OutdoorNebraska

52 2019 Annual Report • Economic Resources A C L O S E R L O O K A T P E R M I T S In review of the net change of permit sales from 2018 to 2019, the data indicates an overall decline in the sales of annual permits. However, the three-year permit sales increased, as well as the senior hunt/fish/fur combination. Permit sales often fluctuate from year to year and there are many factors that may cause this. Fur Harvest Permits The increase in fur harvest permits sold is reflective of the prices being paid for pelts. In addition, the veteran and senior permits include the fur harvest permit. Senior Hunt/Fish/Fur Combo The rise in sales reflects an increase of aging baby boomer population. The annual fee of $5 for hunting, fishing and fur harvest privileges, which also includes all stamps, makes this permit a prime permit for individuals age 69 or older. Big Game Permits Big game permits include deer, antelope, turkey and elk permits. Applications for deer, antelope and elk were all up in 2019. Part of the increase is reflective of 2019 being the first year that forfeited permits (from the draw) were offered as buy permits. In addition, due to deer crop depredation issues, late resident antlerless seasons have been extended in the Frenchman West and Loup East Season Choice Areas to Jan. 31, 2020. This change also allowed the extension of landowner and youth for those units. Fish and Park Entry Permits Fish and park entry permits are largely driven by the spring weather. The spring of 2019 was unprecedented. There were eight consecutive weekends that had rain and/or snow leading to record flooding issues across the state. Additionally, March and April were colder than normal. The cooler temperatures and access issues caused by the flooding no doubt contributed significantly to the decrease in both fish and park entry permit sales. Three-Year Permit The increase in the resident and nonresident hunt/fish/combo permits is likely due to the cost savings and convenience over the annual permit price. A permit holder can save 20 to 25% by purchasing the three- and five-year permits. Hunt Permits These permits represent small game and waterfowl hunters. Part of the decline may be recognized due to the shift to purchase three- and five-year permits as well as the senior permit. Other factors may include the decline in the pheasant population.

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