May 29, 2022 - SACRAMENTO – Last week, the California Senate has approved legislation from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, that would help control the state’s growing wild pig population, reducing damage caused by the invasive species to the environment, private property and agriculture.

“My bill is about controlling destructive, non-native wild pigs, which are endangering sensitive habitats, farms and other animals,” Sen. Dodd said.  “We must increase opportunities to hunt them so that we may bring their numbers under control. With this vote we’re a step closer to doing that. Thanks to my Senate colleagues for recognizing their threat to our state.”

California’s wild pig population has soared since various non-native boar and pig breeds were introduced centuries ago. They now can be found in 56 of the 58 counties. Numerous environmental and public health problems are associated with pigs and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife allows year-round pig hunting. Sen. Dodd’s proposal, Senate Bill 856, would lift remaining hunting restrictions allowing for better population control and habitat management.

“All Californians who care about our natural resources should be grateful to Sen. Dodd for his diligent effort in getting this bill passed,” said Eric Sklar, member of the California Fish and Game Commission. “Feral pigs are an invasive species and the cause of significant damage in our state to the environment, private property, agriculture and other wildlife. We need to do everything we can to stop them and this bill is a great start.”

SB 856 has support from wildlife officials and farmers, among other groups. It passed the Senate with overwhelming support. Separately, the Senate approved a second bill from Sen. Dodd, SB 865, which increases the eligibility age for a junior hunting license in California, opening opportunities to participate in outdoor sports to a greater number of young people.

“With cost and opportunity both identified as major barriers to the recruitment of new hunters,” said Bill Gaines, spokesperson for the sponsors. “SB 865 will help to inspire more youth to become life-long hunters by allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to take advantage of an inexpensive junior hunting license and the many special youth hunts made available by DFW and conservation non-profits.”

Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.
Source: Senator Bill Dodd  Photo credit: CDFW