Wildlife Board updates MOU for Antelope Island hunting with emphasis on public benefits

In a pivotal meeting held on June 12, 2025, the Utah Wildlife Board addressed significant changes to hunting regulations on Antelope Island, aiming to enhance public benefit and equity in wildlife management. The discussions centered around a revised memorandum of understanding (MOU) with state parks, reflecting a commitment to more inclusive hunting practices.

The board acknowledged long-standing public sentiment advocating for fairer access to hunting opportunities on the island. In response, they proposed several key adjustments to the hunting framework. Among these changes is the introduction of a chukar hunt and a focus on predator control, particularly addressing the overpopulation of coyotes that threaten local deer fawns.

One of the most notable revisions involves the management of deer hunting permits. Previously, hunters could obtain only two buck deer permits, but the new agreement allows for a minimum of two public draw permits, with the potential for up to five management buck permits. This shift is designed to ensure that public hunters have greater access to hunting opportunities.

For sheep hunting, the board decided to manage permits according to a specific plan, allowing for flexibility in the number of permits issued while ensuring that all permits are allocated through a public draw system. This approach aims to balance conservation efforts with public access.

Financial transparency was also a focal point of the meeting. The board restructured how proceeds from conservation permits are allocated, ensuring that funds are directed towards habitat work, land acquisitions, and predator management, ultimately benefiting the broader sportsman community.

The board clarified its role in the MOU, emphasizing its responsibility to approve permits and the overall structure of the hunting program. This clarity aims to streamline operations and enhance collaboration between wildlife management and state parks.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed its commitment to fostering a more equitable hunting environment on Antelope Island, ensuring that both conservation goals and public interests are prioritized in future wildlife management strategies. The changes reflect a growing recognition of the need for balance between conservation efforts and public enjoyment of Utah's natural resources.