A strained system has led to a proposed change in the way elk hunters secure their permit for the hunt and feedback is invited. The Division of Wildlife Resources is proposing the addition of general-season elk permits to the big game drawing rather than just being a permit one buys. The reason? Demand has overloaded an already strained system. In 2019, all 15,000 permits sold out in 11 days. In 2020, the 15,000 permits sold out in eight hours. This year, the 17,500 permits sold out in 10 hours. The DWR is working to address the technical issues but as it stands, the ‘sales days’ result in a buying rush that literally overloads the system which leads to a frustrating experience for customers. Adding the elk permits to the big game drawing this year is considered a trial as a long-term solution is explored. Comments about the change submitted online now will be shared with the RAC and wildlife board members at each respective meeting. Those interested can also attend the northeastern Utah RAC meeting in person or online on November 18th at 6:30pm at the DWR Vernal Office. Online comments must be submitted by November 11th.
