Interested in bowhunting elk in southwest Colorado? Now you’ll have to apply thanks to a recent change that affects how elk licenses for specific Game Management Units (GMU) are obtained, The Durango Herald reports.

The new requirement is a result of a decrease in elk numbers and concerns “that there were too many bowhunters in the field,” according to The Durango Herald. The licensing change affects GMUs 70-75, 77-78, 711, 741, 751 and 771. 

To apply, first, you will have to pick a specific GMU or group of GMUs. Licenses will be broken down by unit into limited bull, cow and private-land-only either-sex licenses. Applications can be submitted March 1 through April 7 through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) website.

In addition to this licensing change, CPW is holding a public meeting to discuss elk herd management in the Durango area today at 6:30 p.m. at La Plata County Fairgrounds. If you would like to weigh in on the issue, but can’t attend the meeting, you can fill out this online survey by Feb. 25.