Twin Falls County officials are considering adopting new rules and penalties for ranchers and farmers when their livestock or other large animals escape the confines of fenced fields and wander onto roadways or private property. Supporters say the proposal is intended to streamline how the county holds owners accountable for their livestock and, ultimately, improve public safety for motorists.

"That's a lot of dense weight for a vehicle crash or a motorcycle to run into," Brown said. "And people are injured because of it every year."

The commission delayed a formal vote on the ordinance, but the Times-News reported Friday that a vote could come in the next 10 days.

The ordinance would also help the county recoup costs tied to responding to runaway animals exceeding 25 pounds. Currently, if the county wants to be reimbursed for animal control efforts, it must file a civil action, which can trigger a lengthy and costly court battle against owners who challenge the case.

Under the new ordinance, officers would issue a citation, similar to a traffic offense, that could be adjudicated in a more streamlined, cost-effective manner.

Last week, sheriff deputies responded to a situation near the town of Hollister involving 30 loose cows. Deputies monitored the livestock to make sure none approached busy U.S. Highway 93 until the owner arrived.

While ranchers and dairy farmers don't like the idea of their livestock running loose, some are concerned the ordinance could be used negatively by neighbors.

"Those are our wives, our families, our grandkids that drive those roads, so safety is of paramount importance," said rancher Bill Brockman, a former county commissioner.

Charlie Howell, president of the Magic Valley Cattleman's Association, said his organization supports the public safety goals of the ordinance. But he worries that it lacks the flexibility to give authorities discretion to make judgment calls on whether an offense merits a citation. He suggested warnings for first-time offenders.

But Brown said warnings have been the policy for years and something tougher is needed to send the message.

"We've been giving people warnings for years because we didn't have the teeth to enforce this," he said.

Under the proposal, first-time offenders could be fined up to $50 per animal per day. A second offense within two years could lead to a fine of $100 per animal, per day. A third offense would be classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $1,000 and six months in jail, according to the Times-News. PD

—AP newswire report