Most of the efforts will be focused on feeding deer. The feeding program is being organized to help ensure that deer herds that are recovering from drought in the two counties have every chance to rebuild.

"Relatively mild weather conditions and good fawn production this past year has left the deer herd in northern Utah in fairly good shape. We're definitely in a rebuilding mode," said Ron Hodson, Northern Region wildlife manager for the DWR.

Hodson also noted that biologists are seeing more bucks per 100 does than they've seen for some time.

Robert Hasenyager, supervisor of the DWR's Northern Region, said the recent snow storms were abnormal, if not record breaking, and that this winter's feeding program is being undertaken as a precautionary measure. "We don't want to lose the momentum we've achieved in bringing the deer herds back," he said.

"This much snow this fast has put us in a position that we feel we need to do something to help the deer survive," Hodson said.

He says the deer should do okay if the weather returns to a milder pattern. His greatest concern is that more heavy snowfall, combined with freezing temperatures, will put too much stress on the herd.

How you can help

Sportsmen groups have already contacted the DWR to help in the feeding effort, and they will play a critical role in carrying out the feeding program. Jodie Anderson, Northern Region volunteer coordinator, is organizing efforts to distribute feed.

The feeding program should begin by Jan. 15. Anyone interested in assisting with the effort is encouraged to call Anderson at (801) 791-8589.