Utah Wildlife Board adjusts doe pronghorn hunt permits amid application confusion

In a pivotal Wildlife Board meeting held on June 12, 2025, in Utah, the board addressed a significant oversight regarding the doe pronghorn hunt application process. Dax Mangus, the big game coordinator, revealed that a miscommunication had led to the incorrect advertisement of the hunt as a two-doe permit, when it was intended to be a one-doe permit. This confusion arose just as the application period was closing, creating urgency for a resolution.

Mangus proposed to maintain the hunt as a two-doe permit, as it had been advertised and applicants had already submitted their applications based on that understanding. He assured the board that the local wildlife population could sustain this decision without negative impacts, citing discussions with regional officials who confirmed the hunt's specific boundaries and management strategies.

While the board acknowledged the miscommunication, they opted not to vote on the matter, emphasizing the importance of transparency and proper public notification in future decisions. The board expressed confidence in refining their processes to prevent similar issues from occurring again.

As the meeting concluded, the board members expressed their appreciation for the collaborative spirit and commitment to wildlife management, setting a positive tone for future discussions. The next board meeting is scheduled for August, where they plan to revisit the application process and ensure clearer communication moving forward.