7-29-10 – Governor Bill Richardson issued an executive order that prohibits trapping within the Mexican wolf recovery area in New Mexico. The order bans commercial and recreational trapping for a six-month period beginning on November 1, 2010, requires the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish to undertake a study of which traps and trapping methods most threaten wolves, and directs the Department of Tourism to undertake a study on potential economic benefits of lobo-related ecotourism.

Governor Richardson’s action demonstrates a momentous step at a crucial moment for the Mexican wolf program. The Mexican Wolf recovery effort has taken a significant hit in recent weeks with the illegal killing of several wolves. With fewer than 40 Mexican wolves currently living in the wild, the future of this critically endangered species needs more advocates like Governor Richardson taking action.

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