DNR to Take Public Comments on Wolf Management Plan Through End of February

Thursday, January 26th, 2023 -- 8:00 AM

(Raymond Neupert, WRN) The Department of Natural Resources will be taking public comments on the future of the state's wolf management plan next month.

The Department of Natural Resources will be taking public comments on the future of the state's wolf management plan next month. DNR Large Carnivore Specialist Randy Johnson says that while wolves are currently under federal protection, a plan should be in place.
 
"As long as they are federally protected, the state has no authority to implement a wolf season one way or the other. However, again, if history is our teacher here, that status is likely to change at some point in the future."

Johnson says it's important to have everyone's views before moving forward. "Wolves are controversial. A lot of folks have strong opinions. And so it's important that folks have every opportunity to share their thoughts with us."

Johnson says the wolf management plan is more than just a discussion on the wolf hunt.  "I think it's important that folks have a clear understanding of what is and what is, you know, within the authority of the department, and what's in that plan so that they can share their thoughts on that."

An online public hearing will happen next month, and comments are open until the end of February. You can find out more, and add your comments online at  D N R dot W I dot Gov, just search for Wolf Management Plan.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.