PEARCE AMENDMENTS

JUNE 26, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: BRIAN PHILLIPS
202.225.4759, brian.phillips@mail.house.gov

WASHINGTON D.C. - Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the House voted on his amendment to eliminate funding for the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program from the Interior Appropriations Bill.

“I am disappointed more of my colleagues could not see the wisdom in eliminating an unsuccessful, ineffective program that has not only failed to produce results, but also threatens the lives and livelihoods of New Mexicans. We have tried the reintroduction program for 10 years and have seen only growing problems and more wolf - human interactions.

“While I believe that the time has come to concede that we cannot successfully reintroduce wolves into the communities of New Mexico, Congress has not yet reached that view.

“I will continue working to ensure that we are protected from these captive-bred habituated wolves. The Fish and Wildlife Service must take active steps to better manage problem wolves and guarantee that farmers, ranchers, their families and their livestock are not repeatedly stalked and attacked. I will furthermore continue working to educate my colleagues with regards to the problems associated with this program.

“The vote today was a set back, but we will continue to put pressure on those that, to this point, have only wasted tax dollars and created a menace within our communities.”

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