Some western South Dakota landowners want changes made to elk depredation hunts.
The hunts are aimed at thinning wild elk that damage hay fields or compete with cattle for scarce winter forage. State wildlife officials allow licensed hunters who didn't get an elk during the regular fall hunting season to take part in the depredation hunts.
Game, Fish and Parks commissioner and private rancher Scott Phillips said the hunts haven't been up to the task. He favors using conservation officers or sharpshooters to deal with problem elk.
Commissioner Jim Spies is skeptical of the idea, saying it would send a negative message to hunters.
Game, Fish and Parks Secretary Kelly Hepler says the depredation hunts might need to be changed, but nothing has been decided yet.
The hunts are aimed at thinning wild elk that damage hay fields or compete with cattle for scarce winter forage. State wildlife officials allow licensed hunters who didn't get an elk during the regular fall hunting season to take part in the depredation hunts.
Game, Fish and Parks commissioner and private rancher Scott Phillips said the hunts haven't been up to the task. He favors using conservation officers or sharpshooters to deal with problem elk.
Commissioner Jim Spies is skeptical of the idea, saying it would send a negative message to hunters.
Game, Fish and Parks Secretary Kelly Hepler says the depredation hunts might need to be changed, but nothing has been decided yet.