BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — Idaho Fish and Game is taking action to address a growing elk population that has been causing significant agricultural damage west of Emmett. In spring and summer 2026, the department plans to implement a strategy combining translocation and lethal removal to manage about 100 nonmigratory elk on private land.
The elk herd, which has expanded to 350 animals over the past five years, has been a persistent issue despite efforts by hunters, landowners, and Fish and Game staff to control their numbers. Last year, the damage to agricultural land in the area exceeded $1 million, yet landowners received only about 35% of their reported losses in compensation.
The reimbursement shortfall was attributed to two claims surpassing the single-claim payment cap of $125,000 set by state law. Additionally, the total statewide claims last year exceeded the Fish and Game’s fund for depredation payments, leading to the proration of claims. The targeted elk reside year-round on land owned by five private landowners.