Agricultural News
Oklahoma Landowners Can Reduce Hog Hunting Liability
Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:35:55 CST
Feral swine cause problems for landowners in every part of Oklahoma. Recently, a Pontotoc County rancher found hogs rooting up his pasture. In western Oklahoma, hogs destroyed 20 round bales of hay valued at $1,600 in Dewey County and rooted up a hayfield in Beckham County. A Jackson County landowner, in the southern part of the state, also discovered round bales of hay that were torn up by hogs.
Few animals are as destructive as feral swine which have been described as a scourge by Oklahoma State Veterinarian Dr. Rod Hall.
Help is at hand with an online Feral Swine Directory developed by the Oklahoma Dept. of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF). Contact information for more than 500 hunters/trappers can be found under "Directories" at the ODAFF website. The directory helps hunters and trappers who are willing to provide feral swine control connect with landowners who want their help.
An application form for landowners with feral swine problems can be downloaded by clicking here. Completed forms should be mailed to Oklahoma Feral Swine Directory at the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry, 2800 N Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105.
An interactive map of landowners is on the agency website. Landowners are grouped by county but the exact location of their property is not revealed. They are in control of accepting or declining offers of assistance from hunters/trappers.
TIPS TO REDUCE LIABILITY
Despite the economic losses due to feral swine, landowners may have concerns about liability issues that could arise from inviting hunters and trappers to eradicate feral hogs on their property. They may not be aware that the Oklahoma legislature enacted laws that limit the liability of landowners when people are invited onto their land for recreational purposes.
It is still important to be clear about your expectations for guests' activities and behavior. A written release can provide an important layer of protection. Consider having hunters sign a written release covering the type of activities that will take place. Please consult an attorney for help in preparing written releases.
Common sense precautions like these will contribute to an enjoyable hunting experience while managing the landowner's risk. A summary of statutes pertaining to landowner liability is available on ODAFF's feral swine page.
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