This week we share how Utah is in a cougar debate tied to declining deer herds. We have fun with Real versus AI-generated stories. Plus how there is value in FFA and 4H, exploring key issues shaping our future youth. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka ‘BEC’ and Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News!

Utah Cougar Cull Sparks Tension as State Studies Mule Deer Declines Utah Cougar Cull Sparks Tension with Hunters & Houndsmen as State Studies Deer Declines

Utah wildlife managers have launched a three-year study that involves culling mountain lions in six game management units to see whether reducing cougar numbers will help struggling mule deer herds. While the goal is more deer on the landscape, many of Utah’s houndsmen say the plan puts their dogs, their livelihoods, and the future of lion hunting at risk.

State biologists say cougar predation is exceeding sustainable levels in parts of Utah, with some units seeing more than eight percent—and in some cases double-digit—deer losses to lions. The study focuses on the Boulder, Monroe, Stansbury, Pine Valley, Wasatch East, and Zion units, where state-run trapping efforts are now being added on top of already legal year-round lion hunting.

That’s where the concern comes in for houndsmen and from hunters. The Utah Houndsmen Association opposes the study, warning that state-set traps and snares create dangerous conditions for hounds and discourage outfitters from turning dogs loose. Houndsmen are asking the state to release trap location maps so they can hunt safely and continue doing the hands-on, ethical predator management they’ve provided for generations.

Supporters of the study, including several major conservation groups, say the data is needed. Mule deer have been collared across the study units, and early observations show poor body condition in some animals. Funding for the research is coming from sportsmen-driven organizations, and some groups are taking a wait-and-see approach before judging the results.

Critics of predator management argue that habitat loss and winter severity are the real problems behind deer declines. But state officials point out that while habitat issues affect much of Utah, roughly 30 percent of the state appears to be dealing with a true predator-driven, top-down problem—something the legislature has directed wildlife managers to address.

For houndsmen, the bigger issue may be perception. At a time when lion hunting faces pressure across the West, they worry this study could hand ammunition to anti-hunting groups and further threaten a tradition built around trained dogs, fair chase, and hands-on conservation.

The debate puts Utah’s houndsmen squarely in the middle—supporting healthy deer herds and sound science, while fighting to protect their dogs, their way of life, and the future of cougar hunting.

Reference: https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/utah-culling-cougars-new-study

True Stories vs. AI-Generated Stories Why Authentic Experience Still Matters

FUN stories that MANY you will be surprised to learn are actually true! Take a listen to find out if you can guess which are!

Why To Support FFA & 4-H

Supporting FFA and 4-H helps young people develop skills for leadership, communication, and personal growth. These organizations also help youth learn about agriculture and prepare for careers in the field.

Benefits of FFA and 4-H

Leadership: Learn how to take responsibility, set goals, and make decisions
Communication: Build strong communication skills
Resilience: Learn how to bounce back from challenges
Professional development: Learn skills that help prepare for college and careers
Character: Develop positive character traits like trustworthiness, respect, and responsibility
Self-esteem: Increase self-esteem and confidence
Agriculture knowledge: Learn how to grow food, raise animals, and fix things

Why support these organizations?

To help young people become leaders in their communities
To help young people learn about agriculture and careers in the field
To help young people develop life skills that will benefit them throughout their lives
To help young people learn how to care for and show animals, animal husbandry

OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS

We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to BendRadioShow@gmail.com. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates!

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WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS

Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC’ Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation.

With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God’s Country and life on the land.

United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They’re here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day.

To learn more about Tigger & BEC’s journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com.

https://tiggerandbec.com/