The following information about Utah’s Wildlife/Waterfowl Management Areas (WMAs) does not apply to any of the areas that TFNU works on. For the full official article, updates, and maps, visit wildlife.utah.gov/wmas.html.

Utah’s WMAs are public lands managed by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to conserve vital wildlife habitats, reduce conflicts between wildlife and private properties, and provide opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife-related recreation. There are about 148 WMAs across the state, covering more than 500,000 acres, and they are primarily supported through sales of hunting, fishing, and combination licenses, along with federal excise taxes on related equipment.

Beginning May 7, 2025, anyone 18 years of age or older is required to have a valid Utah hunting, fishing, or combination license to access WMAs located in Davis, Salt Lake, Utah, and Weber counties. This applies to all activities, whether you are hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, or simply enjoying wildlife viewing. The license requirement ensures that everyone who benefits from the use of WMAs helps fund vital conservation efforts and habitat management.

Some of the WMAs in these counties that require a license for access include Birdseye, Blackhawk, Causey, Cinnamon Creek (in the Weber County portion), Dairy Fork, Farmington Bay (except for the Eccles Wildlife Education Center and Hasenyager Reserve), Harold Crane (in the Weber County portion), Hobble Creek, Howard Slough, Lake Fork, Lasson Draw, Lee Kay (except the shooting range entrance), Loafer Mountain, Lower Hobble Creek, Middle Fork, Ogden Bay, Provo Peak, Rock Island, Santaquin (in the Utah County portion), Spencer Fork (in the Utah County portion), Starvation, Timpanogos, Weber Face, West Hills (in the Utah County portion), and Willard Bay Upland Game Area (in the Weber County portion).

There are several exceptions. The license requirement does not apply to anyone under 18, people traveling straight through on public highways, visitors at certain educational centers, or individuals covered by a special-use permit or easement. Additionally, certain trails like the Bonneville Shoreline Trail and Great Western Trail within the Timpanogos WMA are covered by special agreements allowing access without a license, as long as users remain on the designated trail. All other areas and trails within WMAs that do not have special permits or easements still require the appropriate license. Some areas may also have seasonal closures, such as Timpanogos WMA, which is closed from December 1 to April 15 each year to protect wintering wildlife.

Please note that the requirements, exceptions, and the list of affected WMAs may change over time. For the most current and accurate information, always refer to the official Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website at wildlife.utah.gov/wmas.html.