Mountain Goat Populations are Declining
By: Donny Marterello, Carnivore/Special Species Section Manager

Historically, mountain goat abundance in Washington may have been as high as 10,000. However, goat populations have been declining for several years and now there are probably fewer than 4,000. As a result, WDFW has taken a conservative management approach and reduced the number of goat permits in recent years.

So what’s causing the decline in statewide goat levels? The long-term decline, even with a conservative harvest, suggests that mountain goat habitat conditions are deteriorating. Mountain goats prefer mid to high elevation habitats with steep, rocky cliffs, projecting pinnacles, ledges and an occasional talus slide. Historically, these open habitats were maintained through natural fires and other disturbances. However, given the fire suppression policy for most public lands in Washington, forests may be closing in on prime goat habitat. With less quality habitat, the land base just can’t support the number of goats it once did.

But why are there so few hunting permits, some goat populations are stable or increasing? In terms of the reduced goat permits in recent years, habitat factors are just one side of the equation. Practicing responsible management, WDFW recommends not hunting any wildlife population when critical data on population status and dynamics are lacking. And due to funding constraints, the Department is unable to survey every mountain goat population in the state. Recognizing the marginal status of goats statewide, the Department elected not to recommend recreational hunting opportunity in any area not surveyed. What’s the result of this decision? In some cases a sustainable goat population could allow for limited harvest opportunity, but that opportunity won’t be realized without adequate survey information.

So what’s being done to restore goat populations statewide? In the coming years, the Department hopes to gather more information on mountain goat status and population dynamics. We currently are pursuing funding sources to better survey goats and estimate statewide population status. Our goal is to restore goat populations to their historic levels and again provide quality aesthetic and recreation opportunities in Washington.

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