Summary
The Trump administration has instructed Colorado to stop importing gray wolves from Canada for its reintroduction program. Instead, wolves should come from Northern Rockies states, creating potential challenges for Colorado's sourcing plans. This federal directive marks a significant change from the previous administration's approach.
Key Facts
- The Trump administration has directed Colorado to source gray wolves from the Northern Rockies, not from Canada or Alaska.
- Colorado started releasing wolves west of the Continental Divide in 2023, following a voter-approved reintroduction plan from 2020.
- Roughly 30 wolves currently live in Colorado, with a long-term goal of more than 200.
- Colorado's agreement with British Columbia to relocate wolves this winter may be affected by the new federal directive.
- Northern Rockies states like Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming have shown reluctance to provide wolves to Colorado.
- The federal rule designates Colorado's wolf population as "experimental," suggesting but not mandating sourcing from the Northern Rockies.
- Colorado's government is exploring options to continue with the wolf reintroduction this winter, despite federal guidance.
