Increasing Wolf Numbers A Concern For A Variety Of Groups

According to the latest Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Report, the state’s wolf population continues to grow and spread into new areas.  But more wolves means additional threats livestock and more wolf killings.  Last month’s report documents at least 230 wolves in the state as of the end of 2025, 26 more than the year before.

Sally Compton with Think Wild Central Oregon said federal cuts have limited the implementation of more non-lethal means of protecting livestock.

“Anytime you see these numbers where the wolf populations are increasing and depredations are increasing, what about the resources that we're offering for both the wolves and the landholders? And unfortunately we're actually seeing a decline in that in real time," she said.

Will New State Funds Help With Wolve Issues?

Compton added with the passage of Oregon’s 1.25% for Wildlife Bill, which boosts the state's Transient Lodging Tax, some help is on the way for wolves and landowners alike.

"Part of this funding will provide support for additional coexistence staff for Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife," Compton said.  "We're hoping that part of that can be with wolf coexistence."

The new law, she noted, will also provide funding for counties for non-lethal wolf management grants, and for compensation grants for landholders.  Compton says the bill was a bipartisan effort, supported by conservation groups as well as the Oregon Cattlemen's Association.

Click Here to read ODFW’s Wolf Report.

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