Program tracks wild boars and can provide resources for producers to remove animals
The Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corp. is taking over administration of the feral wild boar control program.
The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities has delivered the program for years, but in February told the province it was no longer a good fit, said Shawn Jaques, chief executive officer of crop insurance.
“It made sense for SCIC to look after it because we already have the wildlife damage compensation program, and predator prevention is part of that,” Jaques said.
Crop insurance delivers the program that compensates producers for crop damage caused by wildlife such as waterfowl, deer and elk and the predation program that compensates livestock producers for losses caused by coyotes and wolves.
Read Also
Agri-business and farms front and centre for Alberta’s Open Farm Days
Open Farm Days continues to enjoy success in its 14th year running, as Alberta farms and agri-businesses were showcased to increase awareness on how food gets to the dinner plate.
Jaques said producers who notice damage to their land or feed from the rooting behaviour typical of wild boars should contact their local crop insurance office.
“We would arrange for a predation specialist to come out there,” he said.
The control program involves tracking the boars and hunting them down.
Crop insurance hasn’t yet received any requests for help.
Jaques said the exact number of feral boars is unknown.
Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan have said as many as 70 percent of rural municipalities have reported sightings.
They have caused significant problems in the Moose Mountain Provincial Park area in the past.
He said SARM reported requests for help from five to 10 RMs a year.
The federal and provincial governments fund the control program through Growing Forward 2.
karen.briere@producer.com
