Photo by Jeff Clemens
For the past couple of weeks, numerous homeowners and drivers along SR 105 just outside Raymond have seen a large herd of elk moving around the area. Some reports have counted around 80-90 elks in the heard. Many residents have been startled as the herd stampedes through their properties during the later evening hours. Both drivers and residents are encouraged to keep a lookout as the herd continues to move.
More and more on the move
Another herd has been seen moving across US 101 near North River Road during the morning and evening hours snarling traffic at times. A few smaller herds have been getting pretty active along SR 6 from Menlo out to the Frances area. Motorists have been able to observe the herds by pulling off the roadway and watch them trounce around in fields. Herds in the Smith Creek and Butte Creek Road areas have always been quite active as morning and evening drives have yielded many sightings.
Vehicles vs. Elk
A number of accidents near the US 101 and SR 107 interchange just past Clark's Restaurant have occurred with vehicles vs. elk. Residents are able to secure a salvage permit from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife to harvest the meat of an elk or deer killed during an accident.
Drivers are reminded to not intentionally drive into an elk or deer. Also try to avoid an accident by slowing down and allowing the animals to cross roads safely.
Hitting one on purpose can come with a hefty fine and a stint in jail as well as a wrecked vehicle. The permit to salvage roadkill deer and elk can be found at wdfw.wa.gov and is free. All salvagers must submit a completed form within 24 hours of harvesting the animal.