Coyote trappers may get a week to check traps

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Wildlife Board will decide whether to allow trappers up to a week to check coyote traps.

The board is expected to vote on the proposal Tuesday.

Currently, trappers must check their leg traps for coyotes every 48 hours and lethal traps every 96 hours. The proposal would allow trappers a week to check traps.

Supporters of the proposal say it is difficult for trappers to check traps every two days because of their often remote location. Opponents say a week is inhumane and can lead to excessive suffering or death by starvation or thirst.

The board will also vote on increasing bear hunt permits while placing restrictions on the use of hounds by hunters.