeBeque to improve range conditions for the remaining wild horses.

Current numbers place the herd population at approximately 154 horses. Range conditions have suffered due to recent drought. The wild horse population is increasing and requires a gather to ensure the wild horses have enough winter forage to survive, as well as to ensure adequate forage exists for wildlife.

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The BLM will identify removal candidates with the aid of the Friends of the Mustangs, a local wild horse advocacy group. Horses removed from the range will be transported to the Mesa County Sheriff Posse to await adoption. Those interested in adopting a wild horse or burro can learn more at: http://www.blm.gov/wo/st/en/prog/whbprogram.html.

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Even pools need facelifts

The Orchard Mesa Community Center Pool will be closed beginning Sept. 2 for renovations. The bottom and sides of the pool will be replastered and the pool deck will be replaced during this closure. Additionally, the locker rooms and front desk area will be updated to meet ADA codes for swimming pools. The project is expected to run through Oct. 7.

A re-dedication ceremony is planned for 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18, to showcase the remodel, as well as to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the pool’s construction in 1983. There will be discounted pool admission for all ages, free waterslide, giveaways, a cookout, cake, and facility tours throughout the evening.

Still time to sign up

The 12th annual Western Colorado Senior Games is set for Aug. 26-30. The games are for competitors ages 50+ as of Aug. 26. Compete in track and field events, swimming, pickleball, golf, billiards, basketball, a run/walk, cards, dancing, bowling and much more! Registration forms are available at GJ Parks and Recreation administration office at Lincoln Park or at the Senior Recreation Center at 550 Ouray Ave. Deadline is Aug. 12, so hurry! For more information, contact Lorie =at 970-254-3876.

Attention, shutterbugs

Design of the 2014 City Calendar and Annual Report has begun and the City of GJ is looking for citizens to submit photographs to fill the pages. Photos are due no later than 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26. A link to an informational flyer with all the details about the contest can be found on the City’s website at http://www.gjcity.org under the “City Spotlight” section. For more information, call Sam Rainguet at 970-244-1507 or email samr@gjcity.org.

Sleep apnea awareness class

A free sleep apnea awareness class presented by Dr. James M. Kennedy of DentoCranial Thearapeutics is planned for 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13, at Hospice Care Center, 3090-B N. 12th St., conference room 102 (lower level). For more information, call 970-257-1565. The event is hosted by Preferred Homecare.

Library to host business market research training

In business, information is power. At Mesa County Libraries, local businesses can use ReferenceUSA to find detailed information on competitors, similar businesses and potential customers. Access to ReferenceUSA and training in its use are offered through the library.

A free training session led by Kam Draper on how to use ReferenceUSA in market research is scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 12, in the Central Library Community Room at Fifth and Grand. Seating is limited; register at 970-243-4442 or online at mesacountylibraries.org.

Bone up on bowhunting

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is offering a free, Bowhunter Education class Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 17-18, at the Horsethief Canyon State Wildlife Area.

In Colorado, the class is considered an advanced hunter education course but is not required. Course topics include the bowhunter’s responsibilities, equipment, range estimation, hunt planning, tree stands, survival skills, basic first aid and many other useful archery skills.

Archers with their own equipment are asked to bring their bow and three arrows with field points for the second day. For novice archers, equipment will be available to borrow.

Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Call 970-255-6100 or visit http://www.register-ed.com/events/view/34468.