RAC accepts CWMU landowner permit recommendations; Salt Wells acreage drop prompts permit reductions
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Summary
The RAC accepted CWMU landowner permit recommendations, including a reduction of Salt Wells CWMU acreage of 28,614 acres (leaving ~7,800 acres) and associated permit decreases; staff also noted 2 Bear CWMU will drop elk permits.
Darren presented recommended CWMU (Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit) and landowner permit adjustments and the RAC voted to accept the recommendations as presented.
Darren clarified that the Salt Wells CWMU acreage declined by 28,614 acres because many landowners withdrew, leaving about 7,800 acres, which required a reduction in deer permits. He also said the 2 Bear CWMU will drop elk permits and explained that some CWMUs are electing to rely on general animal-season hunting rather than holding separate elk permits.
RAC members asked why land areas were reduced and whether hunters who previously relied on those permits would be affected. Darren said permit drops reflect on-the-ground acreage changes and local CWMU decisions; the department recommended approval of the presented changes. The RAC made and seconded the motion to accept the recommendations and recorded a unanimous vote.
Next steps: department staff will update permit allocations and notify affected applicants and landowners.