HASKELL–Usually, the words “nuisance” and “appreciate” don’t seem to fit together. But at the Nuisance Wildlife Appreciation Day here March 11, property owners, crop and livestock producers will look at different approaches to management of damage by coyotes, feral hogs and geese.
“We most often link appreciate’ with something we value,” said Greg Kaase, Haskell County agent for agriculture with the Texas Agricultural Extension Service. “But one definition of the word is to judge with heightened perception or understanding,'” he noted. “And while we may not appreciate’ what such wildlife does to our property, this program will help us look at not only the problems but some possibilities for profit in dealing with them.”
The meeting at the Haskell Civic Center is tailored for residents of Haskell, Jones, Knox, Stonewall and Throckmorton counties. Registration opens at 9:30 a.m. and the program is from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Participants will receive four continuing education units toward certification of pesticide applicators.
Persons planning to attend should preregister with Kaase or their local county extension agent by March 2. If they register by then, the cost is $10. Registration at the door will be $20. The registration includes lunch.
In the opening session, Dr. Dale Rollins, Extension Service wildlife specialist from San Angelo, will discuss the concept of nuisance wildlife appreciation and use of an integrated pest management approach to the matter.
In another segment, specialists will explain the biology of nuisance species. Rick Gilliland, of the Texas Animal Damage Control Service at Canyon, will discuss coyotes. Rollins will discuss feral hogs. Jim Ray, biologist with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at Canyon, will discuss geese.
After lunch, Haskell County Judge David Davis will moderate a panel discussion on “Nuisance Wildlife: Silk Purses or Sow’s Ears.” Problems caused by geese will be addressed by Haskell County producer Steve Alsabrook. Other panelists will report on feral hogs and coyotes. Discussing income potential from hunting will be Wyman Meinzer of Benjamin.
Gilliland will demonstrate alternative methods for controlling nuisance wildlife. Rollins will discuss concerns about the use of pesticides and steps to prevent illegal use of pesticides.
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