Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt this week directed departments to implement recommendations presented by the diverse task force he formed to consider major issues regarding feral hogs, their destructive habits and potential to spread disease. The governor also called on the legislature to take action on the task force recommendations. Feral hogs are reported in over 20 of Missouri’s 114 counties and the population is estimated at 5,000 to 10,000.
Blunt issued an executive order to form the multi-agency Task Force on Feral Hogs. The 10-member task force represented public, state, local, private, conservation and farming interests. The group presented recommendations for an aggressive plan to deter the further development of feral hog populations in Missouri. Key components of the group’s final report include extensive education efforts, legislative changes to stiffen penalties and expanding enforcement, implementing disease protocol and enhancing funding available to address feral hog eradication in Missouri.
Source:
USAgNet, July 31, 2008