Habitat Council revises Swan Creek WMA plan to address increased recreational use

The DWR RAC Meeting for the Northern Region, held on April 9, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding wildlife management areas (WMAs) and habitat management plans. Key topics included the need for improved management of recreational use in WMAs and the revision of the Swan Creek WMA Habitat Management Plan.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the misuse of WMAs, particularly the Tenth and August WMA, which has been overrun by bike and hiking trails, undermining its intended purpose as a winter camp. Participants emphasized the importance of learning from past mistakes to prevent further degradation of these areas. A member expressed satisfaction with the compromises reached regarding camping regulations, acknowledging the historical context of land use.

The meeting also highlighted the revision of the Swan Creek WMA Habitat Management Plan, which had not been updated in a decade. Zach Oman, a habitat biologist, explained that the revision was prompted by increased development and year-round use of the area. The updated plan includes new access management strategies, such as seasonal closures and motor vehicle restrictions, aimed at preserving the habitat.

Additionally, there was a call for better collaboration between the Division of Wildlife Resources and the Forest Service to enhance planning for recreational access and trail management in WMAs. The meeting concluded without any formal actions, but the discussions underscored the ongoing efforts to balance recreational use with habitat preservation in Utah's wildlife management areas.