Senator Bill Dodd
FAIRFIELD — Sen. Bill Dodd announced Friday that Governor Gavin Newsom has signed his legislation to help control the state’s growing feral pig population, reducing the damage invasive species cause to the environment, property private and agriculture.
“I commend the governor for bringing us closer to controlling our destructive feral pig population, which is exploding across California,” Dodd, D-Napa, said in a press release. “These non-native wild animals endanger sensitive habitats, farms and wildlife. By increasing the opportunities to hunt them, we can reduce the threat to our state. »
California’s feral pig population has skyrocketed since various breeds of wild boar and non-native pigs were introduced centuries ago, the statement said. They can now be found in 56 of 58 counties.
Many environmental and public health issues are associated with hogs, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife allows hog hunting year-round. Senate Bill 856 lifts remaining hunting restrictions, allowing for better population control and habitat management, according to the news release.
SB 856 has the support of wildlife officials and farmers, among other groups. It was passed by the Legislative Assembly before being signed by Newsom.
Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all of Solano County and some or all of Yolo, Napa, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties.