Texas AgriLife Extension Service offices in Lampasas, Burnet, Llano, Hamilton, Mills, San Saba, and Coryell Counties have teamed up to present a “Feral Hog Appreciation Day,” beginning with registration at 8:15 am on May 14, 2009 in Adamsville, at the Adamsville Community Center. The community center is located in Adamsville, just East of 281 on CR 3750 (turn East off Hwy 281 at the blinking light).

Participants will receive information on feral hogs, including their status and distribution, hog biology, interactions with native wildlife, disease concerns, laws and regulations associated with feral hogs, and information on various control strategies. Dr. Dale Rollins, Texas AgriLife Extension Service Wildlife Specialist, will be the main presenter. Representatives from Wildlife Management Services, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and the Texas Animal Health Commission will also be on hand to speak on their areas of expertise relating to feral hogs. “These appreciation days have been held numerous places around the state, bringing landowners and managers up to date on what is happening in their particular area,” said Jason Byrd, County Extension Agent for Agriculture in Lampasas County. “Feral hogs have definitely arrived in Lampasas and the surrounding counties. Unfortunately, once you have them, they are all but impossible to get rid of. Our aim is to teach producers what tools are available to help them cope with this new factor on our ranges.”

Five continuing education units (CEUs) will be offered for those with a pesticide license (3 General, 1 IPM, and 1 Laws & Regs.) Participants will enjoy a catered BBQ lunch on site. Anyone planning on attending the program is asked to RSVP to the Lampasas County Office (512-556-8271) or at lampasas@ag.tamu.edu by May 11, 2009. This is to ensure an accurate count for lunch. The cost to attend the program is $20 if registered by the May 11 deadline or $30 thereafter. Please feel free to contact the Lampasas County Office with any questions.