OK HB2158

Authorizes the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry to issue permits for managing depredating animals (feral hogs, coyotes, and coyote-dog crossbreeds) using non-fixed wing aircraft on commercial hunting area license lands.

Permits exempt from statewide season regulations and bag limits; permit holders must maintain daily flight logs, notify the Department 24 hours before operations, and file quarterly reports.

Annual permit fee is $200.00; permits valid for one year and renewable; permits can be denied if determined to have deleterious effects on indigenous species.

Violations subject to criminal penalties of $500-$1,500 fine and/or up to 60 days jail time, plus permit revocation for six months; Department may assess administrative penalties up to $10,000 per day of noncompliance.

Amends 29 O.S. 2001, Section 5-203.1 to allow aircraft use for depredating animal management under permit, and requires Department to promulgate emergency rules; effective November 1, 2009.