Hi all,
So if you followed any of my recent posts, you know that we're trying to start buck management on our property of 600 acres in central WV. Well one of the main issues is that we have poachers moving onto our property and killing bucks while we aren't there (property is around 1.5 hrs from where I reside). Well over the past few nights we have pictures of some guy at 3:55 am on our property with a rifle and a night vision scope. We know exactly who it is, confronted him, and he claims he was "hunting coyotes". My question is: is there anything that can be done? Is a picture from a game cam enough to give to a game warden?
Thanks!
A shovel.....or backhoe.......and sack of lime cures the issue permanently....... Well, of course, I'm kidding.
Know of several friends that have had similar issues. Locals think they own hunting rights to the whole county, especially that land owned by "city dudes." Locals often grow up hunting property they actually initially have permission to hunt from owner, but ignore the change of ownership thinking once able/always able to hunt/trespass. One issue to be aware of and consider ramifications is locals are there all the time while you are not. Many are related to Sheriff and Deputies. Unfortunately, in rural areas at times, the Sheriff is the "ring leader." KNOW THE AREA BEFORE YOU BUY!!!
While most rural residents are the heart and soul of this great land, there are those 1%ers that are really a problem.........rural or suburban. Once you begin to take decisive action, major damage, destruction, theft to your assets while gone is a distinct problem. Had an uncle that had his lodge and out buildings, $100K tractors, burned multiple times by locals during his absences. These hillbilly locals are the rural version of city gangs. Many have extensive records, and couldn't care less about other folks' property rights. A few friends have actually sold property and relocated their hunting to more desirable areas. Learn your local personalities, norms. Do your due diligence in buying property. Chose your property with caution before hand.
Not familiar with your state/county laws. While laws only control the law abiding, learn your state/local laws as well as a judge. Is your property posted/marked/fenced to the fullest letter of the law to be able to prosecute trespass? In one state where I own property, there is a Purple Paint Law governing marking property regarding trespass......same weight as an actual fence. Follow the law to the letter for proper marking. Next, establish a relation with the county Sheriff and Dept of Conservation/game law enforcers.....and a "reputable" local attorney (I know it's an oxymoron).....he probably knows the culprits as well as the Sheriff....even a county judge would be a good resource. Establish close relations with neighbors for miles around your property. They are the eyes and ears of your county. Learn how the locals deal with hunting trespass. Some areas view poaching as the local food bank, and a cost of owning property. Follow Sheriff and Game Warden suggestions for dealing with the issue. Be sure you are well within the law.
Wi-fi cameras might be a good tool to alert you of current activity. Maybe consider providing authorities the same access/notification for immediate violation alerts and evidence. Some game authorities will actually set up poaching sting operations and appreciate your cooperation.
