Klamath Falls, Ore. – One of the more unusual items coming up on next month’s primary ballot in Klamath County is a measure to fund a county trapper.
Cattle rancher Jason Chapman says the concept of a county trapper is nothing new, “We’ve had a predatory animal control specialist in Klamath County for over 80 years now.”
Klamath County trapper Chuck Cleland notes that several species can pose a threat to humans, livestock, or crops, “Beavers, rock chucks, pack rats, raccoons, starlings, pigeons, ravens, badgers, coyotes, mountain lions, and bears.”
The measure would create a tax district to fund the trapper, as the county can no longer fund the position. “If it doesn’t pass, we will lose our trapper program here in Klamath County,” said Chapman.
If the measure passes, taxes on a $100,000 property would go up by about $8 a year.
Sheep farmer Paul Lewis says predators come at a much higher cost, “Every kill cost me between 600 and 900 dollars.”
The measure is only on the ballot in rural areas of Klamath County. The city of Klamath Falls, Keno, and the Running ‘Y’ would not be included in the district.
If passed, the measure would raise about $106,000 a year. It currently costs about $86,000 to fund the trapper position, which includes gas, equipment, and other supplies.
The Klamath County Commissioners voted in February to place the measure on the ballot.
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