I am actually kind of sorry I even posted this. So many poor and uniformed comments on here. The Elk season in that part of the country is already over 5 months long. The draws for Cow Elk already give out a large number of tags, but Bull is still three point or better. Cow seasons are spread out in one month or so intervals so the already heavy hunting pressure doesn't become totally nuts.
If a farmer has his land posted no Trespassing and doesn't allow hunting he is not eligible for Crop damage funds. For the most part, farmers in that area have been very good about providing permission but with the many hundreds of people that hunt the area, and some of the spectacularly bad stuff that happens that may get tougher as the years go by. More hunters is not the answer, but maybe two Cow tags instead of one and any bull, spike on up will do, would help.
If the Elk population really has increased a whole bunch then it is not fair to the Landowners to bear the brunt of the problems. Most don't mind having Elk around but when there are so many that crops, bales etc start to get heavily damaged they have every right to expect some kind of relief. Making a living ranching or farming is not an easy deal, even for large land holders.
If you don't actually hunt the area and have first hand knowledge, maybe keep you opinions to yourself and don't assume stuff you don't know. If you do hunt the area, talk to the farmers who give you permission, get their views and see if there is something effective and constructive you can do to help.
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