Van Drew Bill Authorizing the use of Propane-Powered Noise Making Devices as a Method of Wildlife Control Advances

TRENTON – A bill sponsored by Senator Jeff Van Drew that would clarify existing law by expressly permitting the use of a propane-powered noise making device as a non-lethal form of wildlife control on agricultural land passed the Senate Economic Growth Committee today.

“We want to erase any worries our farmers may have over potential conflicts with their municipalities and neighbors from the use of these devices,” said Senator Van Drew (D-Atlantic/Cape May/Cumberland).  “Providing clarification under existing law would benefit our farmers as they protect their property and crops from potential damage by wildlife.”

The bill, S-1391, would protect farmers from municipal ordinances that restrict such devices and civil actions brought by neighbors who consider the devices a nuisance. The State Fish and Game Code permits the use certain noise making devices to scare off birds and other animals to prevent them from causing damage and destruction of crops and other property.

The bill was released from committee by a vote of 5-0, and now heads to the full Senate for further consideration.