WILDLIFE DAMAGE ABATEMENT AND CLAIMS
Wild animals are an important part of our environment. They contribute to our enjoyment of outdoor recreational activities, and are major components of a healthy environment. Federal and State Governments are responsible for the management of wildlife and ensuring its future abundance. In some instances, however, this abundance has led to conflicts between human and wildlife interests.
Waukesha County has joined with other counties around the state who have contracted with the USDA-Wildlife Services to participate in the Wisconsin Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program. This program provides technical assistance and financial compensation for damage to agricultural crops caused by deer, bear, goose and turkey. Funding for the program comes from a $1.00 surcharge on most hunting licenses and the sale of deer bonus tags.
The primary emphasis of the program is wildlife damage abatement. Funds are available to pay up to 75% of the costs for measures designed to prevent crop damage such as fencing, repellents, and scare devices such as pyrotechnics and propane exploders. In some cases shooting permits are issued subject to local hunting restrictions. Landowners must allow public hunting but can control access. The compensation portion of the program will pay up to $15,000 per claimant per year for crop damage, after a $250.00 deductible. Landowners seeking compensation must follow recommended abatement measures and report the crop damage to the USDA-Wildlife Services office within 14 days of the first damage.
For additional information on the Wisconsin Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program, please contact the USDA-Wildlife Services office at 1-800-433-0663, call the Waukesha County Department of Parks and Land Use-Land Resources Division at(262) 896-8300, or check the links below.