The penalty for transporting or releasing feral swine in Alabama just got stronger. The offense has increased from a class C to a class B misdemeanor, which carries a mandatory fine of $2,500 and possible jail time of up to 180 days. Previously, judges had the discretion to impose a fine of up to $500, but now guilty parties must be fined $2,500.

In Alabama, the feral hog is a game animal with no closed season and no bag limits. Legally hunting them is encouraged, but transporting hogs alive from one area to another and releasing them has been illegal since 1997.

Chief Enforcement Officer Kevin Dodd believes the new fine will be a deterrent. "The damage these animals can cause to property and crops is serious, and illegally transporting and releasing them is a serious offense. Now we have a fine that reflects that," he said.

Feral swine are a threat to both native wildlife and agriculture. They compete with other wildlife for acorns, fruit, tubers and grasses. They are voracious feeders and will consume ground-nesting birds such as turkey poults and quail if presented the opportunity.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that feral swine in the United States cause more than $1.5 billion in damages and control costs each year. They can damage almost any commercial crop by foraging, feeding, chewing, rooting and trampling it. This animal does not spare trees, either. Hogs will disturb newly planted seedlings and damage larger trees by chewing roots or girdling them by continuously rubbing the bark.

To report anyone transporting or releasing feral swine in Alabama, call Operation Game Watch at 800-272-4263.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama's natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.

Contact: Enforcement Section: 334-242-3469