APHIS Reviewing M-44 Use

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, or APHIS, has issued interim guidelines on use of M-44 devices while they review use of the predator control mechanism.

Some of the changes are that M-44 devices must be placed at least ½ mile from occupied residences. They also must include signage that is within 15 feet of the device.

M-44s are a tool that many producers and USDA’s Wildlife Service employees use to help ranch and livestock owners from losing animals to predators.

Livestock predations cost ranchers and livestock owners tens of millions of dollars each year according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service.

APHIS is hoping to be done reviewing the changes this fall and use the information gathered to guide new or expanded rule changes regarding M-44 use.

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