Southwest Region: Increase river otter harvest quota
Proposal
Increase the river otter harvest quota from 25 to 35 in the Southwest Region.
Justification
With a strong interest in river otters from a variety of user groups, the Department conducted statewide otter surveys in 2023 and 2024 to improve our understanding of the population and to inform future management efforts. Survey results suggested that the river otter population was well represented statewide, and that biologically, ample opportunity exists to increase harvest in the Southwest Region. This proposal would provide additional harvest opportunity while maintaining stable otter populations in the region.
The public comment period runs through 6 p.m. MST, December 7, 2025.
After reviewing feedback and considering agency goals, season recommendations will be presented to the Commission for their consideration at their January 2026 meeting.
Proposal
Increase the river otter harvest quota from 25 to 35 in the Southwest Region.
Justification
With a strong interest in river otters from a variety of user groups, the Department conducted statewide otter surveys in 2023 and 2024 to improve our understanding of the population and to inform future management efforts. Survey results suggested that the river otter population was well represented statewide, and that biologically, ample opportunity exists to increase harvest in the Southwest Region. This proposal would provide additional harvest opportunity while maintaining stable otter populations in the region.
The public comment period runs through 6 p.m. MST, December 7, 2025.
After reviewing feedback and considering agency goals, season recommendations will be presented to the Commission for their consideration at their January 2026 meeting.