JACKSON, Wyo. — The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission has appropriated funding to improve conditions for mule deer by creating state-wide management plans and local plans focusing on individual herds.
The agency met in Cheyenne last week for its January meeting and voted to allocate $504,000 in funds to improve mule deer habitat for 10 herd units across the state.
The allocated funds will be leveraged with numerous partners, both public and private, for a total of $4.38 million. The WGFD and partners will spend the next year improving fences to help facilitate animal movement, treating for invasive grasses and restoring riparian habitat across the state.
According to the WGFD, mule deer populations are in decline across western North America. The Wyoming Mule Deer Initiative (WMDI) was established in 1998 to explore solutions to the many formidable challenges impacting the health and viability of Wyoming’s herds. Mule deer are integral to maintaining the diversity and abundance of native species.
The WGFD encourages the public to participate in future management plans.
“Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes for the decline in mule deer populations. Mule deer will likely never return to the population peaks of 50 years ago,” WGFD writes on their website. “However, the success of efforts to stop mule deer declines in Wyoming will depend on public involvement.”
To get involved, contact the regional wildlife management coordinator.
