Wildlife team plans sage grouse translocation to boost populations in Strawberry SGMA

The Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) Regional Advisory Council (RAC) meeting held on May 14, 2025, focused on the translocation of sage grouse, a critical conservation effort aimed at boosting the population of this species in Utah. Heather Talley presented the plan, which involves moving 10 to 15 male sage grouse in the fall and an additional 15 to 20 females in the spring from Blue Diamond Mountain to Tabby Mountain, a designated release area within the Strawberry Sage Grouse Management Area (SGMA).

Talley reported a promising increase in sage grouse populations, with counts showing a 20% rise in males at Blue Diamond Mountain, totaling 848, and 1,533 at Parker Mountain. However, there is no specific population target for sage grouse, as the overarching goal is to maximize their numbers within the SGMA.

The meeting also addressed concerns regarding the timing of the translocation, as it deviates from traditional practices that typically avoid moving birds during mating seasons. Talley explained that this approach is experimental but has been successfully applied to other grouse species. The aim is to establish new leks, or breeding grounds, by introducing birds to areas where they have not previously nested.

Council members expressed apprehension about the potential risks of relocating birds outside their typical breeding periods. Talley and Brian Maxfield, another expert present, reassured attendees that the initiative is designed to enhance population growth and that the birds would not be sent on a "one-way trip." They emphasized the importance of monitoring the relocated birds, which will be fitted with VHF transmitters for tracking.

The meeting concluded with discussions on future plans for habitat restoration and the potential for additional translocations to other areas, such as Browns Park, once initial efforts at Tabby Mountain prove successful. The DWR remains committed to innovative strategies to support sage grouse populations, underscoring the importance of adaptive management in wildlife conservation.