Nebraska announces special elk depredation season

In Nebraska, several elk herds are using agricultural fields as their playground, damaging crops and property due to trampling and wallows. To combat the issue and hopefully push elk off private land and onto public, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) has approved a special depredation elk hunt that will run July 1 to 31 on private land in Lincoln, Perkins, Keith, Deuel and Garden counties, according to a press release.

Starting today (Monday), residents, nonresidents and landowners owning at least 80 acres within the specified hunting area can purchase a permit at the NGPC office in North Platte or online HERE. Landowners are required to hunt their own land. Permits will cost $20 for general residents, $40 for general nonresidents, $5 for resident landowners and $10 for nonresident landowners.

If you choose to participate in this hunt, please be aware that it will not affect your personal limits or ability to hunt during regular big game season, according to the agency.

Only one elk of either sex is allowed per permit; however, hunters can buy more than one permit. If successful, you will be required to check in your harvest either online or via telephone. 

Click HERE for a map of the hunting areas and more information about the season.