An elk reduction plan begins Saturday, November 7, in Grand Teton National Park. The Grand Teton elk reduction program is authorized jointly by the Grand Teton National Park and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. The program becomes necessary to properly manage elk populations in and around the park. Hunt Area 75 is the only unit open to the elk reduction program. Hunters will be utilized to manage elk numbers within the park. Subsequently, the program has issued a total of 550 elk permits for this year. The permit numbers are set annually. The permits are determined by the status of the Jackson elk herd, and the estimated number of elk on the National Elk Refuge.
Hunter Requirements
For hunters taking part in the elk reduction program, the following rules must be followed.
- Hunters must carry their state hunting license and conversation stamp. Likewise, hunters must also carry their elk special management permit and 2020 elk reduction program park permit.
- Hunters must also use non-lead ammunition and are limited in the number of rifle rounds they are able to carry each day.
- Hunters can only hunt with centerfire rifles. No Archey or handguns are allowed. Likewise, the use of artificial elk calls is prohibited.
- In addition, all hunters must carry a hunter safety card and wear hunter orange.
- For safety precautions, all hunters must carry and have easy access to a 7.9oz. (at minimum) can of current bear spray.
- Likewise, hunters should expect to work closely with National Park Service personnel. The park is increasing its CWD testing efforts within the elk herd. Park officials will collect samples from the heads and necks of the harvested animals. After collecting the samples, park officials will submit the samples to the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory for testing. Participants in testing will be able to check the results online.
- Grand Teton National Park personnel and Wyoming Game and Fish staff will be patrolling and monitoring the area throughout the program.
- Hunters within the program should also be aware that the park will be open and visitors will be around the park.
