On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that it will spend $20 million in fiscal year 2014 to manage populations of feral hogs and test for diseases such as swine fever. The USDA says it will work cooperatively with states to try to get the invasive species under control. They are a prolific problem in the Southeast, and state wildlife agencies here will welcome the much-needed funding.
Over the last three decades, wild hogs have expanded from 17 to 39 states, causing damages estimated at up to $1.5 billion a year according to a March 27 article at Greenwire. According to the USDA, the hogs are able to carry and transmit up to 30 diseases and 37 different parasites, and they reproduce quickly. That said, as many of our Southern chefs can attest, the smaller ones make for some mighty fine dining.
Of the $20 million budgeted, $9.5 million will go toward state projects. Initial funding will be based on the extent of feral swine damage in each state, so those with the biggest problems will get more funding.
For further information visit Waller's Environmental Law Examiner Blog.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
