Panel backs state biologists on wolf kill investigations

A review panel says state wildlife biologists have been thorough in their investigations into suspected wolf-livestock conflicts, and their conclusions are consistent with evidence uncovered at the scene of depredations. The panel's findings are expected to be among the more controversial aspects of the 2011 Oregon Wolf Management Report, which Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife staff will present at the Jan. 6 Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting in Salem. In at least three incidents, USDA Wildlife Services agents determined wolves caused the depredation, while state biologists listed the cause as unknown. Ranchers have said they believe USDA Wildlife Services is more qualified to make the determinations and should be the lead agency in making the call. Under Oregon's wolf management plan, state agents must determine wolves as the cause of depredation before a rancher is eligible for restitution under the state's wolf compensation fund. The review panel found it "problematic" that state and federal biologists in some cases reached different conclusions...more