South Carolina Senate Approves Bill Allowing Hunting of Feral Hogs by Helicopter
South Carolina is on the brink of allowing the hunting of feral hogs by helicopter, a move that could help address the state’s feral hog problem. The South Carolina Senate recently voted to approve a bill that would permit the hunting of feral hogs via helicopter on properties larger than 500 acres.
Representative Bill Hixon, who represents House District 83, which includes North Augusta and southern Edgefield County, introduced the bill. Hixon highlighted the significant impact feral hogs have on farmers in the state, noting that the cost of farming has increased dramatically, making it crucial to address the feral hog population.
The Department of Natural Resources will issue permits for the helicopter hunting of feral hogs, with the South Carolina Wild Hog Task Force estimating that there are approximately 138,000 feral hogs in the state. The bill has received strong support in both the House and the Senate, with overwhelming approval in both chambers.
The bill is now awaiting ratification as an act, after which it will be sent to Governor Henry McMaster for final approval. The large margins of passage in both parts of the General Assembly suggest that there may be enough support to override a potential veto from the governor. If signed into law, the hunting of feral hogs by helicopter could provide a new tool for farmers to manage the feral hog population and protect their crops.
