Wild boar. (Photo: Government of Alberta)

By Justin Goulet/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Province providing incentive to control wild boar

Apr 6, 2022 | 9:14 AM

EDMONTON – The province has developed a new program to control wild boar.

The Wild Boar Control Program is a new coordinated approach that includes an expanded trapping and control initiative, compensation for farmers and two separate bounty programs – one for landowners and trappers, and another one for hunters.

Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development Nate Horner said, “wild boar at large are a threat to our animals and environment, as well as a vector for diseases like African swine fever.”

“We are taking action to get rid of this menace and help those affected by it before it gets worse.”

The expanded trapping and control program involves active surveillance in several counties and more active traps across Alberta. Additionally, wild boar damage is now included in the Wildlife Damage Compensation Program administered by the Agriculture Financial Services Corporation.

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A modified remuneration program will also be implemented for landowners and government-approved trappers, subject to agreements with participating counties.

The province will be implementing a one-year bounty pilot program for hunters. As their expiry dates near, both programs will be evaluated for effectiveness and next steps will be determined.

Thus far, the County of Stettler and the Municipal District of Peace have signed on to both remuneration programs. If you see a wild boar or signs of their activity, email af.wildboard@gov.ab.ca or call 310-FARM (3276) to report it.

QUICK FACTS

• The Whole Sounder Trapping Incentive Program started on April 1 and is on until March 31, 2024. Government-approved trappers will be compensated $75 per set of ears per sounder, encouraging the elimination of entire sounders.
• Landowners who work with approved trappers are eligible for $75 per set of ears.
• The Wild Board at-Large Ear Bounty program began April 1 and runs until March 31, 2023. Hunters who turn in wild boar ears will receive $75 per set.
• Wild boar at large have been documented in 28 rural municipalities. They are listed as pests under Alberta’s Pest and Nuisance Control Regulation. The province says they can damage crops and property, endanger livestock and people, spread disease and negatively alter the ecosystem.