Hunters to cull the elk herd at Hanford? Absolutely! Hunters are the conservationist of wildlife! They pay huge fees for licenses just for the chance to hunt and enjoy the outdoor experience. The elk herd at Hanford is protected from hunting and there are no substantial predators to keep the elk in check so the herd doubles every two to three years.
As this area is a delicate desert region, food becomes scarce in the hot summer and cold winter months, and the elk migrate out onto the surrounding agricultural properties, causing huge amounts of damage to the crops. Then the state Department of fish and Wildlife must then pay thousands of dollars from the license funds to reimburse the farmers for crop damage.
Along with that, the danger to people driving the roadways as the animals move to and from feeding areas becomes extremely hazardous. Check out Richland Rod and Gun Club's game recovery program that processes the animals from accidents along the Hanford highway.
Run properly, the elk hunt at Hanford would benefit all involved and create a great opportunity for hunters and better relationship between landowners and state game officials.
-- Richard Sharp, Kennewick
