SF1825

This bill proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97B.655, regarding the taking of certain animals causing property damage. The key change is the addition of elk to the list of animals (e.g., raccoons, beavers, bobcats) that landowners or their agents may kill without a permit if the animal is causing damage on their property.

Key provisions: - Landowners or occupants and their agents can take elk, along with other specified animals, without a license in any manner, except using artificial lights during the closed season or poison. - Any traps used by an agent must be properly tagged as required by law. - If a mink, raccoon, bobcat, fox, opossum, muskrat, elk, or beaver is killed under this provision, a conservation officer or Fish and Wildlife Division employee must be notified within 24 hours. - The bill also clarifies that a special permit is not required to take elk that are causing property damage.

The proposed changes allow for more flexibility in managing property damage caused by elk without requiring specific permits from wildlife authorities.