Rock Creek on Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area

Why are you fencing Rock Creek?

The 12 miles of streams and river on Hardware Ranch WMA are an oasis for wildlife. They also provide essential water to nearby habitats. These moisture-rich areas are easily damaged, especially by prolonged livestock grazing, motorized vehicles and trailers. The following photo shows how the Rock Creek area has been damaged by uncontrolled access.

Fencing this section of Rock Creek is part of an ongoing effort to protect the creek and its surrounding meadows. We began this project in May 2009 to address several activities at the WMA, including livestock grazing, all-season OHV traffic, and increased vehicle and trailer camping.

How do you know fencing will be effective?

In 1996, biologists from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources classified this portion of Rock Creek as 'severely degraded,' and part of it was fenced with a two-rail pole fence. We then added an intermediate strand of barbed wire to protect it from intense livestock pressure and vehicle access. In 2005, an independent biologist evaluated the area and indentified some positive trends resulting from the fence, including robust willow colonies and desirable stream structure.

What is your timeline on fencing Rock Creek?

In the spring of 2009, another portion of Rock Creek (adjacent to SR-101 on Hardware Ranch) was also fenced as part of a grazing agreement. Next spring, completing that fence via another grazing agreement will be a priority. At that point, all of Rock Creek on the Hardware Ranch WMA will be fenced.

Who is funding the fencing project?

The sales of hunting and fishing licenses generated funding for the current fencing. The funds were allocated as a habitat-enhancement project. Fencing is also a key component of the livestock-grazing program on the WMA. Some sections of the Rock Creek fence have been funded and completed as part of grazing agreements.

Will I still have access to Rock Creek?

Hunting, fishing and camping have always been part of Hardware Ranch WMA and they will continue. While motorized access to the riparian areas along Rock Creek will no longer be allowed, `walk-in', tent camping and horse access will continue in the area. Approximately one acre of vehicle and trailer camping will still be available within 600 feet of the new fenced area.

No camping or other access has yet been changed, but the gates will be installed by early fall. Administrative access will then include maintenance, education and outreach programs, and habitat-restoration activities.

If you would like to comment on the Hardware Ranch WMA, please use the comment form on the FAQ page.