Utah Wildlife Board Enhances Wildlife Management Strategies For Elk And Conservation Permits

In a recent public meeting, the Utah Wildlife Board made significant updates to the Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit (CWMU) Program and Conservation Permit Program, alongside reviewing cougar hunting regulations and exploring enhancements to the Dedicated Hunter Program.

The CWMU Program, managed by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, facilitates public hunting on private lands covering over 2 million acres across the state. During the meeting, the board approved several amendments aimed at improving management and resource allocation within the CWMU framework. These changes include eliminating variances for acreage requirements, enhancing management strategies for wildlife like elk to prevent negative impacts on other species, and allowing for the addition of noncontiguous land under specific conditions.

Regarding the Conservation Permit Program, which raises funds for conservation through auctions organized by conservation groups, updates were also approved. Notably, cougars were removed as a species for which conservation permits are issued, following legislative changes allowing year-round hunting and trapping with a standard license. The board also clarified rules for permit distribution, bidder defaults, and the allocation of permits for species like bighorn sheep.

On the subject of cougar hunting, recent legislative adjustments have led to changes in hunting and trapping regulations, resulting in comparable harvest rates compared to previous years, with a noted reduction in cougar incidents involving livestock and humans. The board discussed potential future changes, including the sale of untanned hides and pelts.

Additionally, the board addressed enhancements to the Dedicated Hunter Program, exploring options to allow participants to "bank" excess service hours for future use, potentially increasing program flexibility.

These decisions reflect ongoing efforts by the Utah Wildlife Board and the Division of Wildlife Resources to balance wildlife conservation with public and private hunting interests. The updates aim to streamline program operations, enhance conservation efforts funded by permit auctions, and ensure sustainable management of Utah’s diverse wildlife populations.

For further details on these updates and ongoing wildlife management initiatives in Utah, interested parties can explore the DWR Wild podcast or visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website.