Elk populations are chronically over objective in most hunting districts around the state. The 2020 Elk Counts put statewide population around 170,000 animals. Populations are over objective in 77 of the 105 districts counted. The statewide elk population has increased by about 25% since the inception of the current Elk Management Plan in 2004.
The chart below shows how close to objective different districts are around the state. Those districts that are furthest from objective levels are the districts where the Commission has imposed a limited permit draw.