Alberta is rolling out new measures to get a handle on wild boar, an invasive species that continues to cause serious damage across rural areas.
The province has introduced and opened applications for the new Wild Boar On-Farm Exit Program, which supports farmers and landowners who want to remove wild boars or transition out of wild boar farming.
Preventing damage
Wild boar have become more than a nuisance in Alberta and many other jurisdictions. They’re a growing threat to livestock operations and the environment.
In Alberta, wild boar can:
- Push out wildlife and disrupt ecosystems by competing for habitat and food.
- Tear up pastures and hay land, damaging forage stands and creating costly repairs.
- Harass cattle, contaminate feed and water sources, and even prey on young livestock.
- Spread diseases that can impact livestock, pets, wildlife, or even people.
- Destroy wetlands and riparian areas, contributing to erosion and water contamination.
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