Kelley: Holding Conservation Department To Task For Elk Reintroduction

Despite intense public opposition, the Missouri Department of Conservation continues to move forward with plans to introduce elk into the state. Many agricultural businesses have expressed concern because of the possibility of disease and damage the animals could cause. Elk can reach weights of several hundred pounds and cause damage to crops, fences, and vehicles. They also can carry diseases which may be transferred to cattle and other livestock.

The House Crime Prevention and Public Safety Committee held a hearing on a bill [HB115] which would hold the Department of Conservation responsible for damage caused by the elk. If the bill were to pass, the department could be required to pay for damage caused to crops, real estate, property, and vehicles. Any losses caused by disease spreading to livestock would also be the responsibility of the department. Under the bill, it would also be permissible to kill elk which are causing damage to property.

There appears to be support among legislators for the bill. Naturally, the department was opposed to the bill and testified in opposition. Requiring financial compensation from the department for damage caused by wildlife is not a new concept. In the 1990’s a bill was introduced which would have forced the department to pay either $500 or the insured’s deductible in the case of a deer/vehicle accident. The bill received considerable debate but did not pass. The issue had faded from view for several years before being revived with the elk restoration plan.

The House passed and sent to the Senate a bill [HB209] which would help protect farmers and ranchers from losing their livelihood as a result of nuisance lawsuits. A trend has been developing as people move to the country; farmers are being sued for conducting basic, accepted agricultural practices. Some of these include machinery noise, dust, odor, and burning of crop residue.

Most farmers and ranchers are not only good stewards of the land, but also good neighbors. Whether it is clearing a neighbor’s driveway of snow or helping fix a fence, farmers have a well earned reputation of trying to help others. Although most of them were in the area first, often for generations, they attempt to minimize any inconveniences to their new neighbors. Having a family farm tied up in court over a nuisance lawsuit is not something we need in Missouri.

Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service.