Measure To Reduce Feral Hog Population Headed To OK Governor

A bill aimed at reducing Oklahoma’s feral hog population just passed the Oklahoma Senate and is headed to the Governor.

Senate Bill 1142 allows the hunting of feral hogs, day or night, if the hunter has permission from the landowner. The bill makes a license no longer required.

“This legislation gives Oklahomans more options to combat the rapidly growing feral hog population,” said Representative Sean Roberts, who sponsored the bill with Senator Nathan Dahm.

5/20/2015 Related Story: Running Wild: Feral Hog Problem Growing In Oklahoma

Roberts said the invasive species has been found in all 77 Oklahoma counties. He said they’re a menace to safety and property.

The Samuel Roberts Noble Research Foundations estimates the population to be as high as 1.6 million across the state and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture reported the animals can carry up to 30 diseases.

According to a news release, the legislation is supported by the NRA, Oklahoma Pork Council, Oklahoma Farm Bureau, OK2A and the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association.