Hunting of sandhill cranes, programs related to sandhill crane damage, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)
The bill also introduces a reimbursement program for agricultural producers who purchase seed treatments designed to deter sandhill cranes from consuming corn seed. Eligible applicants can claim reimbursements covering up to 50% of the costs for these treatments, with a cap of $6,250 per applicant per planting season. The Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is tasked with administrating this program, which is expected to alleviate some economic burdens on farmers affected by wildlife.
Senate Bill 112 addresses the management and hunting of sandhill cranes in Wisconsin. It sets forth a framework for the authorization of sandhill crane hunting contingent upon approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The bill permits the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to establish a hunting season, regulate the number of hunters, and enforce hunting permits. The primary goal of the legislation is to balance wildlife management with the needs of agricultural producers, who often face damage to corn crops from these birds.
Notably, there are concerns surrounding the potential impact on the sandhill crane population, particularly regarding the hunting of breeding pairs. The bill directs the DNR to implement measures that will minimize the risk of disproportionately hunting breeding cranes to ensure population stability. Testimony and discussions indicate there may be opposition from environmental groups who fear that hunting could disrupt ecological balances.
The bill outlines a comprehensive approach, including a sandhill crane hunter education program that requires prospective hunters to complete training about crane identification, hunting regulations, and conservation. Furthermore, the legislation proposes increases in hunting fees and establishes a revenue-sharing framework to support both crop damage claims and crane conservation efforts.
Following its introduction, the bill is scheduled for review by the appropriate legislative committees before it can become law, pending favorable votes and necessary approvals from federal authorities regarding hunting regulations.