The West Virginia Deer Farmers Association is protesting a state regulation that requires them to build taller fences.

Secretary Chuck Kimble says requiring farmers who raise deer species to raise fences from eight feet to ten feet is an unbearable expense. To Kimble, the Division of Natural Resources is trying to discourage the industry.

DNR Assistant Chief of Wildlife Management Paul Johansen denies that. He says the rule that takes effect January 1 is necessary to ensure that wild and captive deer don't mingle.

Kimble, however, says that the outbreak of chronic wasting disease in Hampshire County was not caused by deer farming.

He also argues that eight feet is enough, noting that dogs once killed five deer that were unable to leap over the fence at his farm.