29.753 Importation of wild elk. Notwithstanding ss. 95.20 and 95.55 (6) and rules promulgated under those provisions, the department may import and move elk and introduce the elk into Ashland, Bayfield, Jackson, Price, or Sawyer county if all of the following apply:
(1) The elk are taken from the wild and not raised on a farm.
(2) The purpose of importing or moving the elk is to protect, develop, or manage wildlife resources in this state.
(3) The department of agriculture, trade and consumer protection determines that the applicable requirements related to chronic wasting disease under ss. 95.20 and 95.55 (6) are met to the fullest extent possible and practical with wild and free-roaming elk.
(4) The department tests each elk for tuberculosis and brucellosis before importing or moving the elk in accordance with the applicable disease testing requirements of the department of agriculture, trade and consumer protection.
(5) The department does not seek a reduction of road access to public lands in connection with importing, moving, or introducing the elk.
History: 2013 a. 20.