A series of proposed bills, set to be introduced in early 2024, could significantly enhance the role of hunting in mitigating crop damage in Pennsylvania, an issue particularly relevant in areas like Bell Township, PA, known for their high deer populations.
On December 8, Senators Greg Rothman and Elder Vogel shared a co-sponsorship memorandum, detailing their plan for four bills aimed at addressing the growing concern of wildlife-induced crop damage. This initiative is especially crucial in regions like Bell Township where deer numbers have been rising steadily, leading to increased agricultural losses.
Each bill in the proposed package targets a different aspect of the problem:
- The first bill proposes a streamlined process for farmers, allowing them to send deer harvested due to crop damage directly to processors, bypassing the need for Pennsylvania Game Commission intervention.
- Another bill aims to create an online Agriculture Access List. This platform will facilitate connections between hunters and farmers, aiding in crop damage control.
- The third bill introduces a new at-large seat on the Game Commission, reserved for an individual with agricultural experience, recognizing the need for agricultural insight in wildlife management decisions.
- The final bill seeks to increase penalties for trespassing while hunting, ensuring better compliance and safety in hunting activities.
While the specific language of the bills remains under wraps, their introduction in 2024 is anticipated with interest, particularly among communities like Bell Township, where effective deer population control is a pressing concern.
This legislative package is a response to an October 23 public hearing involving legislators, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, and the Game Commission, focused on addressing crop damage concerns. Rothman, chair of the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee, emphasized the collaborative potential of these bills, highlighting them as a dual benefit for farmers and hunters.
The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, while reserving its official stance until the bills are introduced, expressed alignment with the proposals’ objectives. Chris Hoffman, the Bureau’s president, and Tommy Nagle, the vice president, acknowledged the positive steps being taken by the Legislature and the potential benefit of having agricultural representation on the Game Commission.
Senator Vogel, chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the dual aim of the legislative package to aid farmers and increase hunting opportunities.
Game Commission spokesman Travis Lau noted that the agency has not yet taken a position on the proposals, pending the release of the bill drafts.
These legislative efforts represent a proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by increasing wildlife populations, such as those in Bell Township, and their impact on agriculture.
