Utah Big Game Depredation Compensation

When deer, elk, pronghorn or other big game damage cultivated crops on cleared and planted land, or fences or irrigation equipment on private land, Utah DWR works out a depredation mitigation plan with the landowner or lessee. The plan can include temporary or permanent fencing, hazing, depredation hunts, mitigation permits or vouchers, and a damage payment. Damage to rangeland livestock forage gets mitigation help but no cash compensation.

• Landowner or lessee (written lease of at least one year) of private land used for farming or ranching

• Damage to cultivated crops on cleared and planted land, fences, or irrigation equipment

• Must request division action immediately on discovery and agree to the mitigation plan before a claim is filed

Compensation is calculated under Utah Code 23A-8-405 and may consider revenue from CWMU, landowner association or mitigation permits. Plans run for the damage incident period (July 1–June 30).

Published amounts: Damage payment or assessment per Utah Code 23A-8-405, agreed in the mitigation plan; additional compensation may be paid above the value of mitigation permits or vouchers if damage exceeds their value. Damage to livestock forage is not eligible for monetary compensation.

Notify a DWR representative (regional office) immediately upon discovering damage; the regional supervisor contacts you within 72 hours to set up a depredation mitigation plan.

Deadline text on the page: Landowner or lessee shall immediately, upon discovery of big game damage, request that the division take action; division contacts the landowner within 72 hours.