Feds change rules so farmers can kill geese faster

By STEVE SZKOTAK Associated Press Writer

CHARLES CITY, Va. (AP) - Few things are more frustrating for farmers than geese descending on a freshly planted field to feast on soybean or corn shoots.

For years, farmers could only attempt to shoo the birds or seek federal approval to kill them to protect their crops. But by the time federal approval arrived, often two months later, the geese had filled their bellies and moved on.

Now, farmers in some states may be able to take action more quickly.

The U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife has given 41 states the right to decide whether lethal means are needed to protect crops. State officials and farmers say that means decisions should be made more quickly.

The states with authority are primarily in the Atlantic, Central and Mississippi flyways.