Lethal action saught to control wolves in Michigan

NEWS RELEASE

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

**************************** DNRE seeks authority to use lethal control on problem wolves

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment has petitioned the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for authority to use lethal methods to control problem wolves.

“The grey wolf has been fully recovered in Michigan, and the state has demonstrated its ability to wisely manage this species,” said DNRE Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason. “We are in the position to make informed, wise decisions in handling individual animals that are causing depredation.

“While it may appear that trapping and relocating problem animals is a solution, research and practice have shown this alternative to be less humane and effective in addressing depredation,” Mason added. “The state is seeking to restore its full authority in addressing wolf depredation, and we strongly encourage the USFWS to move forward with delisting this recovered species.”

The USFWS has published a public notice of the DNRE’s permit in application and will accept public comments on it through May 20.

Citizens who wish to comment may do so by writing:

Regional Director Attn: Peter Fasbender U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services 1 Federal Drive Fort Snelling, MN 5111-4056

Or by email at [email protected]

The DNRE is committed to the conservation, protection, management and accessible use of the state’s environment, natural resources and related economic interests for current and future generations.

For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/dnre.

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