Mississippi agriculture officials will soon accept a new round of applications for the state’s Wild Hog Control Program to help private property owners fight invasive pests. From Aug. 1–15, landowners and managers across all 82 counties can apply through the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) to receive “smart” traps, technical guidance, and operational training. Wild hogs cause an estimated $60 million in agricultural damage across Mississippi each year. “They destroy crops, damage pastures and personal property, and create problems for farmers and landowners,” said Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson. “Our program gives landowners access to proven trapping equipment… to better protect their property and livelihoods.”