Wolf and elk depredation payments appropriation

This bill appropriates funds for compensation payments to Minnesota farmers and ranchers who suffer livestock losses or property damage from wolves or elk. Specifically, it allocates money for wolf-related livestock destruction (under Minn. Stat. § 3.737) and elk-related crop/fence damage (under Minn. Stat. § 3.7371) in fiscal years 2026-2027. The funding allows the Agriculture Commissioner to use up to $5,000 annually for university extension agent costs in valuing damaged livestock. If claims exceed expected levels, the Commissioner may shift funds between the wolf and elk programs to cover higher demand. The bill directly affects agricultural producers in areas with wolf and elk populations.