Fresh Tracks Weekly - Point Schemes Disguise Tag Declines

[Big Fin]

Marcus and I did this video, knowing that when draw results come out from a lot of states people will have all kinds of ways to revamp the point schemes we deal with. Almost like point schemes somehow create larger herds, which results in more tags - NOT!

More animals in the hills goes a long ways towards improving draw odds. @DFS, thanks for the numbers you posted a while back. It got me thinking beyond just Montana. I went back to some of the tag numbers I've seen in other states for other species, and the track record was very similar. Other than antelope in Nevada, deer and pronghorn numbers have decreased across the west. Elk are the only bright spot, as a species. Colorado is one state that has shown positive results with sheep, goat, and moose, yet most other states follow a trend similar to Montana.

If point schemes were going to solve the problem, the vast array and complexity of point schemes would have rescued us by now. It still gets back to quality habitat, in large quantities - not sexy and not an easy problem to solve. But, we have no other choice.

Enjoy.

 

[wytex]

I've always seen PP schemes as a way for G&f agencies to make money when herds were low and license numbers drop. They sell PP to make up the diff.

 

[El Jason]

They sell PP to make up the diff.

And make people happy who feel they deserve a tag.

 

[ovis2]

As one who has eventually benefited, and paid for in time and money, across the points schemes, I think most of them are just superficial frosting for hunters to believe we'll eventually get that prized tag. Being somewhat of a statisical nerd, I have submitted numerous public comments to several western game departments, but alas the points go on. As mentioned, the various point schemes don't change the number of critters on the ground. Habitat preservation and development, as well as good scientific management, are the keys to good game populations. Then it becomes supply and demand. With the growth of social media and what I call checklist hunting, the strain on permit availability will only continue. Somewhat counter this rant, Wyoming's sheep and moose preference points large costs (and non-resident permit availability) seems to have actually started reducing the number of applications - and I am happy to say, after this latest go-round I don't need to donate my annual sheep money .

 

[Forkyfinder]

Colorado is one state that has shown positive results with sheep, goat, and moose, yet most other states follow a trend similar to Montana.

I would like to understand - what did they do?

I appreciate the commentary about our predecessors taking care of things - but the reality is that our problems are a lot different.

 

[MTTW]

Look at the last 20 years and project it out 20 more.

It works because a bunch of entitled old guys enjoy stealing from the next generation.

I read the other day that some people would eat shit just so others would have to smell their breath.

In other words they think they are winning only because others are losing.
I should get what I want because I have been wanting it longer. Where else does that work?