FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saskatchewan – October 8, 2025 — The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation (SWF) is calling on the Government of Saskatchewan to engage non-governmental organizations in meaningful consultation to develop and incorporate a comprehensive strategy as outlined in the Provincial Government’s own Elk Game Management Plan (below) that addresses the growing concerns of producers and conservationists across the province.
This call to action follows the recent announcement of an additional antlerless elk hunt in Wildlife Management Zones (WMZs) 1–55, scheduled for November 20–27, 2025. While the intent of this hunt is to help reduce elk populations it has created numerous additional concerns and frustration among licensed hunters.
In addition, this hunt overlaps with the regular white-tailed deer season, raising serious safety concerns, as two major big game seasons running concurrently increase the risk of accidents, and overwhelming impositions on landowners.
Between August 25, 2025, and January 14, 2026, elk hunting has been, or will be, permitted during all but 31 days across Saskatchewan.
Access remains the critical issue in effectively managing elk populations. Without improved access in problem zones, efforts to reduce elk numbers will continue to fall short.
The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation emphasizes that the Government of Saskatchewan’s leadership is essential to building a long-term, sustainable solution. A coordinated approach — involving producers, hunters, landowners, politicians and policymakers — is needed to balance wildlife populations in Saskatchewan in accordance with the Province’s Game Management Plan (below) and utilization of the Provincial Wildlife Advisory Committee. The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation is committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that future wildlife management decisions are informed, inclusive, and effective and promote mutually beneficial relationships between landowners and the hunting community.
For those concerned about the new elk season and its broader implications, the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation encourages you to reach out to your local Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). A full list of MLAs can be found below.
Provincial Game Management Plan
Darrell Crabbe
Executive Director
Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation