New Tools for Addressing Depredation and Assessing Scope of Impact
Agricultural Issues
Ethan Gilliam
Assistant Professor/Sevier County Ag/NR Agent
Utah State University
Richfield
Abstract
Elk depredation issues among agricultural producers have long been a concern, but their impacts are becoming increasingly strenuous on agricultural economic outputs, compounding strain on relationships between producers and wildlife officials. This project primarily examines the long-term effects of concentrated spring grazing by elk on private pastures. Utilizing grazing data collected in 2025, we employed exclusion cages in two different study areas to assess recovery rates and biomass yield, highlighting implications of wildlife interactions on agricultural production. We also assessed the accuracy of different counting strategies of wildlife during depredation incidents.
In addition to this focus, we gathered qualitative insights regarding the impacts of elk depredation on hay production, specifically the damage to haystacks during late winter and early spring months. This exploration highlighted the potential economic losses faced by hay producers and strained relationships that may contribute to mental distress among stakeholders, with a possible correlation to the phenomenon known as the “winter blues.”
Preliminary results from our pasture study revealed a notable 48% difference in elk counting accuracy between thermal drones utilized at night and other methods such as spotlights and handheld thermal scopes, which could implicate future wildlife monitoring techniques. Furthermore, pastures that experienced elk grazing from February to May demonstrated an alarming 49% decrease in feed biomass compared to control areas that excluded elk. This substantial loss in pasture yield, even after accounting for irrigation and recovery time, underscores the economic risks producers face due to wildlife depredation.
This study represents a collaborative effort across disciplinary areas, involving wildlife officials, various extension departments, and local producers. As we continue this research, we seek to encourage ongoing conversations and collaboration with wildlife agencies and producers. Other states have expressed interest in replicating this study, further emphasizing the relevance of our findings. By addressing stakeholder feelings and connecting effective communication, we hope to develop management strategies that can mitigate the impacts of elk grazing on agricultural systems while promoting sustainable practices.
Authors: Ethan Gilliam
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Ethan Gilliam Assistant Professor/Sevier County Ag/NR Agent, Utah State University Extension, Utah, 84701