Revision process begins for Montana Gray Wolf Conservation and Management Plan

Apr 6

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is gearing up to create an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to support the upcoming revision of the agency’s 2003 Montana Gray Wolf Conservation and Management Plan (Wolf Plan).

An updated Wolf Plan will guide the way wolves are managed in Montana for years to come, influencing not only this iconic species, but the individuals, businesses, and communities that depend on wolves.

A wolf in Yellowstone National Park. (Photo NPS)

During this initial scoping period, the Greater Yellowstone Coalition will be asking FWP to include a number of key considerations in their draft EIS. For example, we want to see wolf management strategies that are tailored to specific geographies, eschewing a one-size-fits-all approach to wolf management across the state.

Further, we are asking for the resolution of inconsistencies between current wolf management practices and what is indicated by the best available science. We are also asking for a clearer process for stakeholder engagement around management activities resulting from the plan, and an increase in Tribal input in any management planning. We also want to see FWP meaningfully address potential shortfalls of current wolf monitoring methods through the new Wolf Plan.

Finally, we are requesting that the new EIS examines the impacts of wolf management strategies on other species, such as grizzly bears, and on the local businesses and communities that rely on wolf-driven wildlife tourism.

With the plan revision process now underway, we anticipate seeing a draft EIS and new draft Montana Gray Wolf Conservation and Management Plan released later this year. The release of a new draft Wolf Plan and draft EIS will be a vital opportunity for you to speak up for science-based management and conservation of Montana wolves.

If you care about wolves in Montana, please sign up for our wolf advocacy list below so we can keep you in the loop and let you know when there are critical moments for you to participate in this important process.