Daily News Update, Jan. 15, 2008

February feral hog workshop announced for Bexar County

Texas AgriLife Extension Service will present a feral hog workshop on Feb. 19 at the Bexar Bowling Social Hall in Zuehl.
 

"This workshop is for producers and landowners," said Bryan Davis, AgriLife Extension agent for agriculture in Hays County. "Feral hogs are becoming a growing problem for small landowners, and they create a very real economic concern for the producer."
 

Morning topics will include general knowledge of feral hogs, feral swine biology, population dynamics, hog transportation and holding, diseases, and laws and regulations for hunting. There also will be a research update on feral hogs in Texas.
 

Afternoon sessions will cover agricultural regulations and aspects of feral hog control, including trapping and loading, and hunting feral swine with dogs.
 

There also will be a local landowner panel in the afternoon to discuss concerns and issues relating to feral hogs, said Davis.
 

Several Texas Department of Agriculture pesticide applicator continuing education units will be offered at the program, said Davis. There will be 3.75 units in the general category, one unit in integrated pest management and 1.5 units in laws and regulations.
 

"Some landowners have found a way to capitalize on feral hogs while others have felt a negative economic impact from them," said Jim Gallagher, AgriLife Extension wildlife specialist in Uvalde and a workshop presenter. "We'll present both sides at the workshop."
 

Registration begins at 8 a.m. on the day of the workshop. Pre-registration is $30 per person until Feb. 15 and $40 thereafter, including at the door. The cost includes lunch, refreshments and handouts.
 

For more information, contact the local Extension office. To pre-register, contact the Guadalupe County Extension office at 830/379-1972
 

An agency of the Texas A&M University System, local Extension programs provide practical information and educational outreach in the areas of agriculture and natural resources, 4-H and youth development, family and consumer sciences and community economic development.