The Montana Livestock Loss Board has made record payments this year for depredations caused by wolves and grizzly bears.
As of Monday, the state has paid more than $146,700 for the deaths of 133 head of livestock. Up until now, the most expensive year was 2009, with $144,995 paid for the deaths of 370 head of livestock.
The Livestock Loss Board was established in 2007 to address economic losses due to wolf and grizzly bear predation. The money comes from the state general fund and there is some federal money.
Board Executive Director George Edwards says the payments this year are larger because the price of stock in 2009 was half of what it is now. There have been significantly fewer livestock deaths.
Source: Associated Press
