Utah Hunters Helping Condors Program Offers Lead-free Ammo

Utah Hunters Helping Condors Program Offers Lead-free Ammo To Some Hunters

Utah's Hunters Helping Condors program is trying to reduce lead ammo use in hunting units where California Condors live. To do this, the state Division of Wildlife is offering hunters a coupon towards lead-free ammo and a prize drawing. Let's check out the specifics of this program.

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The California Condor is an endangered species, with around 560 birds in the wild. The leading cause of death for these birds is, surprisingly, lead poisoning. Condors are scavengers and they eat a lot of lead in the remains of other animals that have been shot.

Utah's effort to reduce lead exposure for the condors is two-pronged. First, hunters in the Zion Unit can get a coupon for $50 to redeem for lead-free ammo at select retailers. If you're hunting in that unit and want to take advantage of the coupon be sure to go to the state's website to read all the rules and restrictions.

The other opportunity is a drawing for hunters using lead-free ammo. Hunters need to stop at one of the check stations and show the staff a box of lead-free ammo in a caliber matching their rifle. There is also an option to bring in the gut pile of an animal shot with lead ammo, but that is going to be a very messy and smelly way to participate.

From Utah DNR:

All hunters holding Zion Unit permits are eligible to receive a coupon for free non-lead ammunition from an approved vendor listed below (up to $50 value). These will be mailed to you in time to redeem them for your hunt. Be sure to watch your mailbox! You will also receive some emails from us explaining the Hunters Helping Condors program and encouraging you to participate.

Hunters who have landowner or mitigation permits for the Zion Unit can claim their coupons at one of the DWR's Southern Region offices (in Cedar City or Quail Creek Reservoir). Anyone hunting in the Zion Unit with a General Season Any Bull Elk tag may also obtain a coupon at one of these offices.