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Elko CAB approves amended elk-season structure, adds mid-season cow hunt and removes a muzzleloader cow hunt in places
Summary
After weeks of statewide discussion, the Elko CAB supported shifting cow-hunt dates to reduce cross-boundary refuge effects, adding a mid cow season in Area 06/02 (Oct. 5–21) and eliminating an abbreviated muzzleloader cow hunt in parts of 07/02–07/05.
The Elko County Advisory Board voted to support several changes to the proposed 2025–26 big-game season structure intended to reduce the ‘refuge’ effect where thousands of elk cross boundaries and avoid harvest. After extended testimony from NDOW staff, collaring data and harvest returns, the CAB approved an amendment that (1) creates a mid cow season in Area 06/02 from Oct. 5 through Oct. 21 and (2) eliminates a short, early muzzleloader cow hunt in portions of 07/02–07/05, instead extending any-legal-weapon early cow and spike hunts through Oct. 4.
Scott Roberts (NDOW) said the changes aim to sync cow-harvest pressure across unit boundaries so animals moving across roads are not sheltering from harvest in short refuges. "If those 500 elk were incorporated in 07/02, we would be grossly over the objective," Roberts said, explaining quota and objective implications. CAB members debated the social and biological trade-offs: some argued short, concentrated primitive-weapon seasons are ineffective and create public frustration, while staff urged data-driven quotas and adaptive changes if desired harvests are not achieved. The amended motion passed by voice vote; members said quotas and monitoring will be revisited as harvest returns and telemetry data are updated.
The CAB emphasized the changes are designed to be adaptable annually depending on population metrics and harvest reporting. The board also recommended additional outreach so applicants understand new season dates and expected quota shifts.
