Gray wolves: Bill that could allow Michigan hunt wins approval in state Legislature

By Tim Martin |
on December 14, 2012

 
Michigan may soon consider whether to allow a wolf hunt. AP file photo  

LANSING, MI - The new chairman of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission won’t waste any time exploring whether to allow a hunt of gray wolves in the Upper Peninsula.

J.R. Richardson – an NRC member appointed chairman by Gov. Rick Snyder on Thursday – said he wants the Department of Natural Resources to bring an update to the commission at its January meeting.

“This update should include next steps in wolf management in light of legislation declaring the wolf a game species, including recommended opportunities for public comment and government-to-government consultation with the tribes,” Richardson said in a statement provided by the DNR. “All of this would be done consistent with this Commission’s obligations under the law and with the Wolf Management Plan.”

The Michigan Legislature has wrapped up votes to designate the gray wolf as a game animal. The bill is headed to Snyder for his signature after getting final approval by the Senate, 27-11.

The bill would not automatically result in a wolf hunt – but it would clear the way for the state’s Natural Resources Commission to allow one, perhaps as early as 2013. Wolves are no longer on the endangered species list in Michigan.

If a hunt is established, it likely would be relatively small and focused in areas of the Upper Peninsula where farmers say they are having issues with wolves killing livestock.

Richardson, of Ontonagon, is a lifelong resident of the Upper Peninsula. He replaces Tim Nichols of Cadillac as chairman. Nichols, who resigned as chair, remains on the commission.

The Human Society of the United States is among the groups that has said it will oppose a wolf hunt, saying there is no justification for one.

Opinions have been divided on whether Michigan should have a wolf hunt.

source