JACKSON, Wyo. — On Monday, Dec. 2, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) has invited the Jackson community to discuss the future of Wyoming’s mule deer. The public meeting will be held at Teton County Library from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
According to WGFD, the discussion will allow landowners, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts to share their insights with WGFD wildlife biologists and game wardens. Instead of a formal presentation, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions about the conservation and management of local herds.
“Based on the results of a 2023 hunter attitude survey, Wyoming hunters would like more of a voice in the future of mule deer management,” the WGFD said in a statement. “These focused conversations are designed to connect the public with wildlife managers to facilitate discussion and provide space for diverse perspectives.”
The WGFD said in the announcement that mule deer populations have continued to decline due to climate change, habitat loss, predation, disease, fencing and roads and competition with elk and white-tailed deer for resources. Due to widespread public concern regarding mule deer populations, the agency is conducting a series of community mule deer conversations to gather perspectives and input from the public in an informal setting.
Comments gathered at mule deer community conversations across the state will be compiled and compared to additional data, including the results of the 2023 Mule Deer Hunter Attitude Survey, the WGFD says. The WGFD will use the information to determine the next steps in the management of Wyoming’s mule deer populations.
