New Alberta program to support the exit of wild boar on farms

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.