By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association (WCA) welcomed the bipartisan approval of the Pet and Livestock Protection Act by the U.S. House of Representatives, calling it an important step forward for cattle producers across Wisconsin and other rural areas.
Introduced by Reps. Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin and Lauren Boebert of Colorado, the legislation reinstates the 2020 rule that removed gray wolves from the federal endangered species list in the lower 48 states and blocks future court challenges to that decision.
WCA leaders say the bill addresses years of uncertainty faced by livestock producers dealing with increasing wolf populations, which have led to livestock losses, financial hardship and emotional strain.
“The passage of this bill is a huge win for cattle producers who have lived for years with uncertainty and real consequences from unmanaged wolf populations,” said WCA President Tressa Lacy.
“Science shows the gray wolf has more than recovered, yet producers have been left without meaningful tools to protect their livelihoods. Today’s vote sends a strong message that Congress is listening to farmers and ranchers who are impacted every day.”
Gray wolves were federally delisted in 2020, but that action was reversed by a court ruling in 2022. Since first being listed under the Endangered Species Act in 1974, wolf populations have surpassed national recovery goals by more than 300 percent.
WCA has consistently supported science-based wildlife management and state-level authority over wolf policy. The organization remains actively involved as the bill advances, with Bob Mitchell representing WCA on the Wisconsin Wolf Advisory Committee.
“Having representation at the table is critical,” Lacy added. “With Bob serving on the Wolf Advisory Committee, WCA is positioned and ready to respond, engage and advocate as we move forward following today’s vote. We will continue working with state and federal partners to ensure livestock producers are protected and rural voices are heard.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: Wisconsin, Government & Policy, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle