According to the DWR, Utah’s 2024 post-hunting season deer population was estimated at approximately 295,200 — just 73% of the state’s long-term management goal of 404,900. Officials say the decline is due to a combination of factors including extreme weather, habitat degradation, migration barriers, and predation.

“The most important drivers of our deer population are fawn production, fawn survival through winter, and the health of our doe population,” said Dax Mangus, DWR big game coordinator. “A common misconception is that buck harvest numbers are responsible for population decline, but bucks don’t contribute to population growth — does do.”

Mangus emphasized that how Utah hunts bucks is driven by population trends — not the other way around.

In light of these challenges, the DWR will host a series of community meetings across the state to gather ideas, build partnerships, and engage residents in meaningful discussion about the future of Utah’s deer. Topics will focus on habitat restoration, predator control, water access, migration barriers such as highways and fences, and public tolerance for deer on private land.

“Growing more deer in Utah is one of our agency’s top priorities,” said DWR Director Riley Peck. “We’ve made a lot of progress in understanding the causes of population decline, but we can’t do this alone. It’s going to take partnerships with local communities, hunters, and conservationists. We’re looking forward to hearing from those who want to be part of the solution.”

While hunting strategies will not be addressed in these meetings — as they are already governed by the Utah Mule Deer Statewide Management Plan — participants will have the opportunity to share ideas and feedback on practical solutions for deer conservation.

The meetings will be held at the following locations:

• July 31, 6-8 p.m. – Willard City Multi-Purpose Building, 80 W. 50 South, Willard
• Aug. 12, 6-8 p.m. – DWR Office, 319 N. Carbonville Road, Price
• Aug. 14, 6-8 p.m. – The Hideout Community Center, 648 S. Hideout Way, Monticello
• Aug. 14, 6-8 p.m. – Amber Room, Mountain America Museum of Ancient Life, 2929 Thanksgiving Way, Lehi
• Aug. 14, 7-8:30 p.m. – Charles R. Hunter Room, Hunter Conference Center, SUU, 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City
• Aug. 18, 7-8:30 p.m. – Sevier County Administration Building, Room B46, 250 N. Main Street, Richfield
• Aug. 20, 7-8:30 p.m. – Ruby’s Inn, 26 S. Main Street, Bryce Canyon
• Aug. 26, 6-8 p.m. – Roosevelt Library, 50 N. 200 West, Roosevelt
• Aug. 28, 6-8 p.m. – Uintah Conference Center, 313 E. 200 South, Vernal

Those unable to attend in person are encouraged to stay informed through the DWR website and provide comments online where available.

“This is a statewide effort,” said Peck. “Whether you’re a lifelong hunter, a private landowner, or just someone who appreciates Utah’s wildlife, your voice matters. Together, we can build a stronger future for mule deer in our state.”