Conservation Group Supports Removing Great Lakes Wolves from Endangered Species List
Great Lakes wolves are an Endangered Species Act success story
(01/29/2007) - Washington, D.C. -- Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) announced they will be removing the Great Lakes population of gray wolves from the federal endangered species list, demonstrating the successful recovery of this unique species under the Endangered Species Act."The Great Lakes gray wolf is a classic Endangered Species Act success story. The protections of the act and careful stewardship by the states in the region have combined to bring this beautiful and critically important creature back from the edge of extinction," said Rodger Schlickeisen, president of Defenders of Wildlife. "This tremendous accomplishment is testimony to America’s commitment to conserving our natural heritage for future generations and a great example of just how vital the Endangered Species Act is to that effort."
The gray wolves of the Great Lakes region were placed on the list of endangered species in 1974. Since that time, the protections of the Endangered Species Act and rigorous conservation measures by state authorities in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan have increased wolf population numbers beyond original recovery goals. In Minnesota, there are about 3,000 wolves, up from fewer than 1,000 when the wolf was first listed. Wolf populations in Wisconsin and Michigan had been completely wiped out when wolves were first listed, but today Wisconsin is home to more than 465 wolves and Michigan has approximately 434 wolves within its borders.
"The Great Lakes states must continue their commitment to the long-term survival of wolves after federal protections are removed," said Schlickeisen. "With proper stewardship from the states, we can ensure that generations to come will be able to enjoy this treasured creature."
Defenders of Wildlife has worked with local and federal agencies, including the Wisconsin Wolf Stakeholders and Michigan Wolf Roundtable, to promote wolf recovery in the Great Lakes. Defenders sponsors The Bailey Wildlife Foundation Proactive Carnivore Conservation Fund, which supports the use of non-lethal measures to reduce livestock-wolf conflicts. Preventative animal husbandry practices, including use of livestock guard dogs, electric night pens, fladry fencing, and other methods have proved remarkably effective. Additionally, Defenders contributed $5,000 to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to go toward compensating ranchers for confirmed livestock losses caused by wolves.
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Defenders of Wildlife is recognized as one of the nation's most progressive advocates for wildlife and its habitat. With more than 500,000 members and supporters, Defenders of Wildlife is an effective leader on endangered species issues. For more information, visit www.defenders.org.
Contact(s):
Rebecca Greenberg, (202) 772-3217
