The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued a statement on Friday saying it is not authorized to implement a wolf harvest season in the Badger State after a U.S. District Court's ruling on February 10 returned wolves to the Federal Endangered Species List.
The agency noted that it is reviewing the ruling to determine how it impacts hunters and trappers who purchased licenses for the fall 2021 wolf hunt.
"Wisconsin's wolf population remains healthy and secure in the state," the statement said. "The department will continue working towards promulgation of rules and the completion of a wolf management plan to guide management decisions... and is reviewing the decision to determine how it impacts Wisconsin's wolf management program."
The DNR said another implication of the ruling involves landowners who are experiencing wolf conflicts. In the past, farmers and other residents could get special permits to lethally removal wolves that pose threats to livestock or people, but those permits are no longer valid. And the training of dogs to track and trail wolves is also prohibited as a result of the judge's decision.
Categories: Wisconsin, Government & Policy, Rural Lifestyle