OR Elk Unit SANTIAM — Santiam

# Santiam Unit (OR) — Tactical Analysis ## Terrain & Access Elevation spans 11–10,169 ft across 2.1M acres with 66% public land and 14% wilderness. This is mid-elevation Cascade terrain typical of central Oregon's mixed conifer country. Relatively good public access for a large unit, though 14% wilderness will concentrate hunting pressure on accessible drainages. ## Herd Quality & Population Bull:cow ratio is **18:100 (2025)**, slightly above the recent 5-year average of ~13:100. This remains a **young, cow-heavy population** — not ideal for trophy hunting. Population quality index is "Good" in 2025 but historically "Average" (2021–2024). The herd is rebuilding...