HB 3657
Directs the State Department of Agriculture to establish a wildlife damage prevention and compensation pilot program.
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Support
100%
Oppose
0%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill directs the Oregon State Department of Agriculture to establish a pilot program to help farmers and ranchers compensate for damage caused by wildlife. The program will create a dedicated fund and provide financial assistance for damage prevention and compensation. It will run for a limited time (until January 2, 2030) and require regular reporting to the legislature. The program will focus on 10 pilot areas east and west of the Cascade Mountains, considering factors like wildlife damage history and agricultural diversity.
Key provisions
- Establishes a Wildlife Damage Prevention and Compensation Fund.
- Directs the State Department of Agriculture to create and implement a pilot program.
- Defines eligible damage and eligible persons for compensation.
- Specifies criteria for selecting pilot program areas, considering factors like wildlife impact and agricultural diversity.
- Outlines a process for enrolling in and renewing participation in the pilot program.
- Details a claims process, including requirements for evidence of damage and damage assessment.
- Establishes methods for determining compensation amounts.
- Requires reporting to the legislature on the program's effectiveness and recommendations for a permanent program.
Who is affected
- Farmers
- Ranchers
- State Department of Agriculture
- State Department of Fish and Wildlife
- Agricultural Producers
Notable changes
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsors
Cosponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of House Bill 3657 express strong backing for the legislation, citing significant economic losses suffered by private landowners in Oregon due to wildlife damage. Testimony highlights concerns about crop damage and livestock fence destruction caused by large herds of elk, particularly in Yamhill County. Proponents argue that the bill addresses a pressing issue, providing financial relief to farmers and ranchers affected by wildlife damage through a pilot program established within the State Department of Agriculture. Many supporters believe this initiative will aid in monitoring future issues, gather information on existing damage, and establish compensation for damages, ultimately mitigating the impact of wildlife on rural properties in Oregon.
Source: Testimony Summaries
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