I don't feel like joining the debate at this point but I will make a few comments about some false information. I'm a wildlife biologist in central Idaho.....as if that matters.
ORIGINAL: trouthunter
First off, in Idaho, they introduced a different species of wolf. They used Canadian wolves, a larger breed of wolf than the original species that roamed this area. These larger wolves (about 30 to 50 lbs heavier than the original breed) are a more dominant predator that target the larger animals (elk herds). This more dominant breed has taken off in numbers since the introduction in the late 80's, early 90's.
Everything in this paragraph false. I don't know where you got this information but it wasn't from the scientific community involved in the reintroduction.
ORIGINAL: trouthunter
The elk have been hit the hardest by the wolf population boom. The elk herds of Idaho have decreased 30% in size since the re-introduction.
Elk are the primary prey yes. However, I think some people ignore the fact that the elk herds were in decline long before the reintroduction program. Wolves aren't helping the situation, but the blame can't rest solely on them. Habitat issues have been impacting elk since the 80's.
ORIGINAL: trouthunter
Today the Idaho wolf packs are strong and threatening to be overpopulated in the predator to prey ratio.
Again this is total bull. Please guy, educate yourself a little before making statements regarding things you know nothing about.
ORIGINAL: trouthunter
The general public can shoot a wolf only if the wolf threatens you, your family, or your property.
Ok, since the wolf isn't managed as a game animal, can you think of any other instances were you should be able to shoot a wolf? You want to be able to shoot it if you see one chasing an elk? Come on.
ORIGINAL: trouthunter
Finally, one of Idaho's main incomes is from tourism, and a good chunk if that is hunting dollars from the elk hunts. The wolves main prey is elk (remember the 30% decrease in elk population). The economic effects of the wolf re-introduction has already been felt.
Where do you get this 30%? Are you out flying with Fish and Game counting elk? Don't spout off false information in an effort to further your argument.
ORIGINAL: trouthunter
The damage has been done just to appease the minority "environmentalists" who want to hear the cry of the wolf.
Everyone has a different value of wolves and wildlife in general. Just because it doesn't fall in line with your negativistic view of nature doesn't mean it isn't valid. Your not the only person who has a right to value nature, either positivly or negativly.