Limit on killing problem wildlife fails

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - A proposal that would have reformed New Mexico's depredation law has been doomed by a House panel.

The legislation would have made it illegal for farmers, ranchers and other landowners to kill big game such as deer, elk and antelope simply for damaging crops.

The measure was tabled by the House Business and Industry Committee, effectively ending its chance of passing this year.

Critics say the legislation would have eliminated one of the few tools landowners have to protect their crops. Property owners across the state long have complained about wildlife overrunning their land and eating crops.

Jeremy Vesbach of the New Mexico Wildlife Federation says it's clear more work needs to be done on the proposal to get the support of agricultural groups.