DNR Removes Wolves from Endangered List
July/August 2009
Gray wolves were removed from Michigan’s list of endangered species on April 27. The DNR’s action, which was not unexpected, followed a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service decision to remove wolves in the Great Lake Region from the federal list of endangered species. In doing so, the Service shifted regulatory authority to the states and tribal agencies.
But the impact of the state and federal delistings will depend on looming court battles. Several animal rights or environmental groups are expected to challenge the federal decision in court over the next few months. If injunctions are granted while the cases are moving through the judicial system, some wolf management practices will be put on hold.
Wolves have made a comeback in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, now numbering at least 600 according to state wildlife biologists. A few wolves have also been confirmed in the Lower Peninsula.
Gray wolves were removed from Michigan’s list of endangered species on April 27. The DNR’s action, which was not unexpected, followed a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service decision to remove wolves in the Great Lake Region from the federal list of endangered species. In doing so, the Service shifted regulatory authority to the states and tribal agencies.
But the impact of the state and federal delistings will depend on looming court battles. Several animal rights or environmental groups are expected to challenge the federal decision in court over the next few months. If injunctions are granted while the cases are moving through the judicial system, some wolf management practices will be put on hold.
Wolves have made a comeback in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, now numbering at least 600 according to state wildlife biologists. A few wolves have also been confirmed in the Lower Peninsula.