US: The state adopts a reduced subsistence hunting limit for Western Arctic caribou of 15 animals a year

Published 2024년 2월 2일

Tridge summary

In response to the declining Western Arctic Caribou Herd, the Alaska Board of Game has imposed new hunting restrictions. Subsistence hunters in Northwest Alaska and parts of the North Slope can now only hunt up to 15 animals a year, with only one being a cow, a significant reduction from the previous limit of five caribou a day. Nonresident hunters, previously allowed to hunt one bull per year, will now need to draw one of 300 permits to hunt in the Kotzebue area starting in 2025. The decision has sparked mixed reactions among locals, with some arguing for the prioritization of their subsistence rights.

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Original content

State game managers reduced bag limits for subsistence and nonresident hunters this week to preserve the declining Western Arctic Caribou Herd. The Alaska Board of Game concluded its meeting in Kotzebue on Monday, making decisions on several management proposals. Subsistence hunters living in Northwest Alaska and parts of the North Slope are now only allowed to hunt up to 15 animals a year, only one of which can be a cow. This is a considerable change from five caribou a day, and it goes into effect on state-managed lands July 1. “A reduction in cow harvest is the single most important thing we can do to help the Western Arctic Caribou Herd,” said Alex Hansen, Kotzebue-based wildlife biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. He applauded the efforts of residents and hunters to take the lead in the conservation effort. The decision was met with mixed responses. “It’s a good thing,” said Vern Cleveland Sr. of Noorvik. “It’s a good thing for our caribou coming through ...

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