From Staff Reports
Palo Pinto County’s trapper program is scheduled to begin on Wednesday.
County commissioners formally approved the program May 19.
The county has not had any kind of wild animal control since the early 1990s. Citing economic impact from losing livestock to coyotes and feral hogs, some area farmers and ranchers requested the state-supported and somewhat controversial service.
The Texas AgriLife Extension Service reports there are approximately 2 million feral hogs in Texas, which do an estimated $52 million in damages annually. The feral hogs not only kill and maim livestock such as baby calves, goats and sheep, they also feed on wild game and their eggs, such as quail and turkey.
The county trapper will report directly to county commissioners with a monthly report on where he has been working, the equipment he has out and the results of his efforts.
Participating landowners must sign a form giving the trapper permission to go on their land. Those interested in the service for their property can contact the extension office in Palo Pinto at (940) 659-1228.
