The board consists of seven members appointed by the governor, and it oversees regulations and policies affecting Utah’s wildlife. The open positions will replace current board members Randy Dearth, Wade Heaton, Bret Selman and Bryce Thurgood.

Who can apply?

Any Utah resident can apply for a position on the board, but state law requires regional representation. The open positions include:

• One representative from the Northeastern Region.
• One representative from the Northern Region.
• Two at-large positions available to residents from any region.

The governor will appoint three of the new board members for a six-year term, while the fourth, replacing Bryce Thurgood, will serve for eight years (completing the remaining two years of Thurgood’s term before beginning a full six-year term).

Applicants do not need a college degree but must list any organizations or associations they have been a part of in the past five years.

Responsibilities of board members

Serving on the Utah Wildlife Board is a volunteer position, and members do not become employees of the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. However, they play a vital role in shaping wildlife management across the state. Responsibilities include:

• Attending Wildlife Regional Advisory Council meetings in their respective regions.
• Participating in six public Wildlife Board meetings each year in Farmington.
• Reviewing and making decisions on hunting permits, conservation policies, and wildlife protection efforts.

“To serve on the board, you need to have a strong interest in wildlife and wildlife management in Utah,” said Staci Coons, DWR Wildlife Board coordinator. “You also need to be committed to serving and representing the people of Utah.”

How the selection process works

The Utah Wildlife Board Nominating Committee, an 11-member committee appointed by the governor, will review applications and select candidates for interviews. The committee will then forward recommendations to the governor, who will make the final appointments.

Residents interested in applying can submit their applications through the Utah Boards and Commissions website. Those who previously applied for the Northern Region position before March 4 will automatically be considered for the newly opened eight-year term and do not need to reapply.

For more information about the Utah Wildlife Board and how to apply, visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website.