Hunters planning on going afield during next week's season openers should check with local Fish, Wildlife and Parks offices to make sure private lands are still available for hunting.

Several landowners participating in the Block Management program are delaying allowing hunting and other activities until the weather turns cooler and wetter.

"It is still very dry and the potential for fire remains extremely high," said Pete Johnson, Helena-area Block Management coordinator. "Therefore, some landowners have decided to postpone letting hunters on their property until things improve."

According to Mike Korn, FWP's Helena area coordinator, both the Sieben Ranch and the Potter Ranch have decided to delay access to hunters.

Under agreements made for public access with FWP, Block Management landowners can temporarily close their property under certain conditions.

"We're all hoping for better weather, but until then, we need to respect the concerns of landowners for the threat of wildfire and appreciate the hunters' cooperation and willingness to be flexible under the circumstances," Johnson said.

Local FWP offices can provide hunters with the most current information on closures and delays. Helena area Block Management information is available at the Helena Area Resource Office at 930 Custer Ave. West, 495-3260. The office is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but will be closed on Monday for Labor Day.

Sept. 1 is the season opener for all upland game birds, with the exception of pheasant, which opens Oct. 11.

Archery season openers for deer, elk and antelope is Sept. 6.