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Northeast RAC approves 2026 deer permit recommendations after debate on drought and model transparency
Summary
The Northeast RAC accepted the division’s 2026 deer permit recommendations after extended discussion on model inputs, drought risks and communication. Biologists defended increases as tools to reach buck‑to‑doe objectives; public commenters urged caution given the multi‑year drought.
The Northeast Region Regional Advisory Council voted to accept the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources’ 2026 deer permit recommendations after a lengthy presentation and public comment session.
Mike Whittle, the division’s new big game program coordinator, told the RAC that biologists use three core inputs—herd composition from November/December classifications, survival data from GPS‑collared animals, and harvest reporting—to estimate post‑hunt population size and set permit numbers. “Our biologists… have three main data inputs,” Whittle said, and he emphasized adult doe survival as a primary driver: “If you’re at 85% adult doe survival or above, you’re probably growing your herd.” He also described how staff project forward…
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