Hunting News

Hunters are the key to fighting poaching

Hunters are the key to fighting poaching

By Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Hunters might not realize it, but their eyes and ears are the key to fighting poaching in Utah. In the war against poaching in Utah, hunters are the front line.

Division of Wildlife Resources Captain Mitch Lane says conservation officers catch plenty of wildlife violators on their own. But the officers are spread thin. That's where hunters come in.

"We need your help," Lane says. "We need you to keep your eyes and ears open while you're enjoying time in the outdoors. If you see something that doesn't seem right, please let us know."

"Even if what you saw doesn't look like a big deal to you," says DWR Captain Rick Olson, "let us know about it. Some of our most significant cases started when someone called us with a small tip that led us to more information."

If a hunter sees something suspicious or out of the ordinary, Olson says do not confront the people who might be committing a violation. Instead, contact the DWR immediately and report the activity.

Calling Utah's Turn in a Poacher (UTiP) hotline is the best way to get an officer to the scene. The hotline — 1-800-662- 3337 — is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The UTiP number also appears on hunting or fishing license or permits. If you can’t locate the number, call the nearest police department or sheriff's office that will then contact a DWR officer or send another law enforcement officer to the scene.

A license plate number is the most important piece of information hunters can give officers.

Olson says callers often provide only the color of the suspect's vehicle. "That's good information to have," Olson says, "but what we really need is a license plate number."

A description of the person and the location where the incident is occurring are also crucial. "If you have a GPS unit with you," Olson says, "give us the coordinates. GPS coordinates are really helpful in getting us to the right spot as quickly as possible."

If you find something suspicious that isn't an emergency—for example, if you come across a dead big game animal that's missing its head—or if you have any other information you want to share about a possible wildlife violation, you can report by calling (800) 662-3337 or send an email to turninapoacher@utah.gov.

Olson says when hunters provide the information via email, officers won't receive it immediately. "If you send information to us via email," he says, "it might be a day or two before we can get back with you.

Copyright 2024 by Buckmasters, Ltd.

Copyright 2020 by Buckmasters, Ltd