PERCEPTIONS OF UTAH ALFALFA GROWERS ABOUT WILDLIFE DAMAGE TO THEIR HAY CROPS - IMPLICATIONS FOR MANAGING WILDLIFE ON PRIVATE LAND

We conducted a survey of Utah alfalfa (Medicago sativa) growers in 199 3 to identify wildlife damage problems to hay crops. Such surveys can provide wildlife managers with important insights regarding landowners ' wildlife damage management concerns and needs. Pocket gophers (Thomo mys spp.) and mule deer (Odecoileus hemionus) were perceived by grower s as causing the most damage. Respondents reported a total annual loss of $350,000 or $24.79/ha (2.8% of the total crop value) because of wi ldlife damage in alfalfa crops. Decreased hay quantity was the most fr equently cited problem caused by wildlife. Compensation and incentive programs were preferred over assistance and information programs for m anaging wildlife damage in alfalfa crops.