Wisconsin’s Natural Resources Board Hearing is tomorrow so today is the last day they’re are accepting comments on the state’s proposed wolf hunting/trapping season!

Wisconsin’s Proposed Wolf Hunting/Trapping Season:

The Wisconsin Wolf Hunting/Trapping season will begin on 10/15/2012 and continue through the month of February well into wolf breeding season. National Wolfwatcher Coalition (NWC) reports that “most aspects of this wolf hunt season are being dictated by legislation and not by science; proposed measures, such as hunting with dogs and night hunting, are considered particularly inhumane, as well.” Wisconsin’s DNR can dictate the rules and regulations for the hunt and the agency is seeking comments.

If your hackles are up, please consider speaking up!

How to Take Action:

Comments should be submitted to:
• NRB Liaison Laurie Ross, 608-267-7420, laurie.ross@wisconsin.gov
• DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp, 608-267-7556, DNRSecretary@Wisconsin.gov

NWC recommends you urge the DNR to:
• To create zone closures to protect core habitat;
• Prohibit howling as a method to lure wolves;
• Prohibit a dog training season using free ranging wild wolves;
• Prohibit the use of captive animals to train dogs to hunt wolves;
• Prohibit payments for any dogs killed or injured by wolves during the wolf hunting season which runs from 10/15 through February;
• Limit payments for hunting dogs killed or injured by wolves to $200
• Insure the established quota takes into account wolves killed by Wildlife Services, natural mortality, diseases, illegal kills and car collisions;
• Mandate landowners open their lands to hunting and trapping if they receive reimbursement for wolf damage;
• Revise the Wolf Management Plan to reflect current research which suggests Wisconsin has a biological carrying capacity of 700-1000 wolves.