Utah Board unifies conservation permit rules with public hunting season dates

The Utah Wildlife Board convened on June 12, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to the conservation permit program, which aim to enhance public access and align hunting seasons. The proposed changes, presented by Covey, focus on synchronizing sheep season dates for conservation permits with those for public tag holders. This adjustment is expected to streamline hunting experiences and improve fairness among hunters.

During the meeting, board members unanimously supported the amendments, reflecting a strong consensus across all regional committees. Public feedback was mixed, with five online submissions—two in strong agreement and three neutral. Concerns were raised about the necessity of these changes, particularly regarding the impact on individuals drawing tags for the once-in-a-lifetime hunt at Antelope Island.

Troy Justerson from Sports and Fish and Wildlife expressed gratitude for the board's dedication and highlighted the positive community involvement in wildlife conservation efforts. He shared a personal experience of participating in a bighorn sheep release, emphasizing the importance of public engagement in wildlife management.

The board also discussed the Outfitters Guides and Spotters Rule Amendments, with further clarifications expected in future meetings. The overall tone of the meeting underscored a commitment to balancing conservation efforts with public hunting interests, ensuring that community voices are heard in wildlife management decisions.

As the board moves forward, these amendments are seen as a step toward fostering a more inclusive and equitable hunting environment in Utah, aligning with broader conservation goals and community engagement initiatives.