TFGA highlights exploding wildlife numbers imposing financial strain on farmers

The sustainable management of wildlife in Tasmania is a serious matter for Tasmanian landholders and farmers. Central to managing the issue are property protection permits, which are issued by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE).

Mr Sauer said, "Property Protection Permits are crucial for protecting crops, pastures and farm forestry.

"Permits are subject to rigorous assessment, underpinned by evidence and science, including the need to demonstrate existing control measures landowners undertake, like shooting and game-proof fencing.

"Before anything can be done farm operators are required to obtain permits, which are closely regulated by the NRE Tas.

"The process ensures transparency as work is meticulously recorded, monitored, and publicly accessible online, allowing anyone to review the published results.

While still incurring significant loss and damage "If we didn't take steps to manage wildlife in this state, it's estimated the additional damage caused would cost farmers upwards of $20 million a year," said Mr Sauer.

"We've seen more than 700 fallow deer being put down in the Walls of Jerusalem National Park, more than double the estimated number the NRE anticipated.

The TFGA also supports this action as it clearly demonstrates the increasing population of wildlife which is affecting agricultural production that provides sustainable food, fibre, and pharmaceuticals to the community. Mr Sauer said "Farmers are custodians of the land and fully understand the size of the problem, and nobody likes culling wildlife.

"Speaking with members we know game-proof fencing, will cost them $10-15k per kilometre, but $30k per kilometre for a deer fence to protect their pastures and crop, then there is the ongoing maintenance cost.

One TFGA member said, "In just four days of putting in the control measure, the pasture growth increased by 25%, and without it, I could only run half the amount of stock.