Change protects wolf release

By Chad Smith

The New Mexico State Game Commission, at their meeting in Espanola on Nov. 13, took action that hunters, hikers and ranchers are applauding since it ensures state control over the reintroduction process for the Mexican gray wolf population.

The commission unanimously approved an amendment to the rule detailing the holding and releasing of a carnivore. The new section states, "The state game commission must review any permit application for the possession or use of any carnivore that is held, possessed or released on private property for the purpose of recovery, reintroduction, conditioning, establishment or re-establishment in New Mexico."

Why is this an important layer of protection for our state's hunters, hikers, bikers and ranchers? Because it makes it illegal for pro-wolf activists to release privately held wolves in our state. Imagine the consequences if you were in the Lincoln National Forest outside of Ruidoso and were not aware of the possibility of wolves, and thus were not vigilant. Your inattention could be fatal.

But who would expect a wolf in that area, 200 miles from Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area, the boundaries of which are currently centered in the Apache-Sitgreaves and Gila National Forests? Pro-wolf activists are not only expecting it, they are advocating for it. At a United States Fish and Wildlife Service meeting held Aug. 13 in Truth or Consequences, changes were proposed to the current Mexican gray wolf re-introduction plan that would change both the habitat and current management guidelines. The designated habitat of the wolf would expand dramatically so that wolves "found" in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) would not be relocated but would be allowed to stay. The MWEPA consists of 60 percent of the state, stretching south from I-40 and across from the California/Arizona line to the New Mexico/Texas line. Not only are wandering wolves in this zone allowed to remain, but at the request of a land-owner, adult wolves can be released on private land. There is no minimum-sized land holdings required for the agreement, and the release can occur without the consent of the land-holder's neighbors.  

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Chad Smith is the CEO of New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau, an 18,000 member organization comprised of farmers and ranchers, and those who are interested in private property rights and a local food supply. NMF&LB is the state's largest, private agricultural organization and was founded in 1917.