US Fish and Wildlife Service Halts Wolf Transfers from Canada, Alaska to Colorado
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has halted Colorado’s plans to import gray wolves from Canada and Alaska. This decision stems from a letter dated October 10 from Brian Nesvik, director of USFWS, to Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Jeff Davis, the director of Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).
Restrictions on Wolf Transfers
According to Nesvik, any wolves introduced to Colorado must come from specific areas within the contiguous United States, specifically the delisted northern Rocky Mountains (NRM) population. This includes regions in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, Washington, and Utah. The 10(j) rule supports the establishment of these wolves as an experimental population, but it strictly limits their source.
- Idaho
- Montana
- Wyoming
- Eastern Oregon
- Eastern Washington
- North-central Utah
Nesvik emphasized the importance of adhering to the 10(j) rule, stating any attempts by CPW to source wolves from outside the approved regions are violations of this directive. Consequently, he required an immediate cessation of any such efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Colorado’s Response
In a response to USFWS, Colorado Parks and Wildlife confirmed that it aims to adhere to the Colorado Wolf Restoration and Management Plan. The agency is currently assessing the implications of Nesvik’s letter on their ongoing wolf reintroduction efforts.
Interestingly, CPW holds a contract with the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, which permitted an earlier import of 15 wolves. Plans continue to bring in an additional 10 to 15 wolves this winter based on previous arrangements.
Challenges in Sourcing Wolves
Finding suitable gray wolves for transfer has proven to be challenging for Colorado. In 2023, neighboring states like Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming clearly stated they would not allow wolf transfers. While Oregon has tentatively agreed to send wolves in December of this year, concerns have arisen over the condition and behavior of these animals. Some have histories of livestock predation, which contradicts Colorado’s management goals.
Political Developments
The halt in wolf transfers coincides with recent legislative efforts regarding gray wolf populations. A proposal led by U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert aims to delist gray wolves, which has secured initial approval from the House Natural Resources Committee.
| Representative | Party | District |
|---|---|---|
| Lauren Boebert | R | Wellington |
| Jeff Hurd | R | Grand Junction |
| Jeff Crank | R | Colorado Springs |
| Gabe Evans | R | Fort Lupton |
The proposal has faced dissent from some lawmakers. For example, Rep. Jared Huffman raised concerns about the potential negative impact of delisting gray wolves, citing evidence of their vulnerability and risks for increased hunting. If passed, the delisting would occur 60 days post-legislation, while also restricting legal reviews of such decisions.
Future Outlook
The future of gray wolf management in Colorado and surrounding states hangs in the balance. Ongoing negotiations, regulations, and political considerations will shape the path forward for wolf population restoration and management in the region.
