Wildlife officials adjust pronghorn management strategies after transplant mortality concerns

The DWR RAC Meeting for the Northeastern Region took place on April 17, 2025, focusing on wildlife management strategies, particularly concerning pronghorn populations and hunting regulations. The meeting addressed several key agenda items, including updates on the coyote bounty program, pronghorn transplant efforts, and public feedback on hunting permits.

The meeting began with discussions on recent changes to the coyote bounty program, aimed at maximizing benefits for mule deer populations. Participants noted that pronghorn in the region tend to congregate around irrigated hay fields, leading to higher production rates. However, there is a desire to see more pronghorn in desert areas rather than in agricultural fields. Efforts have been made to transplant pronghorn and collaborate with landowners to manage populations effectively.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to pronghorn transplanting efforts. It was noted that winter is the preferred season for capturing and relocating pronghorn to minimize stress and overheating. Previous transplant efforts, particularly from Parker Mountain, faced challenges, including higher mortality rates due to environmental factors and predation. As a result, the current management strategy will focus more on hunting as a tool for population control while reassessing transplant methods.

The discussion also highlighted the population objectives for pronghorn in specific areas, such as the Nine Mile unit. Current counts indicate that the population is below the target, prompting aggressive management strategies, including doe hunts to reduce numbers in agricultural fields. Despite these efforts, the average age of harvested bucks remains above the management objective, indicating a healthy population structure.

Public comments were solicited, revealing mixed opinions on pronghorn hunting permits. Some respondents expressed concerns about the number of permits issued, particularly for archery hunting on the Parker Mountain unit, suggesting that the increase from 14 to 16 permits could lead to complications.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to support the proposed hunting permit recommendations for 2025, reflecting a collaborative approach to wildlife management in the region. The DWR will continue to monitor pronghorn populations and adjust strategies as necessary to ensure sustainable management practices.