Tucson, Arizona – Federal Protection of Grey Wolves Under Review

Kochise County officials have recently addressed public concerns regarding the federal protection of grey wolves in Mexico.

During a two-hour session, nearly 50 people shared their thoughts. There’s a strong likelihood that a resolution will be proposed in the next few weeks, advocating for state control over the wolf population.

Many ranchers are urging the state’s game and fish department to take on the management of these wolves and ensure full compensation for livestock losses due to wolf attacks. This reflects a commitment made nearly 30 years ago by Frank Antenoli, when the reintroduction program kicked off in 1998.

Since the reintroduction began, the population of at-risk Mexican grey wolves has risen to several hundred. However, discussions the board had on Tuesday night revealed concerns regarding whether this number is sustainable.

William M. Riggs IV expressed during the meeting, “In Kochise County, there is no prey base to support wolf packs.” He argued that the measures being considered are geared more towards the interests of private companies looking to profit from wolf management rather than ensuring coexistence with wildlife.

He added, “The ranchers might not be as hostile towards wolves as it seems, but it’s understandable why they’re frustrated — the situation is quite challenging for them.”

Antenoli mentioned that the resolution under discussion would aim for state control of the grey wolves, full compensation for ranchers, and a reconsideration of evidence needed to prove wolf attacks on livestock.

Right now, bite marks are required to prove a wolf attack, yet sometimes, it’s difficult to determine whether a cow was taken by a wolf or other predators. This creates tension and raises questions about ongoing control efforts.

“It’s not possible for everyone to get everything they want,” Antenoli noted. “But if ranchers receive compensation and their concerns are acknowledged, it might be feasible to limit wolf recovery areas and manage them effectively.”

Currently, the recovery area is likely to shift away from Kochise County, and Arizona’s game and fish department may permit wolf hunting, complicating matters for ranchers. Both sides are voicing their worries.

Riggs pointed out, “Historically, there have been no wolf packs here. My family can attest to that through generations.”

Tuell encouraged ranchers to coexist with the wolves, suggesting they learn about available funding and press both state and federal governments to fully support compensation programs for livestock losses.

If the resolution gains approval in early June, it will move on to the state legislature and to the federal secretaries of interior and agriculture.

Antenoli also stated that Kochise County attorneys are looking into the possibility of joining other counties in a class-action lawsuit against the federal government regarding these policy changes.