Illinois Farm Bureau Facilitates Wildlife Management with New Permit System

The Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) has once again taken proactive steps to assist livestock producers in managing the challenges posed by black vultures. Recognizing the unique dilemma faced by farmers, where these birds have been known to prey on newborn livestock and birthing mothers, IFB has secured a statewide depredation permit effective from April 1 through March 31, 2025. This initiative, in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), enables producers to apply for a sub-permit, granting them the authority to take necessary actions against up to three birds to protect their livestock.Black vultures are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, making it illegal to harm or kill these birds without a proper permit. The streamlined application process introduced by the IFB, which also requires a class B nuisance wildlife control permit from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, simplifies compliance for producers. This process emphasizes the balance between agricultural needs and wildlife conservation, ensuring that producers can safeguard their livestock while respecting the legal protections of these birds.Tasha Bunting, IFB Director of Commodity Programs and Food Systems, highlighted the importance of this permit in providing a quick and efficient solution for producers facing losses due to wildlife. The simplified procedure allows producers to receive permits in less than two business days, demonstrating IFB’s commitment to supporting the agricultural community’s needs.