Wildlife board unanimously approves new big game and permit recommendations

The DWR Regional Advisory Council (RAC) meeting held on May 22, 2025, in Utah focused on several key wildlife management issues, with all motions passing unanimously, reflecting a strong consensus among members.

The meeting began with introductions from council members, including Dalen Christiansen, who stepped in for the absent Miles Henberg. The council quickly moved to review and approve minutes from the previous meeting held on May 1, 2025, at the Eccles Wildlife Center.

Among the significant discussions was a motion to explore the use of aerial equipment for hunting and retrieval of game, which was added to the action log. This motion aims to enhance hunting efficiency and safety. Additionally, the council approved recommendations for big game rules and deer permits, including a reduction in the number of permits for the Beaver West area, which was adjusted based on input from wildlife biologists.

Another important motion involved the management of bighorn sheep, specifically to establish a protocol for notifying hunters when a hunt becomes available due to a lone sheep's movement. This measure is intended to prevent disease transmission among sheep populations.

The council also addressed various permit recommendations, including those for bull elk, antelope pronghorn, and antlerless permits, all of which were approved unanimously. A notable discussion involved private landowner vouchers and the potential impact on preference points for hunters, which will be further explored in future meetings.

The meeting concluded with the approval of several rule amendments and recommendations, including those related to the CWMU (Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit) program, emphasizing the council's commitment to effective wildlife management and public benefit.

Overall, the meeting underscored the collaborative efforts of the DWR RAC in addressing wildlife management challenges and ensuring sustainable practices in Utah.