Only 20 percent of the material will be dumped in the Bay. It took many long hours of work by a coalition of unlikely partners to achieve both important goals. Today's action is a victory for the economy, the environment and common sense. The disease has killed most of the prairie dogs in the colony, which is located about 100 yards from the popular Flatiron Vista trail head. Health officials are warning visitors to use precautions to avoid flea bites, and avoid taking pets to the area.
Bubonic plague is spread through the bite of fleas infected with the bacteria.
Prairie dogs and other rodents such as deer mice and rock squirrels are common carriers for the disease in Colorado. Plague symptoms occur about two to six days after infection, and include fever and chills, headache, muscle aches and nausea. The disease can be fatal if left untreated. The reserve area is currently open for grazing and limited hunting. Richardson says changing security needs have allowed the DOE to make the buffer zones, often the last undisturbed habitat in the area, available for wildlife and recreational uses.