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Committee hears bill to limit aircraft-based locating and same-day hunting; includes agricultural exception for herding elk
Summary
Senate Bill 106 would strengthen restrictions on aircraft and unmanned aircraft use to locate and hunt game, add enforcement language and a same-day hunting prohibition, and carve an exception for agricultural herding of elk; proponents said the bill protects fair chase and landowners, while enforcement and drafting details were discussed.
Senate Bill 106 drew a lengthy hearing in the House Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committee, where supporters from ranching, hunting and conservation groups urged new restrictions on aircraft- and drone-assisted locating and hunting, and the sponsor included a narrowly drawn exception so agricultural operators can use aircraft to herd elk off pastures.
Sponsor Senator Logie opened the hearing saying the bill responds to complaints about aircraft and helicopter operators using flight to locate, bunch or harass elk and then land where they do not have permission to hunt. He also said some agricultural operations want the ability to use aircraft or drones to herd elk off irrigated hay fields or pastures to reduce crop losses.
Proponents from a multi-stakeholder “Devil’s Kitchen Management Team” described…
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