Bill > HB3124

This bill addresses wildlife conservation and predator management in drought-affected regions of Oregon by directing the State Department of Fish and Wildlife to take several specific actions. The department is required to use established scientific metrics from various federal and state agencies to identify wildlife management units or herd ranges experiencing drought, habitat degradation, and reduced wildlife nutrition. These areas will be targeted if their populations of elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, or mountain goats are significantly below established population goals. The bill mandates that the department review and update these designations every two years, collaborate with federal and local agencies to control predator populations, and continue these efforts until wildlife populations reach predetermined thresholds (80% for elk and mule deer, 90% for other specified species). Additionally, the department is instructed to prioritize conservation efforts on its managed lands, cooperate with various stakeholders including federal agencies, local agencies, nonprofits, and private landowners, and receive an unspecified appropriation from the General Fund to support these efforts. The bill is declared an emergency measure, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage, reflecting the urgent nature of addressing wildlife conservation in drought-stricken areas.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3124