Colorado Wildlife Officials Meet With Western Slope Commissioners Over Wolf Reintroduction

State officials make their case

Colorado wildlife officials met with Western Slope county commissioners this week to discuss their plans to reintroduce wolves to the state.

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission voted last year to approve a plan to reintroduce wolves to the western part of the state by the end of 2023. The plan has been met with opposition from some ranchers and other groups who worry about the potential impact on livestock and hunting.

At the meeting this week, wildlife officials presented data to the commissioners showing that wolves have a positive impact on ecosystems. They said wolves help to control deer and elk populations, which can lead to healthier forests and reduce the risk of wildfires.

Local concerns

The commissioners listened to the presentation but remained skeptical of the plan. They said they are concerned about the potential impact on their local economies and way of life.

Gunnison County Commissioner Jonathan Houck said he is worried about the impact on the county's ranching industry. He said wolves could kill livestock and make it more difficult for ranchers to operate their businesses.

Houck said he is also concerned about the impact on tourism. He said hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts may be less likely to visit the area if there are wolves present.

Next steps

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission will meet again in April to consider the comments from the county commissioners. The commission could make changes to the plan based on the feedback.

If the commission approves the plan, wildlife officials will begin the process of capturing and releasing wolves into the wild. The first wolves could be released as early as the end of this year.