Game & Fish Wants to Raise Hunting Fees
Non-residents hit hardest
by Jennifer Binning

According to reports in the Jackson Hole News and the Casper Star Tribune, the Game and Fish is looking at the option of raising hunting fees in order to help meet long term planning goals.

G&F spokesman Don Miller said the department has been dipping into rainy day funds to balance the budget, and if this continues, the fund will be exhausted in the near future. Mr. Miller said this fee hike would not be used for additional programs, but only to balance the Game and Fish budget.

The biggest proposed hike would be for an out-of-state deer license, which would increase from $185 to $210. Non-resident small game and game bird licenses would increase by $5, and the daily non-resident fishing licenses would increase to $10.

According to the Star Tribune, Rep. Doug Samuelson (R-Cheyenne) said " We just have such world class fishing. It is a steal for them at $6 a day."

Resident fees are being eyed for an increase as well, although a more moderate one.

Resident deer licenses would increase to $25, and the conservation stamp fee may go up to $7.50 from the current $5. Residents may also have to pay a $3 application fee for every trophy and big game license issued through the lottery draw.

Based on 1999 license sales, the Game and Fish estimates the fee increases could generate about $2 million, the resident application fee may raise $320,000, and the stamp increase would net an additional $475,000.

A series of public meetings are scheduled to discuss the proposed fee changes: Lander, Jan. 10; Casper, Jan 13; Rock Springs, Jan. 19; Jackson, Jan. 20.