HF601

The bill presented, H.F. No., seeks to allocate funds for farmers who have faced damage to their livestock and crops due to wildlife. Specifically, it proposes:

1. An appropriation of $125,000 for the year 2025 to compensate farmers for livestock that have been killed or injured. Out of this amount, up to $5,000 can be used for expenses related to assessing the fair market value of the affected livestock. If there is additional federal funding received for these claims, the state funds may alternatively be used for non-lethal wildlife prevention methods.

2. Another $125,000 for the same fiscal year is allocated for compensation for crop damages. From this fund, up to $10,000 may be used for the investigation and resolution of these crop damage claims, and training associated with these activities. Furthermore, up to $40,000 is designated for grants to help protect stored crops from elk. If the volume of claims is very high, money can be transferred between the two funds to cover the excess in either program.

Both appropriations are single use and will be available until June 30, 2026. This legislation is aimed at providing financial relief to farmers impacted by wildlife and supporting the sustainable coexistence of agriculture and natural wildlife populations.