Written by By Bill Rautenstrauch The Observer
Proposed rules for Union County’s wolf depredation compensation plan will get a look during Wednesday’s regular meeting of the Union County Board of Commissioners.
Union County is participating in the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s wolf depredation compensation program that pays producers for losses attributed to wolves. Compensation for losses would be funded by the ODA.
Earlier this year, the county appointed an advisory committee to help set the parameters for a local program. During Wednesday’s meeting the board will consider a local document that the includes definitions, rules on eligibility, eligible expenses, application review, compensation rates and more.
The document says compensation for death or injury of livestock or working dogs will be paid if adequate grant funds are available. Compensation for mature livestock would be at full market value, while compensation for immature animals would be based on the market value of the animal at the expected time of sale.
If an animal is injured then euthanized, the livestock owner would be compensated at the same rate as a death.
Among proposed eligibility rules, the applicant for compensation must demonstrate that he or she did not unreasonably or purposefully create circumstances that attract wolves or encourage conflict between wolves and livestock or working dogs.
Also, the applicant must demonstrate implementation of best management practices to deter wolves, including reasonable non-lethal methods when practicable.
Those methods would include radio-activated guard devices, non-injurious harassment, fladry, husbandry and range riders.
In order to qualify for missing livestock, producers must document that other possible causes for missing animals have been eliminated.
Wednesday’s meeting gets under way at 9 a.m. in the commissioners conference room, 1106 K Ave. The wolf depredation program is set to be considered at 10 a.m.
Following public comments and concerns, the board is scheduled to meet with Computer Services Director Kathie Powell to discuss a contract. At 9:30 a.m., the panel plans a talk with Planning Director Hanley Jenkins on the renewal of the county’s solid waste refuge collection franchise agreement with City Garbage Service. A court order approving the new contract will be considered.
Under administrative matters, the board will consider a United States Department of Agriculture wildlife services agreement, Title III funding applications, and a resolution concerning national forest safety net payments.
Following the regular session, the board will meet in executive session to discuss labor negotiations.