The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, working with county sheriff offices, implemented temporary restrictions on recreational target shooting with firearms on wildlife management areas in 1CO counties. The move was prompted by ongoing severe wildfire concerns and continuing drought conditions throughout the region.
The restriction applied to firearms used for target shooting, as well as the possession of explosives, incendiary or chemical devices, or exploding targets. However, officials noted that legal hunting and the possession of firearms were not affected by these measures.
DWR Director Riley Peck stated that the temporary restrictions were intended to protect essential wildlife habitats from being destroyed by wildfires. Peck noted that significant resources are used to improve these habitats and that while the department supports responsible target shooting when safe, protecting these areas from fire is a crucial priority for wildlife enthusiasts, hunters, and anglers.
DWR Habitat Section Chief Eric Edgley highlighted that extreme dry conditions mean any spark can start a fire. He pointed out that sparks from projectiles glancing off rocks or metal targets are sufficient to ignite flames. Edgley referenced past incidents in 2020 where target shooting started large wildfires on wildlife management areas, as well as a recent fire at the Middle Fork Wildlife Management Area.
The restricted counties included Beaver, Box Elder, Cache, Carbon, Daggett, Duchesne, Emery, Iron, Juab, Millard, Morgan, Sanpete, Sevier, Summit, Uintah, and Wasatch.
Law enforcement officers from the Utah Department of Natural Resources were tasked with educating the public and enforcing these restrictions. The shooting restrictions were scheduled for re-evaluation every two weeks during the summer months. Violations of these temporary rules could result in fines reaching up to $1,000.
The coordination regarding target shooting restrictions on wildlife management areas was described as ongoing, meaning the list of affected counties could be updated. Visitors were encouraged to report fireworks or firearm target shooting by using the UTIP hotline.
