How is it that Wisconsin wolves have come under the cross-hairs of the anti-wolf brigade, the DNR, and the NRB? Let me count the ways! 1.The DNR is relying on 1999 research data (reviewed again in 2006), which stated that 350 wolves should be the “sustainable” management goal; at that time, approximately 197 gray wolves were counted. In 2006, a wolf population of 528-560 wolves were counted; the DNR then noted that a “biological carrying capacity” for about 500 wolves was indicated, yet still held to the 350 number as their management goal. More recent research has indicated that at the current population of around 800, the wolf population may be leveling off, indicating that they’ve reached their biological carrying capacity. Why no recent revision in the “sustainable management goal by the DNR? 2.Why is the DNR depending on a population model developed by a Ph.D candidate, who asserts that taking 275 wolves in the next wolf hunt from a population of around 800 animals results in a reduction of the wolf population of only 10%-15%? I’m no math genius, but this makes no sense to me – I come up with a 34% reduction in the wolf population using those numbers…as did another biologist I have been in contact with who has co-written and published several peer-reviewed wolf research articles. 3.A “stacked” DNR Wolf Advisory Committee, appointed by DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp (who’s “…proud of the tremendous hunting opportunities our state offers to residents and tourists”), consisting of 7 anti-wolf representatives, and exactly 1 pro-wolf representative. With that committee composition, the wolf doesn’t stand a chance here in Wisconsin! 4.An ignorant Governor who signed on allowing wolves be hunted by dogs; essentially blessing state-sanctioned dog fighting. 5.An NRB which contains at least one member that has direct ties to the lobbyist of The Wisconsin Bear Hunters Association, which has strongly indicated they want to hunt wolves with dogs. This is cronyism at its best, and totally unethical. 6.A Wisconsin Conservation Congress Wolf Advisory Committee - those “common folk” who are supposed to represent the citizens of their counties – by and large consist of hunters, many of whom have no knowledge of the gray wolf outside of fairy tales and urban legends. Incidentally, non-hunter stakeholders outnumber hunters in Wisconsin by a wide percentage gap. Apparently, the drive to continue with the wolf kill in this state (and others) is far from scientifically based, as has been pointed out by scientists, editorialists, and those with extensive knowledge of the gray wolf. Politics – much of it underhanded, non-transparent, and ugly – is leading to the near-sighted mismanagement of the wolf in Wisconsin, and this state should be ashamed of itself. Lizzie
Posted on: Fri, 14 Jun 2013 20:10:42 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015