Senate Bill 777 Proposes new wolf compensation rates for Oregon livestock producers

SALEM – A new piece of legislation could overhaul how compensation is provided to Oregon’s Livestock producers in the event of wolf depredations. Senate Bill 777, Relating to the depredation of livestock, would establish that compensation for injured or killed livestock and working dogs be based on fair market factors and recommendations from county advisory committees, in addition to other changes. As the Summary of the bill reads:

“The Act provides that payments for injury to livestock or working dogs must be based on fair market value and other factors. The Act caps payments. The Act removes payment for lost livestock. (Flesch Readability Score: 70.9). 

Provides that compensation for injury to livestock or working dogs under the wolf depredation compensation and financial assistance grant program must be based on fair market value and other factors. Caps compensation at $25,000 per animal. Removes the provision authorizing compensation for missing livestock.”

Section [(C)] (d), subsections (A)–(C) elaborate further on the market compensation rate:

“[(C)] (d) Establish compensation rates for probable or confirmed loss or injury to livestock animals or working dogs due to wolf depredation, of not more than $25,000 per livestock animal or working dog, that are based on [fair market value and] the recommendation of the county advisory committee described in subsection (3)(d) of this section[.] as to fair market value and the following: 

(A) A multiplier of seven times the fair market value of cow calves and yearlings, sheep and goats; 

(B) A multiplier of three times the fair market value of cows not described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph; and 

(C) The fair market value of horses, other livestock not specifically described in this paragraph and working dogs.”

Keep in mind, the bill also implements other stipulations around the usage of non-lethal deterrence practices and the findings by local wolf advisory committees. Please see the full text of the bill attached below for additional details:

The Bill had a recent public reading on Thursday, February 27, with most submitted public testimony in support. No additional readings have been publicly scheduled as of the time of writing. The bill is currently within the Senate Committee. 

Find additional information on the SB777 information page at: https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB777

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