While scouting for Nevada Big Game, it’s not uncommon to come upon a “Nevada Guzzler”, a water structure strategically placed in the Nevada terrain to sustain all types of wildlife.    

 

 

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This year, it’s more important than ever to be aware of the man-made guzzlers  Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) is asking for help from hunters or others who come upon guzzlers that may be damaged, vandalized, or needing repair.

 

 

 

By state law (SB134), all guzzlers must have a sign that provides a contact number for reporting to NDOW any type of disrepair, a hunter will have the opportunity to report the guzzler so repair can occur as soon as possible.

 

 

 

Why is reporting so important?

 

 

 

The severity of Nevada drought makes the man-made water guzzlers an absolute necessity for the health and survival of several species of Nevada wildlife.  Approximately 1290 small guzzlers provide water for chukar, sage grouse, and quail; an approximate 400 big guzzlers are water sources for Nevada big game.  The disrepair of even one guzzler could have implications for the health of a number of wildlife species.

 

 

 

Nevada guzzlers, also known as wildlife “water developments” were originally placed in the state in the mid 1950’s.  Strategically located in all ranges and counties within Nevada, the guzzlers are maintained by NDOW and other government agencies, as well as a number of sportsmen and women volunteers.  According to NDOW, approximately 300-600 guzzlers require routine maintenance across the state each year.  The maintenance schedule is significant, as the guzzlers are located in remote areas and challenging terrain.

 

 

 

That’s why NDOW needs help from Nevada hunters.  If you happen to be out scouting your hunting unit, report any guzzler that needs attention.  If you are unfamiliar with how the guzzler should appear, contact NDOW for specific examples of .

 

 

And importantly, maintain the highest hunter and wildlife ethic by NOT DISTURBING any species that you may come upon drinking the guzzlers.

 

 

The guzzler may be the primary source of water for some Nevada wildlife species this summer,  so allow the game species the chance to survive.