Wildlife Division proposes $100 coyote bounty in crucial mule deer habitats

The Wildlife Board Meeting held on January 9, 2025, by the Utah Office of Tourism focused on the proposed coyote bounty program aimed at protecting mule deer habitats. The Division of Wildlife Resources presented a recommendation to establish a payment of $100 for each coyote taken in crucial and substantial mule deer habitats, while offering $50 for coyotes taken in non-habitat areas. This proposal was based on feedback from Regional Advisory Councils (RACs) and discussions with the director's office.

The meeting included a detailed presentation of a map highlighting crucial (red) and substantial (blue) habitats, along with a yellow heat map indicating coyote kills from the previous fiscal year. The recommendation aims to be both biologically sound and fiscally responsible, with an allocated budget of approximately $250,000 to support these bounties. The inclusion of substantial areas is expected to enhance access and participation in the program, particularly in southern regions where deer herds are prevalent.

Public input was also a significant aspect of the meeting, with seven online submissions supporting the proposed bounty increases. Some comments suggested extending the bounty program to other predators, such as cougars and bears, and proposed longer trap check intervals to incentivize targeting coyotes. Safari Club International expressed support for the amendments and suggested removing certain check-in requirements to streamline the process.

The RACs provided their feedback, with the southern region passing a motion to accept the proposal as presented, while also suggesting a $75 bounty in non-crucial areas. In contrast, the southeastern region had a more contentious discussion, ultimately deciding to maintain the $50 bounty in non-habitat areas while agreeing to the $100 payment in crucial areas.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of public engagement in wildlife management decisions and the ongoing efforts to balance predator control with the conservation of mule deer populations. The board will continue to monitor the program's effectiveness and consider further adjustments based on public and RAC feedback.