Animal Law & Policy Clinic Submits Public Comments Supporting Park Service’s Plan to Take Down Tule Elk Fence

Today (Wednesday, June 5) Harvard Law School’s Animal Law & Policy Clinic submitted public comments to the National Park Service (the Park Service), which support the agency’s proposal to remove a fence that has prevented Tule elk in Tomales Point from migrating to access adequate food and water during periods of drought. The comments also call upon the agency to develop a comprehensive, park-wide elk management plan, provide interim supplemental water for the elk for two seasons following removal of the fence and, in the long-term, entirely phase out cattle ranching in Point Reyes National Seashore.

The comments were submitted on behalf of the Clinic’s clients in its ongoing case against the Park Service, local residents Jack Gescheidt and Laura Chariton, and the Animal Legal Defense Fund.

“We are hopeful that this process will finally culminate in the prompt removal of the miles-long, eight-foot-tall fence that has trapped tule elk in Tomales Point for decades, with deadly consequences,” said Rebecca Garverman, Staff Attorney at the Animal Law & Policy Clinic and counsel for the ongoing litigation.

“The Park Service’s proposal to remove the fence is a very positive development, and a step in the right direction. However, our comments also urge the Park Service to develop a comprehensive elk management plan that forbids the use of cruel and inhumane tactics, such as aggressive hazing techniques or lethal culling. It is imperative that the agency protect this vulnerable population of elk and ensure they are not subjected to dangerous and harmful management techniques.”

The Park Service is expected to publish a final decision regarding removal of the fence in August of this year.