01-06-2006, 03:46 PM
Well this one looks like it might turn into one of those "hot threads", but I for one tend to agree with Ken. First I dont think its fair to blame the state for not making up shortcomings just because because there is a budget surplus. The article says that between 35 - 40 % of their budget comes from the state, yet less that 20% of residents have licenses. Set aside a few glaring holes, I think the Utah DWR has done a great job over the last 10 - 15 years. I became a resident of Wyoming shortly after I graduated H.S. in 91', and back then Uthans were really jealous about the outdoor activites ithere, espically as far as hunting. In the last few years, I have become quite jealous of some of the animals, and some of the limited draw areas, my Utah resident friends have enjoyed.
And in alot of places the fishing has improved too. I am by no means a rich man, but in early January every year, I pay a over $200 to buy non-resident fishing and hunting licenses, and a season state parks pass, as well as a $20 FL Gorge pass and other stuff. And spread out over the course of days, weeks, and months. I think it's the best and cheapest entertainment one can find, especially if you factor in the value of the fish you eat which for me I would guess is at least 20-30 lbs per year. Heck, that pretty much pays for the license itself if you had to go buy that meat, which you can't because the farm raised fish they sell in the stores are junk.
I for one diddn't mind when my state raised all of it's license fees, and if Utahs fees go up a buck or two a year, I will happily continue to buy my licenses and do my part.
And that comes from a non-resident who has seen Utah's license fees increase nearly $30 in the last 3 years...
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And in alot of places the fishing has improved too. I am by no means a rich man, but in early January every year, I pay a over $200 to buy non-resident fishing and hunting licenses, and a season state parks pass, as well as a $20 FL Gorge pass and other stuff. And spread out over the course of days, weeks, and months. I think it's the best and cheapest entertainment one can find, especially if you factor in the value of the fish you eat which for me I would guess is at least 20-30 lbs per year. Heck, that pretty much pays for the license itself if you had to go buy that meat, which you can't because the farm raised fish they sell in the stores are junk.
I for one diddn't mind when my state raised all of it's license fees, and if Utahs fees go up a buck or two a year, I will happily continue to buy my licenses and do my part.
And that comes from a non-resident who has seen Utah's license fees increase nearly $30 in the last 3 years...
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