Utah ranchers demand action as bear population threatens livestock survival

Concerns over the rising bear population took center stage at the Utah Wildlife Board meeting on January 9, 2025, as ranchers voiced urgent calls for action to protect livestock from increasing predation. Multiple ranchers reported significant losses attributed to bears, with some stating that the bear population has surged in recent years, leading to devastating impacts on their sheep herds.

Myron Richins, a sheep rancher, detailed his experience on Durace Mountain, where his herders shot three bears and a trapper captured another, all of which had been preying on his livestock. He emphasized the need for more proactive measures to manage the bear population, stating, "We feel like there ought to be more protection from the bear population."

Corey Huntsman, representing the Utah Houndsman Association, echoed these sentiments, advocating for a balanced approach that considers both wildlife management and the needs of livestock producers. He highlighted specific hunting units that could benefit from increased bear harvests, suggesting that collaboration between hunters and ranchers could lead to better outcomes for both parties.

The meeting also featured testimonies from other ranchers, including Colby Pace and David Earl, who described the economic toll of bear predation on their operations. Earl noted that in just three weeks, his area saw the loss of over 600 lambs due to bear and lion attacks, urging the board to extend hunting seasons and implement more effective predator management strategies.

While some attendees expressed concerns about the bear population's ecological role, many ranchers argued that the current numbers are unsustainable and detrimental to their livelihoods. Anne Okelberry, president of the Utah Wool Growers, highlighted the physical and financial strain on ranchers, stating, "Bears are a big issue for us... we’re losing ground fast."

The board acknowledged the need for a balanced approach to wildlife management, with officials emphasizing that they do not aim to eradicate bears but rather to address conflicts as they arise. As discussions continue, ranchers remain hopeful for a collaborative solution that ensures the survival of both their livestock and the bear population in Utah.