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?

Benton County Natural Areas & Parks 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!

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 Jennifer Ward, Natural Resource Coordinator, at 541-760-7613 or Jennifer.Ward@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 Natural Areas & Parks 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.