News
Amsden, Bud Love, and Ed O. Taylor WHMAs now open

The Amsden, Bud Love, and Ed O. Taylor Wildlife Habitat Management Areas opened on May 15, at 8 a.m.
WHMA Kerns and Ellis remain closed to human presence until 8 a.m. on June 1.
While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Wyoming Game and Fish Public Information Specialist Christina Schmidt said the practice of protecting these locations for wildlife stretches back decades.
C. Schmidt
During the winter months, access to these areas for any reason is prohibited until the opening days and times. Anyone found violating the closures can be cited by the Game and Fish.
When open, the public uses these areas for recreation such as hiking and bird watching, often with hopes to view some of the region’s big game animals. According to Schmidt, she has seen moose, elk, deer and even bears in the WHMAs. Recreationists are asked to always give plenty of distance to and avoid stressing any big game animals they may encounter.
The public can take any naturally shed antlers they may find on WHMAs, in fact, Schmidt said there is usually a line of folks at the gate during opening days. But, there are some caveats that must be kept in mind during the hunt for antlers.
C. Schmidt
When they open, remember that motorized traffic is only allowed on established roads. This rule includes e-bikes, which are considered motorized.
There may be temporary road closures in place to prevent resource damage, particularly if the region receives rain in the coming days that may impact roads.
WHMA rules and regulation are covered in Chapter 23, set by the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission. Learn much more and find interactive maps of these areas, by clicking here.
