The Utah Wildlife Board has shaken up the rulebook on various wildlife and conservation-related activities, including the WMA license requirements and the regulation of hunting guides and outfitters, according to an update from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR). New legislation necessitating these changes was passed during the recent 2025 legislative session.
One of the significant updates requires anyone over 18 to have a hunting, fishing, or combination license for entering wildlife management areas (WMAs) or waterfowl management areas in certain counties. The board provided additional clarifications, such as exemptions for educational program-related visits, DWR employees, and other officials performing their duties, and lands managed by sovereign entities, as reported by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
Furthermore, the regulation of hunting guides and outfitters has moved from the Utah Division of Professional Licensing to the DWR. The new rules mandate an annual renewal of registration certificates and set out specific guidelines for operation, including client-to-guide ratios and application procedures. Additionally, the prohibited activities for these roles, complete with protocols for suspension, should any violations occur.
Amendments also touched the Dedicated Hunter Program, allowing participants to earn service credit before official program entry, and adjusted rules for the Conservation Permit Program. Notably, changes to the Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit program were approved, paving the way for more public access to private hunting lands. The DWR also approved plans to translocate sage-grouse populations, a conservation effort that hasn't been implemented since 2019, to bolster the species in selected areas within the state.
Finally, the board carried out some housekeeping with regard to the possession and release of pen-reared game birds, including updated licensing and disease testing requirements. Gary Nielson was announced as the new chair of the wildlife board, with Paula Richmond stepping into the vice chair position soon, according to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
