Volunteer Hog Trappers Sought

The Michigan Wildlife Conservancy is seeking volunteers for its Michigan Wild Hog Removal Program. The program aims to develop a network of trained volunteers who can work with biologists and technicians in a widespread hog elimination effort. The goal of the program is to have 90 wild hog traps available for use by 2011.

Citizens interested in volunteering should contact the Conservancy by phone at 517-641-7677 or via email at wildlife@miwildlife.org for more information and to arrange for training. A GROUP TRAINING SESSION WILL BE HELD AT THE BENGEL WILDLIFE CENTER, HEADQUARTERS OF THE CONSERVANCY ON Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at 6:00-9:30 p.m. However, there will also be training opportunities at other times and places.

Ideally, volunteers for the Michigan Hog Removal Program should have a strong hunting and/or trapping background, reliable transportation including access to a pick-up truck or small trailer, and the time (1-2 hours) daily during daylight to check traps. Volunteers may be able to work in pairs so that partners can check traps when the other is unavailable. Volunteers should also feel comfortable explaining the program to landowners and requesting access for trapping.

Volunteers must be 18 years or older and a have valid drivers and hunting licenses. Volunteers will usually not be reimbursed for travel and /or incidental expenses association with their work in the program.

Report All Wild Hogs

The Wildlife Conservancy is asking citizens to report the presence of wild hogs to USDA Wildlife Services at 517-336-1928 or via email at timothy.s.wilson@aphis.usda.gov. Wild hogs are nomadic, that is, they don't stay long in any location. So, it is important that citizens report wild hogs immediately when they spot animals or see hog sign.