1. United States
2. Utah
3. Letter

I am a Utah resident writing to express serious concern about the current cougar removal “study” happening by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR). This proposal- which would aggressively remove mountain lions across six units- was not listed on a public agenda and only came to light after a member of the public raised questions at a recent Regional Advisory Council meeting. I am concerned about the lack of transparency, the absence of public notice, and whether this approach aligns with science-based wildlife management. Decades of peer-reviewed research show that large-scale predator removal does not result in long-term mule deer recovery when habitat and winter severity are the primary limiting factors. In addition, this proposal appears to rely on lethal trapping, which raises animal welfare and public safety concerns due to non-target captures, including hunting dogs. As my elected representative, I respectfully ask that you: Request greater transparency from DWR regarding this proposal Seek legislative oversight or a public hearing on predator management practices Ensure wildlife policy decisions are grounded in peer-reviewed science and meaningful public input Modification or withdrawal of the proposed cougar removal study to ensure it aligns with peer-reviewed science, transparency, and long-term wildlife management goals Utah’s wildlife is a public trust resource, and decisions of this magnitude deserve full public disclosure and legislative scrutiny. Thank you for your time and for representing the interests of Utah residents who value responsible, science-based wildlife management. A Constituent Disgusted With The Way Republicans Are Throwing Away Democracy, And Returning The Country Back To An Age Of Racism & Poverty Of The Dark Ages.