Accepting wolves back into
our landscape, after having eradicated them in the 1920s, should not be
such a challenge. Wolves are an essential part our ecosystem, placed by
nature to keep the system in healthy balance. Nonetheless, we bear
witness to anti-wolf propaganda and false scare tactics that meet
success in influencing governmental decisions that jeopardize a
functional and sustainable wolf population.
It was especially encouraging to attend the recent weekendlong “Speak for Wolves” event in Gardiner. Attendees from all over the U.S. shared their desire to see wolves managed in a manner consistent with nature’s plan — by science and not politics. There were many well-informed speakers and educational films. Wolves were the primary subject, but speakers also touched on other wildlife issues and proven methods to eliminate conflict between livestock and predators. (See “Speak for Wolves” website.)
The dominant message was the importance of relying on science and education to achieve broader acceptance of all species essential to the health of our Montana landscape. We can work together to ensure the wolf can fully return to its place in nature’s beautifully designed scheme. This will require time and our continued dedication to speak out on their behalf.
It was especially encouraging to attend the recent weekendlong “Speak for Wolves” event in Gardiner. Attendees from all over the U.S. shared their desire to see wolves managed in a manner consistent with nature’s plan — by science and not politics. There were many well-informed speakers and educational films. Wolves were the primary subject, but speakers also touched on other wildlife issues and proven methods to eliminate conflict between livestock and predators. (See “Speak for Wolves” website.)
The dominant message was the importance of relying on science and education to achieve broader acceptance of all species essential to the health of our Montana landscape. We can work together to ensure the wolf can fully return to its place in nature’s beautifully designed scheme. This will require time and our continued dedication to speak out on their behalf.