Feral hogs have become a major problem in Arkansas, causing damage to farms and land while carrying harmful diseases. In a recent report from Little Rock television station KATV, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) is offering incentives to landowners who trap these destructive animals to combat this issue.
KATV interviewed one such landowner, Jason Kocher (pictured above, right), of Stone County, who has been battling a feral hog problem on his property for years. Through consistent trapping, he and his team have removed over 250 hogs over the last three years, protecting their hay fields and pastures from their destructive behavior. Kocher described the dangers of the hogs’ digging, which can create deep holes that significantly threaten farmers and their equipment.
Recognizing the severity of the issue, the AGFC has allocated $1.2 million to support landowners. This program reimburses qualified individuals and cooperatives for 75% of the cost of a feral hog trap. These traps are equipped with cameras and a remotely controlled gate, allowing for efficient capture without the need for constant human presence.
Through this initiative, the AGFC hopes to encourage greater participation in eradication efforts and effectively control the feral hog population in Arkansas. This will not only protect agricultural land and livestock but also safeguard public health by reducing the risk of disease transmission.
Applications for reimbursement will open starting Jan. 2. For guidelines for a qualified landowner or cooperative as well as eligible traps, click here and look for the “Feral Hog Trapping” section in the Conservation Incentive Program Guide.
Click here to view the full story from KATV.
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