EDS: NewsNow.

Bismarck, N.D. (AP) A proposed ballot initiative would ban private hunting preserves in North Dakota.

The preserves allow hunters to shoot game within a fenced area for a fee. North Dakota has more than 100 registered farms that advertise opportunities to hunt deer or elk.

Opponents of private hunting preserves say they're unethical, because animals don't have a chance to run away from hunters.

Secretary of State Al Jaeger must approve the petition for circulation before its backers may begin getting petition signatures. They need at least 12,844 signatures to put the idea on the ballot next year.

The Legislature defeated a proposal to prohibit game farms that charge hunters a fee to go on their property. Lawmakers decided a ban would infringe on landowners' property rights.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 08-15-07 1723CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list