The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources has issued a temporary ban on target shooting on 25 wildlife management areas around the state. Photo credit: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources announced a temporary ban on target shooting with a firearm for 25 wildlife management areas throughout the state on Friday.
The ban was issued due to the ongoing drought conditions in Utah and concerns for wildfires. Additionally, the decision to issue the ban was made in conjunction with the corresponding county sheriff’s offices.
As such, target shooting with firearms or the possession of explosives, incendiary or chemical devices or exploding targets are not allowed on the following wildlife management areas effective immediately.
Wildlife management areas are important pieces of land to the survival of wildlife, especially during the winter months. Funds generated from the sales of hunting and fishing licenses are used to purchase these lands.
The temporary ban is in place to help reduce the possibility of a wildfire being started. The DWR says the ban will be evaluated every two weeks for the remainder of the summer.
To check on the current status, click here.
“With the extreme dry conditions, any spark can start a fire,” DWR Habitat Section Chief Eric Edgley said in a news release. “With firearm target shooting, sparks from metal targets, a bullet or other projectiles glancing off a rock is all it takes to cause a spark and a fire.”
The DWR says the temporary ban only applies to wildlife management areas. Legal possession of a firearm and hunting are not impacted.
The DWR says those caught in violation of the ban could be fined up to $1,000. Individuals who witness others violating the ban are asked to call 1-800-662-3337.
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