The Trump administration has issued a warning to Colorado regarding its wolf management authority. Following more than three years of the state’s wolf reintroduction program, Brian Nesvik, the director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), is demanding detailed reports on the state’s activities since the initial release of wolves in December 2023.
Background of Colorado’s Wolf Reintroduction Program
Colorado initiated its wolf reintroduction project after voters narrowly approved the plan in 2020. This initiative aims to revive a viable gray wolf population that vanished over 80 years ago due to hunting and trapping. The state secured a 10(j) permit, allowing Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to manage a newly introduced wolf population while also granting the state the right to intervene in cases where wolves threaten livestock or human safety.
Federal Government’s Concerns
Nesvik’s letter, sent on December 18, included specific requests that require Colorado to provide:
- A detailed account of wolf management activities.
- A narrative summary of capture and release efforts.
Failure to meet the January 18 deadline could result in the termination of Colorado’s special permit. This action would hinder the state’s efforts to manage the gray wolf population effectively.
Controversy and Management Violations
Ranchers have expressed concerns about the state’s management practices from the beginning. They allege that Colorado has not adhered to the management plan set forth by federal wildlife authorities. Nesvik has highlighted two significant incidents as reasons for potential federal intervention.
Incident Involving Canadian Wolves
In January 2025, Colorado reintroduced a group of 15 wolves captured in British Columbia. This move was deemed outside the parameters of the management plan, which only allows for the reintroduction of wolves from the northern Rocky Mountain region in the continental U.S.
Wolf with History of Livestock Predation
Another issue arose with a young male from the Copper Creek Pack, known for preying on livestock. This wolf was returned to Colorado from New Mexico and subsequently released in Grand County, despite prior predation incidents. Such actions go against CPW’s management recommendations.
Responses from Colorado Officials
Luke Perkins, a spokesperson for CPW, confirmed the agency’s intention to comply with the USFWS request. Governor Jared Polis has reiterated the state’s commitment to the wolf reintroduction and disputes Nesvik’s assertions.
Future of Wolf Management in Colorado
The conflict may further escalate with a legislative bill sponsored by GOP Rep. Lauren Boebert aimed at removing wolves from the U.S. Endangered Species List. If passed, the management authority would revert to the states, granting Colorado the autonomy to manage wolves without federal oversight.
As the situation unfolds, tensions between the state and federal authorities will continue to shape the future of Colorado’s wolf management efforts.
