MULE DEER CONSERVATION PROJECT AT HARDWARE RANCH

Some men go their entire lives unaware of the difference they have made, but our friend Steve Sorensen can see firsthand that his hard work is making a difference for future generations. From chasing mountain lions up snowy hillsides and collaring sleeping bears in the high Uintah’s to chopping down problematic trees in the sweltering summer heat, Steve is always out working hard.

This past June, HUXWRX was privileged to watch Steve lead a group of 50 men into the woods to lop and scatter problematic Junipers trees. Armed with chainsaws, chaps and good attitudes, Steve led these men through the hills of Hardware Ranch on a mission to diminish the Juniper Trees responsible for sucking local seeps and creeks dry.

Years of wildfire suppression and logging bans have left room for the trees to run rampant. Areas that once had flowing creeks, steams, and seeps were left bone dry. Juniper trees are a part of the natural habitat but if left unregulated, especially in drought conditions, they can be pernicious. A large Juniper tree can absorb up to 75 gallons of water per day if available. Ten Juniper trees on a water source have the potential to cause 750 gallons of water loss per day!

On this lop and scatter trip, Steve, and his team of men were able to clear nearly two acres of dense forest. Revitalizing the growth of winter range that deer, elk, and moose populations depend on.

Steve is a very humble man. Most people will never understand the amount of work he has done to ensure future generations can enjoy the outdoors. In just 3 years, the once dry areas where the lop and scatter project have been implemented are now rippling with water. Local seeps now have water running up to 60 yards away. Soon, any evidence of dry seeps and creek beds will be washed away.

If you are in Utah and wish to give back visit the website below to see how you can help.
https://wildlife.utah.gov/hunting/dedicated-hunters/project-categories.html