Texas House Bill HB2854

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to an authorization to trap, transport, and transplant certain white-tailed deer between certain sites.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2854 is expected to enhance the management of white-tailed deer within Texas by allowing more systematic relocation efforts that can benefit wildlife conservation strategies. By permitting the transfer of deer between designated sites, the bill aims to support breeding programs while ensuring that the deer population remains stable and healthy. This could provide increased opportunities for hunters and landowners as they enhance their properties for recreational use and management of deer herds. The bill emphasizes the importance of regulated wildlife management in maintaining ecological balance.

Summary

House Bill 2854 proposes modifications to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code regarding the regulation of white-tailed deer. Specifically, the bill centers on permitting the trapping, transporting, and transplanting of certain white-tailed deer from defined Class I release sites to other similar sites. The intent behind this legislative measure is to provide flexibility for deer management practices, particularly for breeders and landowners seeking to optimize the health and population of deer in designated areas.

Contention

Some potential points of contention surrounding HB 2854 involve concerns from environmental and animal rights groups regarding the effectiveness and ethics of deer transplantation. Opponents may argue that relocating deer can disrupt local ecosystems and lead to disease management issues or unintended ecological consequences. Additionally, regulations around deer breeding and transportation could draw scrutiny concerning animal welfare and the protocols in place to ensure the wellbeing of the deer during and after the transplant process. As such, the debate will likely center on finding a balance between effective wildlife management and the ethical treatment of animals.