Defenders is one of the lead groups working to improve management of wolves in Alaska. Our work on predator control policy in the state legislature and Board of Game is recognized statewide. And we were major backers of the successful citizen ballot initiatives that halted the wolf-control programs in 1996 and 2000.

Our primary focus today is to prevent state wolf control programs from being applied to federal lands. We also continue to monitor Board of Game wolf proposals, educate the public about predator control policies, and work to provide scientific input into the state’s wildlife management policies.

In 2012 Defenders’ Alaska program launched a wolf and bear coexistence initiative. By cooperating with urban and rural communities, as well as state and federal agencies, we will develop appropriate educational materials and expand the use of wildlife deterrents such as electric fencing with the goal of improving human safety and promoting tolerance of wolves and bears.