How Could Grizzlies Impact NCW Cattle Producers?

The Department of the Interior is looking at introducing grizzly bears in North Central Washington, in an effort to increase bear population nationwide.  How could grizzlies impact those that farmer in the area.  Maggie Nutter with the United States Cattlemen’s Association has a ranch in Montana. She said livestock producers in the Treasure State deal with grizzlies on a fairly regular basis.

She says they will attack livestock, killing cows and yearlings, and while replacing livestock is unfortunate and costly, she’s worried something worse will happen.

“What happens if it’s a grandma going to check her mail in the morning.  What happens up in northern Montana, a lady looks out her window, and there’s a grizzly bear sleeping under the swing set and another one wondering around the yard.  Now is she hadn’t looked out first and just turned the kids out in to the yard for the day, what do you think would have happened?”

Nutter encourages North Central Washington producers to be active in any conversations or open forums that take place.  She said ranchers can’t let those outside of the industry dictate their livelihood.

“Electric Fence is about to become your best friend.  So, I’d say be engaged, be involved, don’t back down.  Stand up for yourself and fight.”

Nutter will be addressing Washington Cattle Producers during a forum in Kettle Falls over the weekend.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com