Utah’s deer population is below its long-term target, and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is asking for public input to help turn things around. In an effort to build community partnerships and hear fresh ideas, the DWR is hosting a series of public meetings across the state to discuss ways to boost deer numbers in key areas.
As of the 2024 post-hunting season, Utah’s deer population was estimated at 295,200 — just 73% of the long-term goal of 404,900. While deer numbers naturally fluctuate, recent years have brought significant challenges to population growth.
What’s Impacting Utah’s Deer?
Several interrelated factors are contributing to low survival and reproduction rates among does and fawns:
- Extreme weather and precipitation, including drought and heavy snow
- Predator balance
- Habitat quality and availability
- Vehicle collisions
- Disrupted migration due to fencing and development
“It should be noted that harvesting buck deer does not drive deer populations,” said DWR Big Game Coordinator Dax Mangus. “The most important factors are the survival of doe deer, fawn production, and fawn survival over the winter.”
Public Meetings Schedule
The DWR is inviting hunters, conservationists, and community members to attend meetings around the state. The goal is to gather ideas and form new collaborations focused on growing deer herds—not debating hunting strategy.
Meeting times and locations:
- July 31, 6–8 PM – Willard City Multi-Purpose Building, 80 W. 50 South, Willard
- Aug. 12, 6–8 PM – Price DWR Office, 319 N. Carbonville Rd, Price
- Aug. 14, 6–8 PM – The Hideout Community Center, 648 S. Hideout Way, Monticello
- Aug. 14, 6–8 PM – Amber Room at Thanksgiving Point, 2929 Thanksgiving Way, Lehi
- Aug. 14, 7–8:30 PM – Hunter Conference Center at SUU, 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City
- Aug. 18, 7–8:30 PM – Sevier County Admin Building, Room B46, 250 N. Main St., Richfield
- Aug. 20, 7–8:30 PM – Ruby’s Inn, 26 S. Main St., Bryce Canyon
- Aug. 26, 6–8 PM – Roosevelt Library, 50 N. 200 West, Roosevelt
- Aug. 28, 6–8 PM – Uintah Conference Center, 313 E. 200 South, Vernal
What Will Be Discussed?
Since this year’s hunting strategies are already in place, the focus will remain on long-term conservation and growth. Meeting topics include:
- Deer habitat restoration
- Predator control
- Water availability and distribution
- Highway and fencing impacts
- Private landowner tolerance and cooperation
“Growing more deer in Utah is one of our agency’s top priorities,” said DWR Director Riley Peck. “We hope to build strong partnerships with those who care about deer conservation across the state.”
Photos & More Info
High-resolution images are available via the DWR photo gallery.
For media inquiries, contact Public Information Officer Faith Heaton Jolley at 385-266-2640.
