Don’t feed the animals! Gila County has officially banned the feeding all wildlife, citing the concern for public health, safety and the importance of protecting wildlife.

Last week, the Gila County Board of Supervisors approved a new county-wide ban on feeding the wildlife, with the exception of backyard bird feeders that squirrels typically get into.

As defined by the new county ordinance, feeding is defined as placing edible materials in a location that entices wildlife to eat it, including food byproducts, waste, or garbage. The ordinance includes not enticing or feeding wildlife with fruits, vegetables, salt licks, or hay bales. The ordinance applies to all areas in any Federal, State, or National Park Lands in Gila County.

The law will not apply to any agricultural needs for livestock and farming.

The county felt like it had grown into a public safety issue. Animal Control Officers have stated that Pine and Strawberry residents have reported a huge increase in the elk herd, resulting in problems with residents. The ordinance developed from many complaints from those residents, who overwhelmed Supervisor Steve Christensen with complaints about salt blocks and feeding stations maintained by neighbors.

The county has an ordinance restricting the feeding of bears and also disposing of trash and food waste in reckless” or “negligent ways that attracts bears. The ordinance will cover disposing of food in trash cans that aren’t secured against wildlife.

Animal control officer or peace officer will be responsible for issuing citations which can be up to $500 if a violation is witnessed.