Tuesday, SEPTEMBER 16, 2025 |
Photo – Hanna Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Hanna, town officials are preparing to allow residents to shoot rodents on their private properties.
In recent years, Hanna’s prairie dog population has increased, particularly at the town cemetery. The burrowing rodents have dug into coffins and unearthed human remains.
This past April, the Hanna Town Council discussed contacting the Wyoming Game and Fish Department about reintroducing foxes to help control the prairie dog population. The predators were removed years ago following reports of attacks on neighborhood pets.
Instead of reintroducing foxes, the governing body authorized specially trained town employees, including Marshal’s Department deputies, to use air rifles to kill prairie dogs and other burrowing rodents. The measure strictly prohibited residents from participating.
Despite the town’s best efforts, the prairie dogs continued to multiply.
During the September 9th Hanna Town Council meeting, Mayor Charlie George introduced Ordinance 413, allowing residents to dispatch rodents on their properties using air or spring-powered rifles.
Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales explained that the measure allows residents to shoot specific types of rodents and reptiles.
Under Ordinance 413, residents are responsible for identifying their target and ensuring the area beyond it is safe.
The measure passed on first reading. As with all ordinance amendments, Ordinance 413 must be read and approved at three separate public hearings.
