Money Cut for Minnesota Wolf Management!

[farmdude01]

DULUTH, Minn. (AP) — The federal program that controls wolves that attack or threaten farm animals or pets in Minnesota is in peril because of budget cuts by Congress.

Friday's budget agreement in the U.S. Congress effectively eliminates money for the USDA's Wildlife Services program.

The director for the program in Minnesota, Gary Nohrenberg, sent an e-mail to state Department of Natural Resources and Department of Agriculture officials saying that the program's operations are "in effect on a day-by-day basis."

State DNR officials tell the Duluth News Tribune they'll seek the help of the Minnesota congressional delegation in finding money to continue wolf-depredation control.

The program lethally traps or shoots wolves that have attacked livestock or pets. In 2010, Hart's office investigated 272 wolf complaints and lethally trapped or shot 192 wolves.

[Lunkerdog]

Yup, I read this last week in a local publication (The Outdoor News).

In the article on of the big shot MNDNR officials stated that if the funding for this program is cut the wolves should be de-listed here in MN.

Here in MN. the wolves are on the protected list. Back in the mid 90's when they were still on the endangered list they used to live trap them, and relocate them rather then kill them.

I should also add that this budget cut comes during the programs busiest time. It's calving season, the time of year when a largest share of the funds are used.

Facing huge budget cuts of our own, I don't see the state stepping up to cover the program. Which if fine by me, I'm hoping that the state will open a season on them. The wolves have been losing a lot of their fear of humans, and are getting very bold. After they came in for my dogs a month ago, I've been itching for a shot at them.

[sconnyhunter]

We/re having the same problems here in Wis.
With rumors of similar legislation to de-list wolves and possibly begin a harvest season for wolves.

[falcon]

The program lethally traps or shoots wolves that have attacked livestock or pets. In 2010, Hart's office investigated 272 wolf complaints and lethally trapped or shot 192 wolves.

Problem is that the wolf control program is staffed with public employees and it costs a lot of money. It's a bureaucratic thing.

What's wrong with allowing farmers and hunters to shoot wolves?