Rep. Mike Hanna (D-Clinton/Centre) has re-introduced legislation that would increase deterrent fencing for wild animals and establish an elk damage compensation fund.

House Bill 1078 would increase the funding for and number of deterrent fences for deer, bear and elk and establish an Elk Damage Fund to reimburse people for property damages caused by elk. The Department of Agriculture and the Game Commission would be responsible for implementation of the program.

Under current law, there are regulations and assistance for deterrent fencing, but there are no specific regulatory standards for the elk deterrent project or a specific fund allocated to pay for it.

“This legislation is needed because of the substantial crop damage caused by elk in parts of the state,” Rep. Hanna said. “It’s been very frustrating for farmers and other landowners who have had to cope with the damage to their property and the financial losses that have resulted.

“The fencing would prevent the elk from destroying crops and prevent farmers from taking the matter into their own hands and shooting the elk. It would also greatly reduce the number of deer, bear and elk crossing roadways, where they can be a major safety hazard to drivers.”

Rep. Hanna introduced the bill during the previous legislative session. It is currently under consideration in the House Game and Fisheries Committee.

4/27/2007