RAC backs DWR rule implementing WMA access options required by HB30

The RAC approved a Division of Wildlife Resources rule to implement House Bill 30's Wildlife Management Area (WMA) access requirements. Under the new rule, visitors must either hold a valid hunting, fishing or combo license or obtain a free digital access permit that requires watching an educational video and acknowledging limited access conditions; the rule allows residents to donate to WMAs at purchase.

DWR told the RAC the law rolls out over three years and initially applies to WMAs in class‑one and class‑two counties; exemptions include traveling through a WMA on a highway, retrieving livestock and recognized property rights. A DWR staffer said those traveling on designated highways through a WMA are exempt and landowners with existing easements retain access rights.

RAC members sought clarifications about which roads or seasonal closures require a permit and whether nonresident digital permits would differ; DWR staff said residency and fee details would be specified in the fee schedule and that the digital permit option is intended to address non‑traditional WMA use while providing education about WMA purpose.

RAC vote: Motion to pass the WMA access rule carried 7–1.

Next steps: DWR will publish final implementing language and clarify fee/residency handling in the fee schedule and public guidance.