The following is a press release from California State Senator Bill Dodd
Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, announced today Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed his legislation to help control the state’s growing wild pig population, reducing damage caused by the invasive species to the environment, private property and agriculture.
“I commend the governor for bringing us a step closer to controlling our destructive wild pig population, which is exploding across California,” Sen. Dodd said. “These non-native, feral animals are endangering sensitive habitats, farms and wildlife. By increasing opportunities to hunt them we can reduce the threat to our state.”
California’s wild pig population has soared since various non-native boar and pig breeds were introduced centuries ago. They now can be found in 56 of the 58 counties. Numerous environmental and public health problems are associated with pigs and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife allows year-round pig hunting. Sen. Dodd’s proposal, Senate Bill 856, would lift remaining hunting restrictions allowing for better population control and habitat management.
SB 856 has support from wildlife officials and farmers, among other groups. It passed the Legislature with overwhelming support before it was signed today by Gov. Newsom.
“I am deeply grateful to Sen. Dodd for his tireless efforts to get SB 856 passed,” said Eric Sklar, member of the California Fish and Game Commission. “The unanimous votes in both houses and the governor’s signature are a testament to that effort. The bill will begin the process of reducing the extensive damage to habitat and property from feral pigs.”
