The Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environmental Quality Appropriations Subcommittee meeting on January 29, 2025, focused on enhancing revenue through permit and fee adjustments and improving predator control measures in Utah.

During the meeting, discussions highlighted the potential for increasing certain permits and fees, suggesting that there is room for revenue growth in these areas. The committee members expressed a commitment to exploring these opportunities further.

Representative Balbrick commended the new director for his collaborative efforts and raised concerns about predator control, particularly during the critical fawning season from May to June. He emphasized the need for increased predator management during this time to protect young deer.

In response, the director acknowledged the importance of this issue and shared a proposal to raise the coyote bounty established by the Mule Deer Protection Act of 2012 to $100 in key mule deer habitats. Research from Utah State University and BYU indicates that consistent coyote removal in these areas could enhance fawn survival rates by up to 30%.

The discussions underscored the committee's focus on both financial sustainability and wildlife management, setting the stage for future initiatives aimed at improving the state's natural resources and agricultural practices.