Conservation stamp costs have risen as of July 1st. The new price of the annual stamp will be $21.50 for residents and nonresidents. That is a 72% increase, from $12.50 up to $21.50. However, with the increased revenue the Wyoming Game and Fish Department says that they will be able to increase access for hunting and fishing.
Increasing hunting and fishing access was identified as one of the Departments’ top issues in the 2018 Game and Fish public outreach engagement process. Wyoming has a large amount of public land that is blocked by private land ownership. Accessing these public lands has become an important issue for most sportsmen and women.
“The increase in conservation stamp revenue will allow Game and Fish to secure long-term access for sportspeople.” – Rick King, chief of the wildlife division
The Wyoming Legislature supported the fee increase with the passage of HB0122. HB0122 will help pay for easements to difficult-to-access or inaccessible private, federal, and state lands for hunting and fishing. You can read our article about HB0122 by clicking here.
“This is about preserving and increasing our hunting opportunities for the hunting public — both residents and nonresidents.” – Rep. Cyrus Western of House District 51 in Sheridan County
85% of the revenue will go towards the above-mentioned access and easement process. The rest of the revenue from the conservation stamp will go to wildlife crossings, fish passages, and game fences.
Conservation stamps are valid for a year from the date of purchase. Likewise, most fishermen and hunters need to purchase a stamp to accompany their license. Stamps can be purchased online or at in-person locations. People can also purchase a lifetime conservation stamp for $185.50.
You can read more about the conservation stamp by clicking here.
So, what are your thoughts on the increased cost of the conservation stamp? Do you know of areas that the WGFD needs to try and get access to? Let us know in the comments!
