Sponsor Statement for HB 374

"An Act relating the disposition of surplus caribou and moose."

Alaska Law allows for the raising of Bison, Reindeer, and Musk Oxen. This bill adds moose and caribou to this list. Reindeer are genetically compatible to caribou and interbred freely. Caribou have been successfully farmed for years. There have been limited examples of successful moose farming in recent years and this bill will allow research and technology to advance.

Moose and caribou farming in Alaska will provide opportunities for:

• Visitor/tourism viewing and photo opportunities to enhance the tourist/visitor experience.
• Wild meat processing for commercial and subsistence use will allow citizens to supplement their diet; restaurants, hotels, and lodges will be able to offer wild meat to their guests.
• Alaska’s Native people, who live in urban areas, to have an enhanced opportunity to partake in traditional foods.
• Leather production and the value added industries that depend upon tanned hides.
• Educational opportunities for Alaska’s children.

This bill is permissive; total management and oversight rests with the Department.