As of now, Utah will not have a closure on the 2018 shed antler season. Most of the surrounding states are issuing a shed gathering closure, shares Division of Wildlife Resources Outreach Manager Tonya Kieffer, which has the potential to flood Utah with shed hunters from surrounding states. One thing Utahns need to make note of is that in order to gather shed antlers
between February 1st and April 15th
they must take the online course, complete it, and carry the certificate on their person while gathering sheds. Gathering shed antlers is considered an activity the entire family can enjoy but it’s crucial that all remember that late winter and early spring is a tough time of year for deer, elk, and moose. “During winter,” shares DWR Captain Justin Shirley, “big game animals, especially deer, often have a difficult time finding food.” The free course will teach shed antler hunters how to go out gathering without stressing the animals or damaging their habitat. To take the course, visit
www.wildlife.utah.gov/shedantler
.
