Utah Wildlife Managers Update Timpanogos WMA Management Plan for Recreational Use

The Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) Regional Advisory Council (RAC) meeting held on April 10, 2025, focused on critical updates regarding wildlife management and recreational use in Utah's Central Region. Key discussions included the management plans for the Timpanogos and Spencer Fork Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), addressing the increasing recreational pressures and the need for effective conservation strategies.

Mark Farmer, Habitat Manager for the Central Region, presented an updated management plan for the Timpanogos WMA, originally established in 2009. The plan was revised to accommodate the significant rise in recreational activities, particularly mountain biking, which has seen participation from high school teams. Farmer emphasized the importance of managing access to the area, noting the proliferation of user-created trails—over 50 miles in less than a decade. The new plan includes an access management strategy developed in collaboration with local user groups and landowners to identify and maintain approved trails while eliminating less-used paths.

A notable aspect of the plan is the requirement for high school mountain biking teams to obtain special use permits, which mandate trail maintenance contributions from team members. This initiative aims to balance recreational use with wildlife conservation, ensuring that the trails are not overused and remain in good condition.

The meeting also addressed the implications of new legislation requiring adults accessing WMAs to possess a hunting or fishing license. Farmer acknowledged the challenges of enforcing this rule, particularly on trails that are difficult to monitor. He proposed educational efforts and increased signage to inform users about the regulations.

Josie Siemens, an impact analysis biologist, introduced the Spencer Fork WMA's management plan, which is being developed for the first time. This area faces unique challenges, including its proximity to power line easements and the aftermath of recent wildfires. Siemens highlighted the property's significance for big game, particularly deer and elk, and discussed the need for careful management to mitigate the impacts of recreational activities.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the need for ongoing collaboration between DWR and local stakeholders to ensure that wildlife conservation efforts align with recreational interests. The council expressed gratitude for the hard work of conservation organizations and emphasized the importance of maintaining Utah's wildlife heritage while accommodating the growing demand for outdoor activities.