Utah’s wild bighorn sheep are some of the most iconic animals in the West. They live in some of the harshest and most beautiful places in our state — clinging to cliffs, surviving long winters, and representing the wild spirit of Utah. But their survival is now at risk.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources has announced changes to statewide hunting plans for mountain goats and bighorn sheep. That means new rules are being set right now for how many of these animals can be hunted. While trophy tags bring in money, the truth is that many herds are already struggling. Disease, shrinking habitat, and human pressure have left some bighorn populations dangerously low. Allowing too many permits could push them even closer to collapse.

These animals are not just “big game.” They are part of Utah’s natural heritage. Families drive hours to catch a glimpse of them in the wild. Kids grow up inspired by their strength and resilience. If overhunting continues while herds are still vulnerable, future generations of Utahns may never see them at all.

Once these animals disappear, we can’t bring them back. That’s what’s really at stake here. This isn’t just about hunting tags — it’s about whether Utah chooses quick money from a few permits or lasting protection for wildlife that belongs to all of us.

We call on the Utah Wildlife Board, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, and Governor Spencer Cox to put conservation first. That means limiting hunting permits for bighorn sheep and mountain goats until herds are stable and strong. It means prioritizing habitat protection, disease prevention, and recovery over short-term revenue.

Utah doesn’t have to choose between hunters and wildlife — but we do have to draw the line when species are at risk of vanishing. Protect our wild sheep before it’s too late.

Sign this petition if you agree that Utah’s bighorn sheep deserve protection from overhunting, so they can remain part of our state’s future.