Wolf Management Remains A Hot Button Issue in Oregon

What’s the best way for livestock producers in Oregon to protect their investment from the growing number of wolf depredations?  Jerome Rosa, Executive Director of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, said they are working with conservation groups and the Governor’s office to come up with that answer.

Rosa said they are focused on updating the state’s Wolf Plan, which has not seen a major update since 2015.  He said the OCA would like to see three key things: 1.) Additional collars 2.) Local control determining depredations and 3.) Better distribution of wolves statewide.

He said conservationists request that non-lethal management be at the top of all control lists.  Rosa said they understand that stance, appreciate it and even supportive of non-lethal, however.

“It’s a great theory, that works on the west side for instance where it’s like 40 acres or 60 acres or something like that, and you move the flaggery or the devices every 30 days.  But when you get into some of these huge allotments 60,000 acre allotments for example, it is something that is very, very difficult to be able to manage.”

Will the two sides be able to hash out a compromise on the Wolf Plan?

“I’m not very optimistic.  You never know, maybe things will change, but both sides are pretty steadfast on their positions.”

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