Outfitters criticize new Utah hunting laws and rising licensing fees

In a recent meeting held by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) Regional Advisory Council (RAC), significant concerns were raised regarding new regulations affecting outfitters and guides in the state. The atmosphere was charged as participants discussed the implications of recent legislative changes that have left many in the outfitting community feeling vulnerable.

One of the most pressing issues highlighted was the requirement for outfitters to show proof of insurance, including workman's compensation and commercial liability insurance, to operate legally. This requirement, while aimed at ensuring safety, has raised questions about its practicality and enforcement. An outfitter expressed frustration over the complexity of the new rules, particularly regarding the number of compensated individuals allowed on hunts. Under the new law, only one guide or spotter can be compensated during a hunt, which many believe undermines safety and operational efficiency.

Rusty Farnsworth, a local outfitter, passionately articulated the challenges posed by these regulations. He pointed out that while he often hires additional help for safety during backcountry hunts, the new law restricts him to just one compensated individual. This not only complicates logistics but also raises safety concerns for families he guides. Farnsworth argued that the law seems to unfairly target outfitters while allowing larger camps to operate with multiple helpers without similar restrictions.

The discussion also touched on the steep increase in licensing fees for guides, which have surged from $50 every two years to $500 annually, with additional costs for each guide. Farnsworth noted that this financial burden could deter many small outfitters, who often juggle multiple jobs to make ends meet, from continuing their businesses. He emphasized that these changes could ultimately harm conservation efforts in Utah, as fewer outfitters could mean less funding for wildlife initiatives.

Council members acknowledged the validity of Farnsworth's concerns, noting that the legislation appeared to have been crafted without adequate input from the outfitting community. They encouraged affected individuals to engage with their legislative representatives to advocate for changes that would better reflect the realities of guiding and outfitting in Utah.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the future of outfitting in Utah hangs in the balance, with many hoping for a reconsideration of the recent laws that have sparked such widespread concern. The dialogue underscored the need for collaboration between lawmakers and the outdoor community to ensure that regulations support both safety and the economic viability of small businesses in the state.