Couldn't stay out of the fray any longer............
99% of all animals to have ever lived on this rock are now extinct. Be it by nature or man. To argue that re-introducing one here or there makes a difference is borderline insane. In the case of the wolf, they still exist in other places. If re-introducing them makes you feel good as person, then there is merit. If it is to re-establish some sort of natural balance, then you are literally "whizzing in the wind". The mumbo jumbo about having some sort of harmonic balance by adding wolves to a place makes me laugh. Why? What does it do? From a practical standpoint it accomplishes nothing. Does it make you feel less guilty about the transgressions visited upon this noble beast by your forefathers? To equate something like this to the near genicide of the Native American is something I personally find abhorent!
Should not our guidance in matters such as these be less vain? We are stewards of this land and it's inhabitants, and as such must make decisions based on our ability as sentient beings. Contrary to opinions proferred previously, we are the apex, the top dog, the big cheese, numero uno when it comes to the food chain. If you are of Christian belief, it even says so in your instruction book.

The majesty and beauty of the wolf is undeniable. But to suggest that they "must" be here is nonsense. Don't you find it interesting that the vast majority of those that want the Wolfback someplace (where ever), don't live in that place? I like beer joints, but please don't put it next door!!! Casino? You bet, but not in our state!
Seems to be a fight a brewing between the states and the Fed on this subject. I for one hope the states win.
When the line gets drawn between what is best for man and his needs versus that of an animal, I will unfailingly be on the side of man.