In response to community concerns, the City of Amarillo (COA) is implementing a flexible plan to address the overpopulation of prairie dogs at John Stiff Memorial Park (JSMP).
The plan includes a partnership with the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (WWWRC).
In recent years, the prairie dog colony has grown to an unmanageable level, affecting nearby neighborhoods, park facilities, and other developed areas. In response, COA and WWWRC are working together to relocate prairie dogs to approved host sites.
“We have heard the concerns of our community and are committed to protecting the park for everyone who uses it,” said COA Parks and Recreation Director Michael Kashuba. “At the same time, we want to responsibly manage and preserve local wildlife.”
COA is thankful to WWWRC for its partnership and support in making relocation the primary solution. This effort allows prairie dogs to be safely moved while helping maintain the safety and usability of the park.
Relocation efforts will focus on keeping prairie dogs out of developed areas such as roads, facilities and nearby residential zones. After the prairie dogs are relocated, their burrows will be treated and filled with dirt to safely restore the area for public use. Burrowing owls will continue to be protected in accordance with applicable federal laws to ensure their conservation.