The South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Commission has approved a new three-year resolution governing depredation hunts used to address wildlife damage complaints across the state.
The updated resolution authorizes the department to issue up to 600 depredation permits annually, along with an additional 200 landowner permits for deer, antelope, and turkeys. The state may also issue up to 100 elk depredation permits each year.
Game, Fish, and Parks officials say depredation hunts are used only as a last resort when wildlife causes significant problems on private property. According to Terrestrial Section Chief John Kanta, the department first attempts to address issues using other methods such as food plots, fencing, netting, and habitat management techniques.
Kanta told commissioners that the specialized hunts are intended to move animals away from stored feed and other areas where damage is occurring, rather than significantly reduce wildlife populations.
Hunters interested in participating can sign up each December for the state’s depredation hunt list. If a hunt becomes necessary, participants are selected through a randomized drawing process.
Officials say the hunts are used sparingly. Game, Fish, and Parks Secretary Kevin Robling noted that only a handful of depredation hunts have been conducted during his five years leading the agency.
Under the resolution, elk depredation hunts may be held year-round when needed, while hunts for deer, turkeys, and pronghorn are limited to the period between August 15th and March 31st.
The new resolution will remain in effect for the next three years.
