It appears as if members of the New Mexico State Game Commission based their decision on the Mexican Wolf Reintroduction Program on what was in the best interests of members of the New Mexico State Game Commission.
The commission voted unanimously Thursday during a meeting in Las Cruces to discontinue a partnership with the federal government on the program that has dated back to 1999.
"We have been keeping peace between all people," Commissioner Thomas "Dick" Salopek said. "So, you know what, if both sides are unhappy, then let's suspend it and let the federal government do it. I am frustrated at both sides, especially with the federal government."
To some extent, I can understand. Having spent time talking to passionate advocates on both sides of the issue, I can attest that they can flat wear you out. But that comes with the job of being a game commissioner.
The decision won't have any real impact on the program, said Tom Buckley, a spokesman for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Opponents of the reintroduction program won the battle, but as for the war ... the wolves will remain.
"The program won't change," Buckley said. "It's unfortunate that they determined at this time to step back from the program, but we will still will work toward Mexican wolf reintroduction. It's our mandate."
I can understand the economic impact wolves and other predators pose to local ranchers, and why they would oppose the reintroduction program. It's the hysteria I have a hard time with, the notion that murderous gangs of wolves are roaming western New Mexico and eastern Arizona looking for small children to kill and eat.