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Updates on Utah's wildlife from the DWR

Each week the DWR publishes interesting and informative stories about Utah's wildlife. If you want these stories delivered to your inbox just as soon as we publish them, please sign up for our weekly email.

DWR proposes increases in license and permit fees due to rising costs

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is proposing a fee increase for hunting and fishing licenses and permits — for both residents and non-residents — in an effort to keep up with rising costs. The last substantive fee increase for resident licenses was in 2014, and the last fee increase for non-resident licenses was in 2020. The DWR is also proposing some other minor rule changes and is asking for the public's feedback on all the recommendations.

What to do if you find a bat in your house

Most Utahns probably associate bats with fall and the Halloween season, but you shouldn't be surprised if you find one in your home during the summer months. Utahns may see more bats this time of year because the baby bats (called pups) are learning to fly and leaving their roosts for the first time. Here's what you should know about bats in Utah and what to do if you encounter them.

DWR increases fishing limits at 6 waterbodies in Utah due to drought impacts, pond repairs

In anticipation of low water levels due to drought conditions and repair work that will require one waterbody to be drained, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources issued emergency changes to Utah's fishing regulations on Thursday. These changes will allow anglers to catch and keep more fish at six waterbodies around the state.

Tips to help you stay safe around bison when recreating outdoors

With summer in full swing, many Utahns are heading to the outdoors for recreation. While you are hiking or camping this year, particularly on Antelope Island, there are some important safety tips you should keep in mind if you encounter a bison.

Over 3,400 boats inspected for quagga mussels during 4th of July weekend

While many celebrated the nation's independence over the Fourth of July weekend, law enforcement officers and technicians for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources across the state were busy working to keep something else free — boats free of invasive quagga mussels after leaving Lake Powell.

Citations issued for camping, illegal target shooting on the Millville-Providence WMA

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources closed the Millville-Providence Wildlife Management Area to overnight camping and target shooting last year after years of ongoing issues, including public safety concerns. After an uptick in violations, conservation officers want to remind the public of the rules, and that citations will be issued for violations.

Quick links
Lee Kay and Cache Valley Shooting Centers
» Shooting centers
Wildlife Blog: Views from DWR employees
» Wildlife Blog
Report poachers — 1-800-662-3337
» Report poachers
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Hunter, angler mobile app
Hunter Education: Sign up for classes
» Hunter education