Program overview

Since its inception in 1995, the Dedicated Hunter program has provided sportsmen an opportunity to become involved with hands-on conservation projects throughout Utah. Participants in this program are wildlife enthusiasts who are dedicated to Utah's wildlife resources.

Upon completion of annual program requirements, participants receive a guaranteed permit to hunt the statewide buck deer statewide general archery, and the muzzleloader and rifle seasons in the region of their choice. Participants agree to harvest only two deer using Dedicated Hunter Permits during their three-year enrollment period, and may not harvest two deer in the same year.

In 2007 the program had 9,930 participants after several years of steady growth. We anticipate reaching the 10,000-person limit on the number of people who can be in the program in 2008. Spots in the program are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Program requirements:

• Each hunter must complete a conservation course to become eligible to enroll. Start the enrollment process by taking the course online. Go to wildlife.utah.gov/dh/ and click on "Joining the Dedicated Hunter Program." (We will activate this link during the enrollment period.)
• To enroll in the three-year program, each hunter must submit an application during the Big Game application period (in 2008, January 2 to 31).
• Cost to enroll: $180 in 2008 for resident adult (pays for three years of Dedicated Hunter deer tags and program administration).
• Prior to obtaining their first permit, hunters must complete eight service hours on wildlife conservation projects. Projects can be found online at wildlife.utah.gov/dh/projects.php.
• Prior to obtaining second permit, hunters must complete 16 additional service hours (total of 24 hours) and attend one Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) meeting. View the schedule of RAC meetings.
• No additional requirements to receive third permit.
• Every time a hunter re-enrolls in the program, the program "clock" resets.

Benefits to hunter:

• Buck Deer hunting permit for three years in region of hunter's choice.
• Dedicated Hunter permits are valid for archery (statewide), muzzleloader, and rifle seasons.
• Helping to conserve deer populations for future generations.
• Every year Dedicated Hunters don't harvest, return the unused permit and attached tag to be automatically entered in a special Dedicated Hunter Limited Entry drawing.

Potential limitations to hunter:

• Dedicated Hunters are only allowed two program harvests in three years. If a hunter harvests a deer in program years one and two in the program, they will not receive a permit in year three.
• Hunters can't get their permits until they've fulfilled the appropriate service hours and RAC requirement for the year.

Fees (for 2008):

	Adult	Youth
Resident	$180	$105
Nonresident	$1,032	$799
Lifetime license holder	$75.00	$37.50