Kansas Lawmakers Threaten to Cut Wildlife Funding Over Deer Baiting Ban
A lawmaker in Kansas has threatened to retaliate against the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks if they ban deer baiting to slow the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD). Rep. Lewis Bloom, a Republican and farmer, warned that the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, which he is a member of, would strip the agency of $1 million in funding if they proceed with the ban.
Bloom’s threats were voiced on behalf of himself and Rep. Ken Corbet, the committee chair, who owns a hunting lodge that charges $1,000 per person per day for deer hunts.
“We have the votes to do this,” Bloom stated. “If you consider banning baiting, we’re going to take $1 million off your budget immediately, and then we will go through every line item and cut as much as we can find.”
Supporters of the baiting ban are concerned about the ethics of Corbet’s position and argue that the move is an infringement on personal freedom. The debate revolves around the scientific evidence that shows deer baiting contributes to the transmission of CWD and other diseases due to increased deer congregations around bait piles.
Baiting is already prohibited on public land in Kansas, and cooperation from private landowners is crucial for the state’s CWD response. However, Bloom believes that KDWP is in no position to dictate habitat management since the areas they oversee are allegedly poorly maintained.
Opponents of the bait ban argue that it is impossible to prevent deer from coming into contact with each other and exchanging bodily fluids. CWD prions can live in the soil for years, even after the removal of attractants. Additionally, the economic impact of banning baiting, a significant source of income for landowners and the state, presents further complexities.
Although a formal proposal for a Kansas bait ban has yet to be introduced, KDWP will continue to consider the idea while Bloom’s intentions regarding agency punishment remain unclear. KDWP Secretary Brad Loveless emphasized the importance of managing the state’s natural resources based on scientific data and striking a balance between wildlife conservation and user interests.
A skilled hunter, dedicated conservationist, and advocate for ethical practices. Respected in the hunting community, he balances human activity with environmental preservation.