Bill aims to end hunting of mountain lions

Hunters could no longer target mountain lions under a bill heard by the Natural Resources Committee Jan. 29.

LB671, introduced by Omaha Sen. Ernie Chambers, would repeal the law passed in 2012 that authorizes the state Game and Parks Commission to hold a mountain lion hunting season. Chambers said the Commission has estimated there are between 15 and 22 mountain lions in the state.

“When you put out several hundred permits, you’re not talking about hunting. You’re talking about eradicating,” he said. “I will do all I can to prevent the extermination of any species of any animal in this state.”

The bill also would eliminate limited permits currently issued to farmers and ranchers to kill mountain lions preying on their livestock or poultry.

Rancher Alvin Guenther testified in support of the bill. He said the original legislation was drafted because of inaccurate information.

“I have hunted most of my entire life and I have gained a very deep appreciation for the magnificent resources of our great state,” he said. “Much of this law that has been enacted has been because of hyperbole and fear of an animal indigenous to the land.”

Retired University of Nebraska professor Paul Johnsgard also supported the bill, saying that the hunting season is not reducing human and mountain lion contact.

“In the states which have allowed hunting seasons, it’s been found that the incidence of harmful contacts between humans and mountain lions actually increases,” Johnsgard testified. “We’re not ameliorating or reducing any perceived dangers from mountain lions.”

Dean Forney, representing Forney Ranch, opposed the bill, saying the hunting season was never intended to eradicate the population.

“If [Game and Parks] doesn’t manage the mountain lion population, you’re going to decimate the deer, bighorn sheep, turkey and elk populations,” he said. “It would be irresponsible not to permit Game and Parks to manage all wildlife, using hunting seasons as a tool.”

Nebraska Big Game Society representative Henry Rick Brandt also opposed the bill. He said it is crucial to have a management plan in place, including the use of hunting seasons.

“Some day mountain lions will be a problem and it’s good to have someone competent to manage them,” he said.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Director Jim Douglas testified in a neutral capacity. He said the Commission always is open to additional consideration of game management polices.

“We realize that the hunting of mountain lions is a controversial topic,” Douglas said. “Our intent has always been to manage populations over time and with consideration given to social acceptance, which is always changing.”

The committee took no immediate action on the bill.