1. A. In the primary or special management zones, the department may identify unique ranches of any size as a special management ranch.

2. B. A department approved conservation plan will be required and developed in conjunction with the landowner and will include habitat improvement, population management, and harvest management goals as a minimum.

   1. (1) Alternative season dates, bag limits, sporting arm types, and additional authorizations may be considered for these ranches.

   2. (2) Authorizations issued pursuant to these management plans:

      1. (a) Shall be ranch only and not transferrable to other private lands;
      2. (b) Will be considered based on documented habitat improvements or maintenance of habitat enhancement projects or existing habitat quality;
      3. (c) May be as a result of working directly with the department on special projects related to population management or research needs in the GMU; and
      4. (d) Shall be allocated to assure elk management goals as stated in 19.31.14 NMAC are sustainable and appropriate within the GMU and on the participating ranch.
   3. (3) The conservation plan must be updated and submitted by January 5 on an annual basis to be approved by the department.

[19.30.5.12 NMAC - Rp, 19.30.5.11 NMAC, 4-1-2019]