The Bureau of Land Management Vernal Field Office has authorized the installation of big game water structures on BLM administered lands within the DWR-designated Diamond Mountain Hunting Unit in Uintah County. Five guzzlers are approved to be built for big game use, each consisting of an 1,800 gallon tank with a 16’ by 40’ metal water catchment apron. The project information on the BLM National NEPA Register explains that “the proposed project will affect mule deer and elk habitat and distribution in the hunting unit. Approximately 0.2 acre of habitat will be disturbed through guzzler construction, but the increased free water availability will enhance the surrounding big game habitat and shift big game range use away from private lands and increase use on public lands. This shift in range use will lower potential negative wildlife impacts to private lands and increase public land hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities for the public.” The decision approving the proposed action was signed March 3, 2026.
