Alberta Imposes New Restrictions on Wild Boar Hunting and Farming
Alberta has introduced new restrictions on wild boar hunting and farming, effective December 1. This decision categorizes wild boars as “pests in all circumstances,” significantly tightening regulations related to their management.
New Regulations on Wild Boar in Alberta
The Alberta government has enacted a ban on the keeping, buying, selling, obtaining, or transporting of wild boars without a permit. This rule also prohibits the establishment of any new wild boar farms in the province.
Changes in Hunting Policies
The hunting and trapping of wild boars is now illegal, except for landowners who may kill the animals on their property. Additionally, anyone who kills a wild boar must report the date, location, and number of animals to the province promptly.
Risks Associated With Wild Boars
Hannah McKenzie, a wild boar specialist with the province, emphasized that these measures are crucial due to the risks posed by wild boar populations. They are known to damage agriculture, threaten ecosystems, and potentially introduce foreign animal diseases.
- African swine fever
- Foot and mouth disease
These diseases could result in major financial impacts on the pork industry and broader livestock sector in Alberta.
Background of Wild Boar in Canada
The term “wild boar” refers to the Eurasian wild pig and its hybrids with domestic swine. Imported to Canada during the late 20th century as livestock, some of these boars became feral, forming populations predominantly in the Prairie provinces.
As their numbers have increased, other jurisdictions have implemented similar wild boar management strategies to mitigate disease transmission and trade implications. For instance, Ontario has begun phasing out certain types of wild boars.
Impact on Local Producers
The Alberta government currently oversees 12 wild boar farms, which can either comply with new regulations or choose to exit the industry. For those opting to leave, the province is offering compensation of $590 per boar, along with additional funds for fencing, amounting to an estimated $2.6 million in total costs.
Industry Responses
Charlotte Shipp, programs manager for Alberta Pork, acknowledged the complexity of the situation for wild boar producers. She noted that these producers also contribute to the wider pork industry, creating challenges for regulation.
Shipp commended the government’s attempts to balance industry viability with the need for stricter wild boar management.
Monitoring Wild Boar Populations
Tracking wild boar numbers is challenging due to their elusive nature. Traditional survey methods often fall short, as these animals tend to be more active at night and prefer dense habitats.
Ryan Brook, an expert on invasive wild boars, has long advocated for stricter regulations. He highlights the ecological damage these animals cause, including soil destruction and contamination of wetlands. Brook also argues that the ban on sport hunting is necessary, as it has not proven effective in controlling populations.
With an average of two litters of six piglets each year, wild boar populations can quickly grow, complicating eradication efforts.
