Lending Toolbox

Benton County abounds with fascinating wildlife. But if you’re trying to raise crops or livestock, predatory wildlife can be a real threat. Many landowners want to protect their agricultural investments without killing native wildlife, but what options are available, and will they really work?

The Benton County Public Works Department offers residents an opportunity to try a variety of non-lethal deterrents before purchasing their own. The Agriculture and Wildlife Protection Program (AWPP) Lending Toolbox has lights, noisemakers, a camera and informative literature available for loan so landowners can try before they buy!

Please also visit our Lending Library to borrow from our selection of non-lethal wildlife management method books, or visit our AWPP Webinars page to watch recorded talks from experts in this field!

What non-lethal deterrents are available?

The following items are available for loan:

Critter Gitter

Critter Gitter: Detects heat and motion and responds with a piercing high-pitched sound and bright flashing lights.

Foxlights

Foxlights: Uses a computerized, varying flash with two colors to appear as if someone is patrolling with a flashlight.

Night Guard Solar Lights

Nite Guard Solar Lights: Solar powered, intermittently emits a powerful red flash which leads predators to believe that they have been detected.

Hizap Insulated Fence Extenders

Hizap Insulated Fence Extenders: Makes electric fences higher and wider.

Reconyx Wildlife Camera

Reconyx Wildlife Camera: Night vision camera captures nocturnal animals when they’re active.

The Encyclopedia of Animal Predators and The Predator Paradox

“The Encyclopedia of Animal Predators” and “The Predator Paradox”: Reference books that explain the natural history of predators and the science behind the effectiveness of non-lethal deterrents.

How the Lending Toolbox works

Non-lethal deterrents and reference materials are available for loan for a period of 30 days. To borrow any of the items listed above:

  • Contact Sheanna Steingass, at 541-766-6293 or Sheanna.Steingass@Co.Benton.OR.US to schedule a time to pick up the desired items.
  • Non-lethal deterrents for loan may be picked up at the Benton County Public Works Department at 360 SW Avery Ave, Corvallis OR 97333.  
  • At the time of pick-up, you will sign a liability statement and the items will be signed out to you.