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Feral Swine Debate Takes Another Twist In Michigan

LANSING (AP) - Michigan lawmakers are debating how to deal with the wild swine that are causing problems by threatening farms in the state.
Republican Sen. Rick Jones of Grand Ledge says Tuesday he will be introducing legislation that effectively would declare the animals an invasive species.

His measure would put into state law a Department of Natural Resources order that would ban ownership of the animals sometimes imported for game hunting on enclosed ranches.

Critics say fences often can't hold the swine so they break out, eat farm crops and cause other destruction.

The previously issued DNR order would ban ownership unless the Legislature comes up with regulations on breeding and confining the animals before July 8.

Lawmakers may have to choose between banning the animals or regulating facilities.

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

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