Ranchers say elk hunt plan will up hay loss

Farmers and ranchers in the northwest and western reaches of Whitman County and adjoining areas of Adams County are concerned about the proposed Fish and Game department draft elk plan and related changes in hunting rules that could impact stock production.

Rick Harwood, Rock Lake area rancher, said he is concerned about a rule change which would eliminate the present late master hunter season for elk in the area.

Harwood said area ranchers see the late season for elk as a means of controlling elk in the Turnbull herd which moves off the game reserve during winter. He noted ranchers expect to...