The Animal Damage Control Act

The Animal Damage Control Act, enacted in 1931, authorized federal agencies to manage and control wildlife that causes damage to agriculture, property, or human health. It allows for the trapping, relocation, or removal of animals like predators or pests that threaten crops, livestock, or public safety. The goal is to balance protecting economic interests and ecosystems while addressing conflicts between wildlife and human activities. The act provides guidelines for humane and effective animal management and emphasizes cooperation among federal, state, and local agencies to reduce wildlife-related problems.