Wildlife Board accepts new CWMU applications and denies renewals in contentious vote

A pivotal discussion unfolded at the DWR RAC Meeting in Utah on May 13, 2025, as members grappled with the implications of a recent Tenth Circuit Court ruling on Cooperative Wildlife Management Units (CWMUs). The ruling has sparked a debate on the status of public lands within private perimeters, with one member proposing a motion to remove these lands due to inaccessibility. However, the motion faced scrutiny regarding the authority of the meeting to make such a decision.

The conversation highlighted the need for clarity and proper procedure, with members acknowledging that while they could recommend actions to the wildlife board, the broader topic of CWMUs was not fully on the table for immediate action. One member emphasized the importance of framing any motion correctly to ensure it could be presented effectively to the wildlife board.

In a significant vote, the committee accepted two new applications for Blackhawk and Prohibition Springs while denying the renewal applications for Ingham Peak and DL Bar Range. The motion passed narrowly with a vote of 5 to 4, showcasing the contentious nature of the discussions.

Additionally, the meeting addressed changes to Wildlife Management Area (WMA) exemptions and license requirements, following the passage of House Bill 309 by the Utah legislature. This new law mandates that individuals hold a valid hunting, fishing, or combination license to access first or second-class WMAs, effective May 7, 2025.

As the meeting concluded, members recognized the ongoing need for dialogue and careful consideration of wildlife management policies in light of recent legal developments. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to shape future wildlife management strategies in Utah.