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House approves bill to let wildlife managers respond faster and add depredation tools for wild-turkey problems
Summary
First substitute H.B. 342 passed 60-8 after an amendment removing the word 'substantially' from a damage threshold. The bill requires the Division of Wildlife Resources to respond to complaints within 48 hours, enables depredation permits and authorizes consideration of a second turkey hunt to manage growing flocks that damage private property.
Representative Menlove presented first substitute H.B. 342 as a compromise to address growing wild-turkey populations that have migrated into residential areas and damaged private property. He said the Division of Wildlife Resources would be required to respond to complaints within 48 hours and the wildlife board could add another turkey hunt to manage populations.
During floor debate Representative Ivory moved an amendment to delete the word "substantially" from the damage threshold so property owners would not face an uncertain subjective standard when applying for relief; the body adopted that amendment. Members described local experiences of large flocks — Representative Freuer said some areas now host flocks of 50 to 200 birds — and urged that depredation permits, second hunts and relocation be tools available to DWR.
Supporters argued trapping and hazing alone were insufficient and that hunting and depredation permitting were effective management strategies. Representative Draxler said the second season would help the division target problem areas while avoiding harm to areas where Turkey populations are still being built.
The House passed the amended bill 60-8. The bill will be sent to the Senate for further consideration.
