This case study in Utah was conducted to determine the location and extent of big-game damage to agriculture. Results of this study indicate that losses involve more than the feed or crops consumed by big-game. Operators incurred substantial costs in constructing and maintaining their own fences and in constructing and maintaining fences provided by the division of wildlife resources. Damage may be greatest in orchards. Damage to rangeland is more difficult to measure. Deer grazing may have beneficial effects on plant composition. However, it takes a considerable length of time for the overgrazing by big-game to change plant composition from shrubby plants to the grassy plants preferred by domestic livestock. In the meantime, farmers would incur considerable costs to prevent damage by big-game. Results clearly showed that remuneration did not fully compensate for their losses. Additional research is required to better understand the problems that big-game inflict on agricultural producers. More information is needed on total losses and the long-term benefits and costs of big-game fencing, as well as the utility of current damage payments.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.