Alsatan,
Frankly, I don't even understand the idea of reintroducing wolves with the provision that they be controlled and kept in check. This is like reintroducing smallpox with the provision that we try to limit the damages caused thereby.
Al, that is W-A-Y too much common sense for this discussion. You added the proviso "I admit to being pretty clueless...." I don't think you are clueless at all; just way ahead of most the pack (no pun intended).
IMHO, the wolf reintroduction folks are effectively "chopping a hole in the bottom of the big game hunting life boat" and my biggest surprise has been the number of hunters cheering them on.
In answer to your question as to "why" it was concluded that wolf re-introduction was a good idea, I'm sure you're gonna hear some good ones. Underneath the scientific glitz and rationale lies an underlying sentiment (that you touched on) of a large portion of the American public residing in their "lands far, far away"....
** Why those little woolfies are sooo cute!
** Those woolfie burning yellow eyes are just sooo cool!
** That woolfie howl is just sooo neat!
** Last but not least, most Americans too damn cheap to drive to Canada to get a "woolfie fix" so they want them moved closer, just so long as it is not in THEIR back yard!
A classic case of falling in love with a dream without considering (or even caring about) the "on the ground" realities.
Wolves and Smallpox, now it is going to get really good as someone explains how we need smallpox to lead a complete and environmentally balanced life!
Interestingly some big game hunters STILL don't realize they are sliding into deep do-do!
"Somehow, I told you so just doesn't cut it!"
-- Famous Black Guy Action Hero
Good Luck With That.....
EKM