Wyoming Game and Fish Department Launches Annual Hunter Harvest Survey
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has kicked off its annual harvest survey, seeking feedback from hunters across the state about their experiences during the 2024 hunting season, Oil City News reports.
Starting on Wednesday, October 16, hunters will receive invitations via email or postcard to participate in the survey, which helps the department collect valuable data on hunting activity and outcomes.
According to Jason Carlisle, a quantitative biologist with Game and Fish, the survey is crucial for gathering large-scale information about harvest rates, hunter success, and effort.
“Hunter feedback is essential for monitoring populations, setting quotas, determining season dates, and establishing other regulations,” Carlisle said.
He emphasized that every response is appreciated, even from hunters who did not harvest or participate in hunting.
The survey will focus on a random sample of antelope, deer, and elk license holders, given the large number of hunters for these species. However, individuals with licenses for other game, including moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat, are also likely to be surveyed.
To encourage timely responses, the department is offering incentives. Hunters who complete their surveys by the specified deadlines will be entered into a drawing for gift cards and prizes, which have been donated by outdoor retailers and organizations.
The Wyoming Survey & Analysis Center (WYSAC) at the University of Wyoming is conducting the survey, ensuring that all responses remain confidential. Hunters with questions about the survey can contact WYSAC at 1-866-966-2715 or email wyhunter@uwyo.edu. For general hunting-related inquiries, Game and Fish can be reached at 307-777-4600.
