The House Appropriations - Government Operations Division meeting on January 30, 2025, focused on a significant funding request aimed at enhancing wildlife services in North Dakota. The committee discussed a proposed allocation of $150,000 intended for predator control efforts, particularly in central and southern regions of the state.

During the meeting, officials explained that the funds would support the operation of a plane recently acquired for wildlife services, which is crucial for effective predator management. The plane, provided by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), was initially purchased to address issues related to feral swine but is now seen as a vital resource for broader predator control activities.

Committee members expressed concerns about previous gaps in service coverage due to a shortage of contracted pilots, which hindered effective management in certain territories. The additional funding is expected to help close these gaps and ensure that predator control efforts can be sustained in areas where they are currently lacking.

The discussion also highlighted the need for clarity regarding the budget allocation, as some members were unsure if the $150,000 request was reflected in the existing budget worksheets. Officials clarified that the request was not yet included in the long sheet but confirmed its importance for the upcoming biennium.

Overall, the meeting underscored the state's commitment to wildlife management and the necessity of adequate funding to support these critical services. The next steps will involve formalizing the funding request and ensuring it is integrated into the state budget for effective implementation.