Colorado ag organizations petition to CPW to honor wolf commitments
Posted on October 1, 2024
Source: Farm Progress. The original article is posted here.
The petition asks the CPW Commission to adopt a rule that would pause further wolf introductions until specific wolf-livestock conflict mitigation strategies are fully funded, developed, and implemented. The requested rule changes aim to ensure that CPW is equipped to manage wolf depredation and provide livestock producers with the necessary tools and resources before any wolves are put on the ground.
Since the initial introduction of gray wolves as mandated by Proposition 114, conflicts have arisen, particularly in Grand, Jackson, and Routt Counties, where 24 confirmed livestock deaths have occurred due to wolf depredation in addition to many other missing animals associated with those attacks. The petitioners argue that CPW’s current wolf management program has insufficiently addressed these conflicts, and there should have been significantly more outreach and coordination before the initial release. The petitioning organizations believe that if CPW adheres to the recommendations outlined in the petition, all parties will be better equipped to manage future conflicts. They further emphasized that all measures in the petition should be fully implemented before any additional wolves are released.
Key requests of the petition include:
Definition and management of chronic depredation: The petition seeks the adoption of a clear definition of "chronic depredation," along with mandated lethal take requirements for wolves that consistently prey on livestock.
Proactive development of non-lethal measures: The petition asks for the proactive development, testing, and funding of non-lethal methods to prevent depredations, and to fully fund range riders that are dispatched in the areas potentially affected by wolf introductions. Range riders are individuals who patrol on horseback and in vehicles to intercept and scare away wolves threatening livestock and working dogs. The petition emphasizes the need for a streamlined process that allows producers to easily enroll in these prevention programs.
Vulnerability site assessments: The petitioners request that CPW conduct vulnerability site assessments on potentially impacted operations before any future wolf releases. These assessments will allow CPW to develop a clear understanding of each operation, while ensuring that producers are informed about the full range of non-lethal options available. This collaborative approach will enable CPW and producers to agree on what methods are suitable for each specific operation and which ones may not be effective, promoting tailored solutions for livestock protection.
Rapid response team: A trained rapid response team should be in place and deployed to areas where wolves are actively preying on livestock to mitigate damage before it escalates.
Local collaboration: The petition emphasizes the need for transparent communication and consultation with local county officials, elected officials, communities, and livestock producers before any future wolf releases.
The petitioners are asking the CPW Commission to take up their petition at its October 3rd meeting and seek an opportunity to present their concerns. The petition also requests that this rule be formally considered during the CPW Commission’s November meeting. They are urging the CPW Commission to adopt the proposed rule change before the end of the year, with transparency and ample public input.
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