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Gov’t gives cattlemen $200K for predator control

The Predator Control program is undergoing a retooling but in the meantime the provincial government has handed the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association $200,000 as an interim measure of support for controlling predatory wildlife.
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(L-R) Alexis Creek rancher Al Madley

The Predator Control program is undergoing a retooling but in the meantime the provincial government has handed the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association $200,000 as an interim measure of support for controlling predatory wildlife.

Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett handed over the funds from the Ministry of Agriculture Friday.

“We might use it to work at programs and maybe work with other groups — trappers to utilize their expertise,” said Kevin Boon, general manager of the BCCA.

The main predator of cattle is the wolf, said Boon, but cougars and bears also pose some problem.

“This is still new to us and unexpected and not what we were asking for,” he said, adding he is appreciative of the funding. “We want to make sure that whatever we do with the money it helps the rancher.”

It is anticipated a new predator control program will be undertaken by the Conservation Officer service under the Ministry of Environment within its existing budget.