KSJD's Outdoor Report

Blood types aren’t just a human trait — animals have them too, and they play a critical role in wildlife rescue, veterinary care, and conservation efforts across the natural world.

Mild temperatures and low winds should make for a good weekend outside, but riders and hikers should watch for muddy sections and respect seasonal trail closures.

The Christmas Bird Count returns on December 14, with official counts at Bears Ears, Cortez, and Durango. Volunteers of all experience levels are invited to help track winter bird populations across the region.

A new report warns that shrinking national monuments could endanger drinking water for 13 million Americans by exposing protected rivers and streams to mining and drilling.

A new review finds swearing can boost strength and pain tolerance during short, intense tasks—good news for winter falls on ice or the ski slopes.

Phil checks in with early winter conditions around Boggy Draw, Lizard Head Pass, and Rico — including muddy trail closures, first ski tours of the season, and what riders and skiers can expect this weekend.

The invasive annual grass is rapidly expanding across Wyoming, according to a new study, fueling wildfires and erasing native sagebrush habitat critical for wildlife.

A look at early December snowfall across the Four Corners: Cortez picked up just under an inch, with similar totals in Dove Creek, Mancos, and Dolores, while Durango saw around two inches and Bluff only a trace. Regional snowpack sits at about 70% of normal so far, with more snow still falling. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center reports moderate danger above the tree line, and today’s storm is expected to change conditions quickly — making it a good day to avoid the high country.

Long winter nights bring bright planets, a strong meteor shower, and some of the best stargazing of the year.

Snow tapers off today with slick mountain roads and colder temps. More mountain snow arrives Tuesday through Thursday, with a cool, unsettled pattern into the weekend.

Trail reporter Phil says recent rain and mountain snow are changing conditions across Boggy Draw, Cortez, and Rico. Riders and hikers may find limited windows to get outside before more moisture returns Sunday.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is seeking tips after four bull elk were illegally poached in Las Animas County. The reward is now $4,000 for information leading to charges.

This week’s Water Wednesday Outdoor Report looks at early-season snowpack levels across the San Miguel, Dolores, Animas, and San Juan basins, recent precipitation totals around the region, and how upcoming moisture may influence drought conditions.

Mountain snow and colder temps continue today across the Four Corners, with more chances for rain and snow returning midweek.

This week’s Boggy Draw Report highlights great fall trail conditions, mild temps, deer safety reminders, and a fun weekend event for local riders.

La Niña is expected to persist through early winter before fading by spring, bringing a mix of mild and uncertain seasonal weather patterns.

The Colorado River Indian Tribes grant personhood to the Colorado River, affirming its rights and cultural importance in a growing global movement.

Warm, dry weather continues through Thursday before a Pacific storm brings rain, mountain snow, and cooler temps heading into the weekend.

High pressure will keep the Four Corners warm and dry through midweek, with plenty of sunshine and highs running five to ten degrees above normal. Thin clouds may drift through, but conditions remain pleasant until late Thursday, when a Pacific storm system brings a chance of valley rain and light mountain snow — especially in the San Juans. Temperatures are expected to drop five to fifteen degrees below normal heading into the weekend.

Sunny and mild conditions continue across the Four Corners through Wednesday, with highs well above normal — around 62 in Dove Creek, 70 in Rattlesnake, and 67 in Cortez. A weak system moving over the Rockies will bring a slight cooldown and a few light mountain snow showers late in the week, while most of the region stays dry and breezy.