Economic Estimates of Wild Hog (Sus scrofa) Damage and Control Among Young Forest Plantations in Alabama

Operating as ecological engineers, the increased distribution and abundance of wild hogs (Sus scrofa) has caused considerable socio-economic impacts. The international scope economic research providing hog damage estimates are often confined to agricultural crops, while among forest plantations lacking. In Alabama, private landowners hold majority timberland acreage less equipped absorb financial losses from than their industrial counterparts. A survey was conducted estimate impact hogs, namely costs control, privately owned forestlands. distributed in summer 2016 a sample 1160 across State. 35% response rate achieved sampled group. Survey results indicated 2013 2015 longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) loblolly taeda) were only species damaged by hogs. Wild 34 13% acres plantations, respectively. At $50.40 per acre, associated with replanting double those for loblolly. suggest southern half Alabama holds largest populations sustained most stands. Consequently, this region invested capital on control methods where average cost technique ranged $12–2750. Additionally, who did not have property willing pay around $14 acre more eradication with. We hope findings will provide better understanding young plantations.