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Bill Summary · LC 4272

Summary of LC 4272: Revise County Predator Control Laws to Include Goats

Overview

This draft bill, titled "Revise county predator control laws to include goats," proposes to amend Montana's existing predator control laws to expand the definition of allowed "predator control" measures to include the use of domestic goats. The bill aims to provide counties with an additional tool to address predator threats to livestock.

Key Provisions

  • Adds "domestic goats" to the definition of allowable "predator control" measures that counties can implement, alongside existing provisions for things like trapping, hunting, and use of poisons.
  • Specifies that counties may authorize the use of domestic goats to help control and deter predators like coyotes, wolves, and mountain lions that threaten livestock.
  • Requires counties to develop guidelines and regulations for the use of domestic goats for predator control, including training requirements for handlers.
  • Provides for state cost-sharing of up to 50% of a county's expenses related to implementing goat-based predator control programs.

Affected Parties

  • County governments in Montana, who would gain the option to employ domestic goats as part of their predator control efforts.
  • Livestock owners and ranchers, who could benefit from expanded predator control measures to protect their herds.
  • Owners and handlers of domestic goats, who may be contracted by counties to provide "green grazing" predator control services.
  • Montana Department of Livestock, which would help oversee the development of regulations for county goat-based predator control programs.

Timeline and Implementation

The bill does not specify an effective date, so it would likely take effect upon the Governor's signature if passed by the legislature. Counties would then have discretion to determine if and when to implement goat-based predator control programs, subject to developing the required guidelines and regulations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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