Wildlife Committee Approves Blackhawk CWMU Elk Season Extension to December 15

The CWMU Advisory Committee meeting on July 23, 2025, spotlighted a significant proposal to extend the elk hunting season in the Blackhawk Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit (CWMU) from November 30 to December 15. This extension aims to enhance hunting opportunities for both public and private hunters, as the late season is expected to yield better success rates due to the migration patterns of elk.

Brad Crompton, the biologist overseeing the Blackhawk area, presented the rationale behind the extension, noting that the late season is when most bull elk migrate into accessible canyons, making them easier to hunt. The committee expressed confidence in the proposal, highlighting the high average age of harvested bulls and overall hunter satisfaction in the area.

A key point of discussion was ensuring that public hunters are granted the same opportunities as private hunters during the extended season. Committee members emphasized the importance of transparency and communication, suggesting that operators should clearly inform public hunters about the best hunting dates and conditions. The motion to approve the variance passed unanimously, with a stipulation that public hunters must be educated about their opportunities.

The meeting also touched on the cow harvest in the Blackhawk CWMU, which has shown promising results since its introduction last fall. The committee discussed the potential for increasing cow harvests in the future, given the success rates observed.

In addition to the Blackhawk proposal, the committee briefly addressed a similar request for the Miller Creek drainage area, which would not take effect until the following season. This proposal also seeks to extend the hunting season to December 15, reflecting the same concerns and objectives as the Blackhawk discussion.

Overall, the committee's decisions aim to balance the interests of public and private hunters while ensuring sustainable wildlife management practices in Utah's CWMUs. The anticipated outcomes include improved hunting experiences and increased elk harvest success rates, benefiting the local hunting community.