GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK — The National Park Service and Wyoming Game and Fish Department have determined that Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) will host its elk reduction program this year.
The agencies noted in their Friday announcement that biological data suggests “the program is necessary to maintain the herd at its population objective and achieve desired elk distribution.” The program will be held from Nov. 14 through Dec. 6. This year, 40 permits have been authorized for the program in Area 75. The Antelope Flats area and the Snake River bottom between Deadman’s Bar and Ditch Creek are closed throughout the season, GTNP notes.
“The program is an important management tool with requirements that distinguish it from traditional elk hunting programs,” the program announcement states.
Participants of all ages are required to carry their state hunting license for Elk Hunt Area 75, a conservation stamp, an elk special management permit, a 2026 park elk reduction program permit and a hunter education card.
Only cows and calves can be harvested. Non-lead ammunition must be used, and hunters must wear fluorescent orange or pink clothing. Bear spray (non-expired, in cans of at least 7.9 ounces) must be accessible. Prohibited items include archery equipment, handguns, non-centerfire rifles and artificial elk calls.
GTNP notes that hunt “areas remain open to park visitors during the program, and visitors are strongly encouraged to wear bright colors.”
Another important element of this year’s program: As part of chronic wasting disease (CWD) monitoring, hunters must turn in the head of every elk harvested in the park at a designated drop-off spot in Moose. Lymph nodes will be collected by park personnel and submitted for lab testing. Participants can check their test results online.
Learn more on GTNP’s website.
