S1012 Depredating Wildlife Appeals Board

STATUS : ADVANCED TO THE SENATE FLOOR, ANTICIPATED HEARING WEEK OF 2/24.

This bill would create an appeals board comprised of 3 experts for reconsideration of determination by federal investigator. Findings of the appeals board would apply to compensation eligibility, as well as aid in statistics related to wildlife species control in the state. You can read full bill text HERE.

Background: Depredating wildlife incidents continue to rise across the state of Idaho. When producers incur a loss of livestock due to depredating wildlife, a final determination is dependent on inspection by APHIS- Wildlife Services, in order for the producer to be eligible for compensation funding. In its current form, once an inspector makes a final determination, even if ample evidence supports otherwise, there is no recourse for a producer to seek additional expert opinion and gain the confirmation status necessary to eligibility for compensation. Additionally, these depredation claims are not statistically reported unless listed as confirmed, which may alter the wildlife control efforts in an area.

While wolves are a delisted species and have an active management plan (set in place by the Idaho Department of Fish & Game), grizzly bears are still a protected species even though delisting criteria has been met. According to the US Fish & Wildlife Service Grizzly Bear Recovery Program, there are ample studies indicating grizzly bear populations have recovered and are located across the lower 48 with most found in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE), Northern Idaho & Pacific Northwestern states.

Why is this important to cattle producers in Idaho?

Conflicts between apex predators, primarily grizzly bears and wolves but not excluding mountain lions and black bears, and livestock are on the rise. Many cattle producers, predominantly in relative proximity to the GYE, continue to see loss of animals and income due to the predatory nature of grizzly bears. While compensation for such loss has been made available recently, the single authority of determination for confirmation lies with only one entity at this time.

Does ICA support this proposed bill?

Yes. ICA has member policy that supports seeking funding from federal and state sources to fund a robust trapping program, range riders to deter conflict and provide payments to producers for losses. There is additional policy that supports working with ISDA, Wildlife Services, OSC and Fish & Game in a collaborative effort surrounding wildlife management.

How do I take action?

You can participate in one of the below actions to have an impact as an individual. ICA will continue to submit comments on issues as a representative of its members, but this is a quick and easy way to submit comments as an individual.