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DWR regional update: feral pigs removed, spring turkey transplants, fisheries and habitat projects reported
Summary
DWR staff reported confirmed feral-pig removals in Washington County, a small turkey transplant program, strong spring fishing reports across several reservoirs and ongoing habitat work including pivots at Elbow Ranch and riparian projects in Washington County.
DWR regional staff told the Southern Regional RAC that wildlife work across the region is benefiting from recent wet years, but managers are monitoring a mix of new threats and routine work.
Key points from the update: DWR confirmed feral-pig presence in the Santa Clara drainage in Washington County and partnered with the Department of Agriculture on an aerial removal that removed 43 feral pigs; continued monitoring and rapid response were described as priorities. Spring turkey transplants from Texas to Oak Creek were underway; biologists are comparing the transplanted Rio Grande birds to resident birds to study clutch size and survival. Bighorn sheep on the Mineral Mountains produced about 26 lambs and staff described a field rescue where biologists roped three sheep from a steep water hole and saved them.
On aquatics, DWR reported improved trout fisheries at Minersville and Otter Creek reservoirs, a new state-record wiper of more than 18 pounds at Otter Creek, and successful transfers of crappie and stable channel catfish populations at Newcastle Reservoir. At Panguitch Lake, DWR is coordinating a dam reconstruction this summer and plans to install a siphon to pull deeper, nutrient-rich water and reduce algal blooms.
Habitat and species work noted: Utah prairie dog counts and desert tortoise surveys continue where applicable; riparian restoration and spring-snail work are active in Washington County; southwestern willow flycatcher monitoring continues. DWR described establishing irrigation pivots at Elbow Ranch to provide forage for deer and elk and to help reduce depredation conflicts; staff plan to put the property out for bid to find an agricultural lessee to partner on management.
Law enforcement and outreach: officers received awards for service; enforcement is active on baiting and fishing compliance. DWR staff encouraged public reporting of feral-pig sightings and reminded the public that presentations and some materials are available online.
Ending: Staff offered to answer questions and to report back on monitoring results; RAC members praised the Elbow Ranch work and urged continued coordination with local landowners and federal agencies.
