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DWR clarifies testing and permitting for pen‑raised gamebird possession and release; random sampling to continue
Summary
DWR presented rule changes to clarify testing, commercial permit thresholds and its authority to sample facilities for mycoplasma and avian influenza; DWR will not require mandatory mycoplasma testing at this time but will reserve authority to sample and will work with partners to detect disease.
The RAC considered proposed amendments to rules covering possession and release of pen‑raised gamebirds. Heather Talley summarized the proposal and DWR rationale: mandatory mycoplasma testing is not being retained in rule after stakeholder feedback, but the division will retain authority to conduct random sampling of facilities for mycoplasma (MG/MS) and avian influenza to detect prevalence.
Talley said UDAF (Utah Department of Agriculture and Food) commercial license requirements apply when facilities hold more than 1,000 birds or eggs for 60 days or more; the rule revision clarifies that transport for field trials or short‑term events need not trigger a commercial license provided the stay is under the threshold. DWR staff noted that past mycoplasma outbreaks at facilities led to depopulation; MG is transmissible between domestic and wild birds and typically leads to flock depopulation when detected.
DWR removed mandatory in‑rule testing after receiving opposition from constituents and a sister agency; staff said they will pursue random or targeted sampling and will revisit rule changes if detection patterns warrant a stricter requirement in the future. Public commenters from Sportsmen for Wildlife supported the approach.
RAC members approved the amendment as presented; the motion passed unanimously.
